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Doisy Names New Associate Dean

09/03/2025

After a national search, the Edward and Margaret Doisy College of Health Sciences at Saint Louis University named Stephen Nickell, Ed.D., associate dean for student and academic affairs. 

Headshot of Stephen Nickell
Nickell

“I am thrilled to join the Doisy College of Health Sciences," Nickell said. "I look forward to working alongside the talented students, faculty, and staff at Saint Louis University and to supporting our shared commitment to academic excellence. In this role, I am especially excited to focus on student success and to help create meaningful experiences that prepare our students to thrive both personally and professionally.” 

As associate dean, Nickell will support program curriculum development and redesign efforts, as well as assessment, academic program review and program re-accreditation. He will also lead the college curriculum development, assessment and Ph.D. advisory committees, and represent Doisy College at university committees. 

Nickell brings more 19 years of higher education experience to his new role. A graduate of the doctor of education program at the University of Missouri, his background includes a Bachelor of Sciences in Athletic Training from Ohio University and a Master of Arts in Human Services Administration from Rider University.

Nickell started his career as a high-school athletic trainer before transitioning to higher education. His prior experiences include serving as a clinical coordinator at Urbana University and Southeast Missouri State University, and program director for athletic training and chair of sports and exercise science at Logan University. In those roles, he was responsible for curriculum and program design, assessment and accreditation compliance, as well as serving as the primary contact for courses, programs and general student academic questions. Most recently, he was director of student services at St. Charles Community College, where he oversaw academic advising, career services, international student services, disability student services. 

“Dr. Stephen Nickell’s educational background and wealth of experience in various leadership roles make him uniquely prepared for the important role of associate dean for student and academic affairs," said Bernard Rousseau, Ph.D., professor and dean of Doisy College. "We are excited to welcome him to the college. I have confidence he will be a strong collaborator and contributor to the mission of the college and the institution and look forward to working with him.” 

About SLU’s Edward and Margaret Doisy College of Health Sciences

The Doisy College of Health Sciences has provided students with the tools and education to become well-prepared healthcare professionals since 1929. The Doisy College of Health Sciences offers healthcare education at the baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral and professional levels in a variety of health-related fields. 

About Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University is a Catholic, Jesuit institution that values academic excellence, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service. Founded in 1818, the University fosters the intellectual and character development of more than 15,000 students on two campuses in St. Louis and Madrid, Spain. Building on a legacy of more than 200 years, Saint Louis University continues to move forward with an unwavering commitment to a higher purpose, a greater good.