The University of North Florida appointed Mei Zhao as dean of the Brooks College of Health, following her tenure as interim dean.
Zhao became interim dean in August 2023, succeeding Curt Lox, who returned to the faculty.
Under Zhao’s leadership, the college achieved a more than 10% increase in student enrollment, launched the Doctor of Health Administration program and secured more than $4.7 million in private funding along with about $1.1 million from the state’s Linking Industry to Nursing Education initiative to support student success and academic innovation.
Additionally, the college’s physical therapy program received a 10-year reaccreditation, reaffirming its status as a top-tier program in the region.
“Dr. Zhao exemplifies the highest values and aspirations of our University in prioritizing groundbreaking research, launching innovative programs, securing critical funding and expanding global engagement,” UNF Provost Karen Patterson said in a May 21 news release.
“I am deeply honored to continue leading the Brooks College of Health and am confident that, together with the BCH’s amazing faculty and staff, we will shape the future of healthcare education, research and service with purpose and passion,” Zhao said in the release.
Zhao joined the UNF faculty in 2004. As chair of the Department of Health Administration, Zhao led the reaccreditation of the Master of Health Administration and Bachelor of Healthcare Management programs through 2030.
She also oversaw the launch of the executive MHA and health informatics programs, expanding access to graduate education for working professionals.
Zhao has authored more than 70 peer-reviewed publications and secured more than $1.5 million in research and education funding, including international awards supporting global health education.
Her academic contributions have received recognition, including the UNF Distinguished Professor Award in 2021, the Most Cited Paper Award in 2024, and the 2019 Edgar C. Hayhow Article of the Year award from the American College of Healthcare Executives.