UAMS names Nembhard as dean of the Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health

August 2, 2026 - 04:22

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences has selected Dr. Wendy N. Nembhard as the next dean of its Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health. Her appointment takes effect on September 1. Nembhard will step into the role following the tenure of the current dean, who is stepping down after leading the college through a period of growth in research and community partnerships.

Nembhard comes to UAMS from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences itself, where she has served in several leadership positions within the college. She holds a doctorate in epidemiology and a master's degree in public health, with a research focus on birth defects and infant mortality, particularly among minority populations. Her work has been funded by the National Institutes of Health and other federal agencies.

In her new role, Nembhard will oversee academic programs, research initiatives, and public health outreach across the state. She has expressed a commitment to strengthening the college's role in addressing rural health disparities and building a more diverse public health workforce. Faculty and staff have welcomed the appointment, citing her experience in both teaching and administrative leadership. The search committee praised her collaborative style and deep understanding of the college's mission. Nembhard will begin her duties in the fall, and an interim leadership plan is in place until her official start date.