Northern Michigan University's new dean of the College of Health Sciences and Professional Studies (CHSPS) is Liz Wuorinen, who had served in the same role on an interim basis since July 2024.
She is responsible for leading four schools, five departments and two centers. She will also "enhance and execute the college's strategic vision, facilitate student success, and lead by example in collaboration, innovation and accountability," stated Provost Anne Dahlman in announcing the appointment.
"I am excited for the opportunity to serve the college in the permanent role of dean," Wuorinen said. "I look forward to working collaboratively on a strategic plan that will guide our future direction, support student success, and strengthen our impact across campus and in the broader community. I am eager to continue building strong relationships across the college, while also advancing interdisciplinary programs both within the college and in partnership with others across the university. I'm especially grateful to be working alongside such a dedicated and talented team, and I'm confident that together we will continue to move the college forward."
Wuorinen has an expansive and well-rounded background in higher education. She taught at large public universities, earned tenure at a private institution, and served in both faculty and administrative leadership positions across colleges of varying sizes.
Before coming to NMU, Wuorinen served as chair of both the Biology and Physical Education Department and the Health and Human Performance Department at Norwich University. She has served as NMU's associate dean of the CHSPS and the director of the School of Health and Human Performance since 2016, and the program coordinator for the health and physical education secondary education and athletic coaching programs since 2018.
Wuorinen holds a bachelor of applied arts in health fitness and health promotion for corporate or clinical settings with a minor in business administration from Central Michigan University; a master of science in exercise science from NMU; and a doctorate in kinesiology from the University of Michigan, specializing in exercise physiology with a focus on exercise endocrinology.