Lisa L. Dutton, PT, MS ’93, PhD, an alum of 69É«ÇéƬ’s Department of Physical Therapy whose academic career began as an adjunct instructor with the department in the 1990s, will rejoin the university as dean of the College of Health Professions on Aug. 1.

“Rosalind Franklin University holds a special place in my heart, and I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to return as dean of the College of Health Professions,” she said.

Dr. Dutton’s career most recently included a four-year term as dean of health sciences with the Henrietta Schmoll School of Health at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Her tenure at St. Catherine’s included service as associate dean and chair of the Schmoll School of Health (2012-18) and director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program (2011-18), for which she was also a tenured professor.

She will succeed Patrick Knott, PhD, PA-C, who has served as interim dean since August 2021 and guided the college’s 700 students and 100 faculty members.