Dear colleagues,
I am pleased to announce that Amber Mollhagen, PhD, LMSW, will join the School of Health Professions as Associate Dean of Student Affairs, effective Monday, July 6, 2026.
Dr. Mollhagen joins us from the University of Houston and brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in higher education, with expertise in student affairs, admissions, enrollment management, and student success initiatives. Her career has centered on supporting students throughout the academic lifecycle and creating student-centered systems that help them succeed from recruitment and admissions through academic progression and degree completion.
Throughout her career, Dr. Mollhagen has secured state and federal funding to develop mentoring, training, and financial support programs that expand access and success for underrepresented students. In addition to her administrative leadership, she is an experienced educator who has taught undergraduate and graduate practicum seminars, as well as macro and clinical practice courses.
Before transitioning to higher education administration, Dr. Mollhagen practiced as a licensed social worker in health care settings. Her experience in interdisciplinary collaboration, counseling, and crisis management continues to inform her approach to student well-being, academic support, and fostering an environment where students can thrive both personally and academically.
Her leadership and dedication to student success have been recognized through numerous honors, including the C.F. McElhinney Award, the highest staff honor awarded by the University of Houston. She has served on the board of the National Deans and Directors of Social Work Admissions and has been recognized by the organization for her contributions to the field.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Mollhagen to SHP. We look forward to the leadership, experience, and student-centered perspective she will bring to our school and our students.
Warm regards,
David L. Vines, PhD, RRT, FAARC, FCCP
Senior Vice President and Dean, School of Health Professions
Catherine L. Scholl, MD Distinguished Chair in Health Professions