ATHENS, Ohio -- Stephen J. Kopp, dean of the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions at Central Michigan University, has been appointed Provost of Ohio University, President Robert Glidden announced today.
Kopp, 50, received his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Chicago and his bachelor's degree from the University of Notre Dame. He has authored and co-authored more than 80 peer-reviewed publications on cardiology, hypertension and metabolism and has presented scholarly articles at numerous regional, national and international symposia. Kopp serves on many state and national scientific panels and advisory committees, including National Institutes of Health, Department of Energy Office of Health and Environmental Research and the American Heart Association of Metropolitan Chicago. His professional memberships include the American Association of Higher Education, Biophysical Society, Society of Toxicology and Association of Schools of Allied Health Professions. Additionally, Kopp is a member of the Physiology Panel for the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners. His current research includes public health policy and the use of technology as a tool for healthcare self-management.
As dean of CMU's Dow College of Health Professions, Kopp secured $37.5 million to fund the university's new health professions building, which broke ground this year. He was instrumental in developing a variety of initiatives including the Rural Telehealth and Community Education Network. The network gives residents and health care providers in rural areas access to consulting services and health information.
Prior to his appointment at CMU, Kopp was dean of the College of Allied Health Professions at Midwestern University, Downers Grove, Ill. He was on the faculty of Midwestern's College of Osteopathic Medicine for 18 years, serving as chair of the Department of Physiology for 11 years.
Beginning July 1, 2002 at an annual salary of $190,000, provost-designate Kopp will work in partnership with the president on major academic and administrative matters including academic, fiscal and physical planning, and policy matters that extend across the university community. The provost plays a pivotal role in working with the vice presidents to achieve a coordinated approach to university-wide responsibilities.
"I am very pleased that Steve Kopp has accepted our offer of appointment to the provost position. He possesses the breadth of intellectual interest and academic experience that we were seeking and he has proven himself in several different positions to be an extremely effective administrator," President Glidden said. "He has an analytical mind, is a good listener and consensus-builder. I believe his personal style will fit exceptionally well at Ohio University."
Kopp is known for his inventive ideas and experimental approach to problem solving. He is a strong advocate for reform in higher education and a supporter of life-long learning.
"I envision a very exciting and productive future at Ohio University," Kopp said. "The opportunities and potential imbedded in the rich traditions of this remarkable institution of higher learning are extraordinary. I am very excited about becoming a vital part of the university community and look forward to dedicating myself to making a positive difference. My wife Jane, and I are looking forward to becoming active members in our new community."
Kopp and his wife have two children, Elizabeth Marie Bradley and Adam Christopher.
Gary Schumacher has been interim provost since July 1, replacing Sharon Brehm, who resigned to take the positions of chancellor of the Bloomington campus and vice president for academic affairs at Indiana University.
