JAN. 2026
DEAN’S UPDATE
Dear BCH family,
It’s hard to believe that January 2026 is already coming to an end! This month, we continued our collective efforts to support and strengthen our college. Below is a brief summary of our recent progress and initiatives.
8.2% ENROLLMENT GROWTH
Largest increase in five years
FAN & KAF EXPANSION
More qualified freshman into Nursing & Kinesiology pathways
UNF ENROLLMENT PARTNERSHIP
Stratetic collaboration to manage growth
FACULTY & STAFF SUPPORT
Resources to sustain rapid growth
Compared to spring 2025, our enrollment increased by 8.2%, the largest growth in the past five years. At the same time, we are working closely with UNF Enrollment Services to admit more qualified high school students into our Freshman Admit Nursing (FAN) and Kinesiology Admit Freshman (KAF) programs.
Simultaneously, the deans are collaborating with UNF leadership to ensure BCH faculty and staff have the necessary resources and support to successfully manage the college’s rapid growth.
BCH RENOVATION PROGRESS
Investing in spaces that support student growth and faculty excellence
Construction began in fall 2025, and two labs (Nutrition and 4 floor Public Health lab) are expected to be completed this semester.
Renovation of the 3 floor Public Health lab and the Gross Anatomy lab have begun and are anticipated to be finished in early summer.
New flooring and fresh paint in hallways is expected to be completed by early summer.
We appreciate everyone’s patience throughout this renovation process.
BCH Faculty and Staff Leadership Training
Leadself. Leadothers. Leadtomorrow.
Following leadership training for the dean and associate deans, department chairs and program directors in spring 2024, BCH launched the 2026 leadership training program for all faculty and key staff from Student Health Services, the Counseling Center and BCH Academic Advising. This semester, 30 faculty and staff members were selected to participate in the cohort.
ThroughtheIGNITEleadershipdevelopmentprogram,participantswill:
Identify and manage difficult communication situations in professional environments
Develop effective communication techniques
Apply decision-making and problem-solving skills through realistic scenarios
Practice emotional intelligence through team collaboration in simulated situations
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY ADVISORY BOARD – SPRING MEETING
Outstanding leaders serving on the BCH Leadership Academy Advisory Board met in January for their spring meeting.
With a focus on developing leadership skills among BCH students and expanding access to healthcare executive networking opportunities, the group discussed fundraising strategies to support these initiatives, along with curriculum updates designed to strengthen students’ leadership skills and professional preparation.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDRAISING ACTIVITIES
BCH deans and development officers are working closely with department chairs and unit heads to connect priority needs with community partners and individual donors.
These collaborations help:
Student success through program and facility enhancements
Faculty and academic initiatives strengthened through support
Healthcare and community relationships expanded
Mission advancement through meaningful partnership
BCH Annual Awards — Nominations Open
BCH faculty and staff consistently go above and beyond in teaching, research and service, shaping the future of our healthcare students and strengthening the college every day. Our annual awards recognize these outstanding contributions and celebrate the individuals who make a lasting impact across BCH.
We are currently accepting nominations for the BCH Annual Awards. The nomination period will close on February 27.
If you would like to nominate a deserving faculty or staff member, please scan the QR code or visit: unf.edu/brooks/about/annual-awards.html
We remain committed to the continued growth of the college, supporting our faculty and staff, and advancing student success. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
Thank you, BCH Deans
SCAN TO NOMINATE