The University of Kentucky College of Public Health (CPH) has named Sarah Cprek, PhD, MPH, as the Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Affairs. In her new role, Dr. Cprek will oversee the strategic direction and operations of the undergraduate programs, ensuring alignment with the College’s mission to prepare future public health leaders.
Innovation and student success will be the foundation of Dr. Cprek’s approach to shaping undergraduate education at CPH.
“Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that every undergraduate student has a meaningful and impactful experience that equips them to address public health challenges,” Dr. Cprek said. “It’s about balancing strategic vision with day-to-day management and ensuring that our undergraduate programs are not just academically rigorous but also student-centered and forward-thinking.”
Heather M. Bush, PhD, Dean of the College, highlighted the significance of Dr. Cprek’s new role, emphasizing its impact on advancing the College’s mission. “This new leadership position for the College reflects our commitment to strengthening our undergraduate programs to advance public health for Kentucky and for all,” said Dean Bush. “Dr. Sarah Cprek, an award-winning teacher and leader in public health undergraduate education, has been a tireless advocate for our BPH program. As we expand our focus beyond a single program -- creating new and innovative opportunities for students, developing pipelines to the BPH program, identifying pathways for our graduates, and partnering with other programs and organizations -- we will need strong leadership and vision. I can think of no one better to lead this team effort, working across our college and campus, to provide new opportunities for undergraduate students to learn and thrive as they start their journeys in public health.”
Anna Hallahan, Director of External Affairs for the College of Public Health, highlighted Dr. Cprek’s impact on the alumni community and her role in shaping future public health leaders. “Our alumni frequently credit Dr. Cprek as a key influence in their decision to pursue public health,” Hallahan said. “Her leadership continues to shape the future of our field, and I know our alumni community will be thrilled to see her recognized in this role.”
Dr. Cprek is also focused on fostering meaningful partnerships across campus and within the broader public health community. These collaborations will enhance both learning opportunities and professional preparation for students.
“I’m particularly excited about expanding experiential learning opportunities, strengthening cross-campus partnerships, and refining our program structure to better support student growth while ensuring they graduate on time and succeed in their careers,” she explained.
Dr. Cprek joined CPH in 2014 as a research coordinator. In 2016, she moved into a faculty position in the Department of Health, Behavior & Society and became Director of Undergraduate Studies for the College. In 2024 she transitioned to her current role as an assistant professor in the Department of Health, Management, and Policy. She held the position of Director of Undergraduate Studies from 2016 until accepting the role as Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Affairs.
Her leadership style is rooted in collaboration and empowerment, inspired by visionary leaders who prioritize compassion. This approach, coupled with her deep commitment to public health students, has made her an exceptional advocate for their success.
“I believe the greatest contribution I can make in my career is developing graduates who will create a positive impact on public health,” Dr. Cprek shared.
As she steps into this new role, Dr. Cprek’s dedication and vision promise to further strengthen CPH’s undergraduate programs and inspire the next generation of public health leaders.
The University of Kentucky College of Public Health is undergoing a review by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) for re-accreditation. Part of this process includes the invitation to provide third-party comments. Anyone, including students, alumni, employers, community partners, etc., is allowed to share relevant information about the college directly with CEPH. If you would like to provide input to CEPH to inform their review, send your comments to submissions@ceph.org by May 4th, 2025.
