Date: June 23, 2008
Contact: Eric Matanyi
Governors State University
Phone: (708) 534-4044
Fax: (708) 534-8399
Email: e-matanyi@govst.edu
For Immediate Release
University Park, IL, June 23, 2008 - The College of Health Professions at Governors State University (GSU) has been renamed to better reflect the college’s growing range of academic programs. As of July 1, 2008, the college will be known as the College of Health and Human Services.
The college’s strategic mission, however, remains the same. “We are excited about the name change,” said Dr. Linda Samson, college dean. “It is a better reflection of who we are and what we do. But the mission behind our name remains the same as we continue to focus on improving the lives of those in need of critical healthcare and human services.”
The name change is the result of a strategic planning process that the college began approximately three years ago. “It came from the discussions that centered on the name being an unclear reflection of the kinds of programs that were housed within the college,” explained Samson.
Many of the college’s programs, including social work and addictions studies, are not necessarily viewed as health professions. The new name better reflects all programs under the college’s umbrella.
“We remain strongly committed to providing education and care related to vulnerable populations and the areas of our community where health disparities exist,” Samson noted. “We offer outstanding educational opportunities in both the health professions and human services. Those who choose to enter these fields will help shape the quality of life in our region. We are preparing them for this key role.”
The College of Health and Human Services offers bachelor’s degrees in Communication Disorders, Health Administration, Nursing, and Social Work as well as three undergraduate certificates and eight graduate certificates. Master’s degrees are available in Addiction Studies, Communication Disorders, Health Administration, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and Social Work. Doctoral degrees are offered in Physical Therapy and advanced Nursing Practice, and new advanced practice doctorates in Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy will begin in January, 2009.
Governors State University is located at 1 University Parkway, University Park, Illinois. For more information about the College of Health and Human Services and its degree and certificate programs, call (708) 534-4389, or visit www.govst.edu/chhs.
