New dean to lead IUK School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions
Angela Opsahl joins Indiana University Kokomo as dean of the School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions (SNAHP), leading graduate and undergraduate programs in nursing, as well as rehabilitation sciences, radiologic sciences, and applied health sciences and medical coding technology.
Opsahl looks forward to joining IU Kokomo, noting that she grew up in nearby Boone County, and her father was from Howard County.
“I’m just excited for this next step in my professional journey,” she said. “I know that leadership is a privilege and that privilege can influence the lives of all those involved. I’m excited to understand how I can support our faculty, staff, and students. IU Kokomo is a pretty special campus.”
Scott Jones, executive vice chancellor for academic affairs, welcomed Opsahl, noting she has 34 years of experience, including previous administrative and teaching experience at the IU School of Nursing at Bloomington.
“Angela has been successful both as a teacher and a leader in the IU School of Nursing,” he said. “I look forward to her leadership in our SNAHP programs and know they will continue to thrive under her direction.”
Opsahl’s immediate goals will be expanding programs and growing enrollment in SNAHP program, which include bachelor’s degree programs in nursing, radiologic sciences, and the occupational therapy assistant program, as well as Master of Science in nursing degrees in tracks including nurse educator, nurse administrator, and family nurse practitioner.
“Serving as dean of the School of Nursing and Allied Health Professions is an incredible opportunity to apply my leadership in academia to a role that directly impacts the growth and workforce development in three areas of healthcare: nursing, occupational therapy, and radiology,” she said. “These professions directly support the quality health of the local community. I am thrilled to be part of a thriving academic campus that makes a meaningful difference in students’ lives.”
Most recently Opsahl has been interim associate dean and assistant dean for academic affairs in the IU School of Nursing, Bloomington. She also served as the IUSON RN to BSN statewide degree completion option director for all nine campuses. She has published more than 28 peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters and provided more than 65 peer-reviewed conference presentations, including international locations. She also served as central Indiana region quality data manager for Franciscan Health at three central Indiana hospitals.
She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Indiana University. She recently completed the Harvard University Certification in Leadership Excellence in 2024.
Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.