Dr. Jackie Zhang Appointed Oregon Tech’s Dean of the College of Health, Arts and Sciences

Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech) conducted a nationwide search and is pleased to welcome Jackie Zhang, M.D., Ph.D., as Dean of the College of Health, Arts and Sciences (HAS). Zhang will join Oregon Tech in June 2026.

Zhang's most recent positions include Professor and Dean of the College of Health Professions at Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Oregon Tech President Dr. Nagi Naganathan said, "Dr. Zhang will play a critical role in the vision of the College of HAS and help elevate Oregon Tech's academic reputation. He brings more than two decades of academic and administrative leadership, with deep experience as both a dean and associate dean and a strong record of growing programs and student success."

A medical doctor by training, Zhang also holds a doctorate in Healthcare Administration and a master's degree in public health. As a researcher, Zhang has secured more than $20 million in funding as a principal or co-investigator from the National Institutes of Health, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Department of Education, and various state governments, private foundations, and corporate entities. His work encompasses both foundational scholarship and high-impact applied research.

"I enthusiastically welcome Dr. Zhang to our Oregon Tech community," Provost Hesham El-Rewini said. "Jackie is an accomplished academic leader with extensive experience across public and private universities. I am impressed by the depth of knowledge, energy, and innovative ideas that will help shape the next chapter of excellence at HAS. I look forward to working together to advance the university's impact in applied research, community service, and the delivery of health and science programs grounded in a strong foundation of general education."

"It is a privilege to join Oregon Tech and the College of Health, Arts, and Sciences," Zhang said. "I am especially excited about the college's unique role in advancing applied education, improving rural health, and strengthening the regional workforce. Together with our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners, I look forward to expanding high-impact programs, deepening community engagement, and preparing graduates who make an immediate difference in their professions and communities."

Beyond his institutional roles, Zhang is a dedicated community leader, serving on the national Board of College of Health Deans and regional boards for the Red Cross and YMCA. In recognition of his sustained commitment to community service, he was honored with the U.S. Presidential Volunteer Service Award.

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