September 12, 2025

Lander University Launches New College of Nursing and Health Sciences

News Summary

Lander University has launched its College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences to enhance collaboration among health-related disciplines. Dr. Holisa Wharton has been named dean. The college integrates nursing, exercise science, and public health and aims to grow scholarship offerings and attract high-quality students. With a New Student Orientation engaging around 213 students and an expected 950 enrollments, the university is set to strengthen community ties. The Class of 2024 will celebrate their commencement in December, honoring 442 graduates and emphasizing the importance of health education.

Greenwood, South Carolina – Lander University has commenced the fall semester with a newly established College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences (CNHPHS), as part of a comprehensive restructuring of its academic framework. The creation of the CNHPHS combines nursing, exercise science, and public health programs into a cohesive structure aimed at enhancing collaboration among disciplines and better preparing students for careers in the health sector.

Dr. Holisa Wharton has been appointed as the dean of the CNHPHS, which was established to address the growing demand for qualified health professionals in South Carolina. The college consists of several key components: the School of Nursing, under the leadership of assistant dean Dr. Julie Crawford; the Department of Exercise Science and Human Performance, led by Dr. Jeff Barfield; and the Public Health program, coordinated by Dr. Claire Mensack. Together, these segments of the college aim to foster a comprehensive educational environment that cultivates skilled graduates.

The CNHPHS is anticipated to grow scholarship offerings, enhance its facilities, and develop community partnerships to improve student retention rates and attract high-quality students and faculty members. Such measures are critical as health professions continue to evolve and as demand for qualified professionals continues to rise at local, state, and national levels.

As part of the semester’s kickoff, Lander University hosted a New Student Orientation that featured various community-focused activities, including cookouts, campus tours, and social events aimed at acclimating new students to university life. Approximately 213 students participated in the first orientation session, while Lander University expects around 950 new students to enroll throughout the initial summer sessions. The orientation activities strongly emphasized student engagement, encouraging relationship-building among peers, which is vital in fostering a supportive university community.

During the students’ orientation, Bearcat, Lander University’s mascot, joined in the festivities, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere that welcomed newcomers. As incoming nursing majors met their fellow students, they expressed excitement about starting their academic journeys, backed by enthusiastic support from their families.

Lander University will also celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2024 during its 170th Commencement Exercises on December 12. The ceremony is expected to honor approximately 442 graduates. The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Shana Southard Dobbs, recognized as the 2024 Distinguished Professor of the Year. In addition to the graduation ceremony, a recognition event will honor 32 nursing graduates, during which Dr. Amber Lee Walston will encourage participants to become advocates for their patients and engage in lifelong learning. Several nursing students are set to receive special awards for their exemplary contributions and achievements in the field, reinforcing the university’s commitment to nurturing excellence in its health sciences programs.

Key Features of the CNHPHS Launch

New College Established: College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences (CNHPHS).
Dean: Dr. Holisa Wharton.
Components: School of Nursing, Department of Exercise Science, Public Health program.
Orientation Participation: 213 students in the first session; 950 new students projected.
Commencement: Class of 2024 on December 12, with 442 graduates.

Conclusion

The establishment of the College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences marks a significant step for Lander University in responding to the evolving needs of the healthcare industry. By creating a collaborative environment for nursing, exercise science, and public health programs, the university aims to greatly enhance student education and career readiness for its graduates.

FAQ

What programs are included in the new College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences?

The CNHPHS includes the School of Nursing, the Department of Exercise Science and Human Performance, and the Public Health program.

Who is the dean of the CNHPHS?

Dr. Holisa Wharton has been appointed as the dean of the newly formed college.

What events were held during New Student Orientation?

Orientation featured community cookouts, campus tours, and social events aimed at helping new students integrate into the campus community.

Summary Chart of CNHPHS Features

Feature	Details
New College	College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences
Dean	Dr. Holisa Wharton
Programs Included	School of Nursing, Exercise Science, Public Health
Orientation Attendance	213 students in first session; 950 projected
Commencement Date	December 12
Graduates Expected	442 graduates