New Leadership at CPH: Amanda Ellis Named Assistant Dean for Public Health Science Programs
The University of Kentucky College of Public Health (CPH) has appointed Amanda Ellis, PhD, as the new Assistant Dean for the Public Health Science Programs. In this role, Dr. Ellis will lead the strategic direction and daily operations of CPH’s scientific graduate programs (PhD in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, PhD Health Services Research, Master of Science in Biostatistics, Master of Science in Epidemiology, and Biostatistics Certificate) so they align with the College’s mission to educate and empower the next generation of public health scientists.
“Appointing Dr. Amanda Ellis as our new Assistant Dean for Public Health Science demonstrates a commitment to our students and faculty across all our public health science degrees,” said Heather M. Bush, PhD, Dean of the College. “Dr. Ellis has an extensive track record for fostering a supportive and enriching environment for graduate students to excel. She understands both delivering high-quality graduate programs comprised of research-intensive courses and the specialized needs of students learning in these programs. Our faculty are committed to providing students with an experience that launches their research careers; Dr. Ellis’ leadership will continue to shape and enhance our graduate programs to ready our students for public health innovation.”
In her role, Dr. Ellis will oversee curriculum development, student success initiatives, faculty collaboration, and accreditation processes. She said she is dedicated to ensuring that every graduate student has a meaningful and impactful academic experience.
“This role aligns perfectly with my passion for education and commitment to student success,” Dr. Ellis said. “Serving as Assistant Dean provides an even larger platform to support students and ensure high-quality educational opportunities.”
Dr. Ellis is especially excited about the opportunity to collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to strengthen academic programming. One key initiative she looks forward to is enhancing opportunities for student connection and community-building across the Public Health Science programs.
She emphasized the importance of improving student orientation to create a seamless transition into the program as well as providing clear and accessible communication channels to keep students informed and engaged.
“Creating structured opportunities for students to interact with both their peers and faculty is a priority for me,” Dr. Ellis said.
Dr. Ellis has been a part of the College of Public Health since 2020, previously serving as Vice Chair of the Department of Biostatistics and Director of Graduate Studies for the Master of Science in Biostatistics program.
Dr. Ellis credits senior faculty in the College’s Biostatistics Department for shaping her approach to research, teaching, and leadership. She has also been deeply influenced by mentors who integrate public health practice into teaching and leadership.
“Their guidance, support, and willingness to provide opportunities for professional growth have been invaluable. By trusting me to take on new challenges, they have helped me develop the confidence and skills necessary to navigate and contribute meaningfully to the field,” Dr. Ellis said.
For Dr. Ellis, this leadership opportunity is both meaningful and unexpected.
"If you asked me 10 years ago where I would be professionally, I would not have thought this opportunity would be possible. I feel lucky to be in this position," she said.
As she steps into this new role, Dr. Ellis remains committed to education and student success, thus strengthening the Public Health Science programs at CPH. Her leadership will help shape the next generation of public health professionals, ensuring that they are equipped to make a lasting impact in their fields.
