June 27, 2016
The University of the Sciences has named Dr. Paul Katz the school's 25th president, the school's Board of Trustees announced Monday.
Katz, who will begin serving as president on September 1, had been the founding dean of Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden, New Jersey since 2010.
“Over the course of more than 40 years in healthcare and higher education, Dr. Paul Katz has gained invaluable experience and has demonstrated skilled and visionary leadership, which will be a tremendous benefit to University of the Sciences,” said Board Chairman Marvin Samson. “His understanding of the rapidly changing arenas of both healthcare and higher education, and his belief and experience in interdisciplinary healthcare delivery, make him uniquely qualified to help shape USciences’ future.”
Katz oversaw the graduation of Cooper Medical School's charter class in May and guided the school to receive full accreditation in June.
The University of the Sciences, located in West Philadelphia, identified 15 candidates to be interviewed for the position in March.
“USciences has a long and proud history of preparing students to become leaders, innovators, and skilled practitioners in the sciences, the health professions, and related disciplines,” said Dr. Katz. “I am very excited to help build upon the great legacy of the school and its unique niche. I look forward to the tremendous opportunities that await us.”
Katz will replace Dr. Kathleen R. Mayes who has been serving as interim president since July 2015.
Full disclosure: PhillyVoice's Executive Director Lexie Norcross sits on the Cooper Foundation Board of Trustees. Her father, George E. Norcross III, is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of The Cooper Health System and the Cooper University Hospital.
