It’s been over 60 days since Kelly Fiala took the helm of NIU’s College of Health and Human Sciences (CHHS).With boxes unpacked and the Week of Welcome in the rearview mirror, the new dean already feels like part of the Huskie family.
Kelly Fiala, dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences.
“Hands down, I’ve been so impressed by the people,” Fiala said. “It’s a very supportive environment and I felt immediately that people want me to be successful in my role. There is intentionality around making sure that I have the support I need; I’ve been welcomed with open arms.”
Fiala joins NIU from Salisbury University in Salisbury Maryland, where she served in a variety of administrative roles including department chair, associate dean and interim dean of the Seidel School of Education and Professional Studies. Most recently, Fiala served as the transitional and founding dean of Salisbury’s College of Health and Human Services.
Her extensive experience, including launching Salisbury’s Center for Healthy Communities which works to positively impact their community’s health status through workforce development, grant activities and service learning made her an excellent choice to lead the college.
“I’m so pleased to have Kelly Fiala serving in the role of dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences,” said Laurie Elish-Piper, interim executive vice president and provost. “She is a great addition to the team of deans we have at NIU who are creative, collaborative, and effective leaders.”
Fiala earned her bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences from Western Michigan University, master’s degree in sports studies from Bemidji State University and doctorate degree in educational psychology from University of Connecticut. In addition, she maintains professional credentials as an athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist.
“Kelly brings a wealth of leadership experience as well as expertise with partnerships, innovation, and student success to her work,” Elish-Piper said. “Her enthusiasm and vision are key assets that will help her work together with faculty, staff, and students to move the college forward in positive and productive ways.”
A first-generation college student, Fiala said it was NIU’s overall mission and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion that drew her to DeKalb. In addition, it was the variety of CHHS programs and the clinics – which have a direct impact on the community – that drew her to the college.
“I have always been involved in community education and professional education for practitioners, but to be in involved in direct service really elevates that impact and creates these amazing opportunities for our students,” Fiala said. “They are pursuing the most rewarding professions and are dedicating their lives to helping others.”
Fiala has a track record as a proven leader who prides herself on her fairness, transparency, and collaboration. She prioritizes faculty and staff development to best champion students, engage in scholarship, and serve the community.
“There is certainly a focus on interprofessional education and having students learn alongside each other,” said the dean. “It’s a hallmark of health and human science education and it is an approach that the NIU faculty and staff are very invested in.”
As Huskies filled the hallways on the first day of class, Fiala is ready for her new role.
“I am looking forward to so much, but the biggest thing is that excitement and energy around the start of fall semester,” she said. “It’s great to bring everyone back together to do the work of educating students. The first day of school never gets old.”
Learn more about the College of Health and Human Sciences.
