ACPHS’ School of Health Sciences has announced two new leadership roles following the departure of David Clarke after nearly three decades of dedicated leadership, mentorship, and service to the College.
Michelle Parent, PhD
Associate Professor Michelle Parent, PhD, has been named the chair of the Department of Allied Health Sciences. This department includes bachelors and master’s programs in clinical laboratory sciences, cytotechnology and molecular cytology, nursing and public health, as well as our impending MS in Physician Assistant Studies with anticipated enrollment in Fall 2027, and our humanities faculty. She joined ACPHS in 2017.
Working in the field of Medical Laboratory Science for more than 25 years, Dr. Parent previously served as a tenured Associate Professor and Department Chair at the University of Delaware, where she educated Medical Laboratory Science students and students pursuing health professions careers.
Since arriving at ACPHS, Michelle has played a central role in advancing the Clinical Laboratory Sciences programs through her leadership in program development, accreditation preparation, student mentorship, and clinical laboratory education. She has also taken an active role in faculty governance and is currently serving as the Faculty Chair-Elect.
Her experience across higher education, clinical microbiology, and healthcare workforce development continues to strengthen the School’s clinical and applied education mission.
Eric Yager, PhD
Eric Yager, PhD, will serve as chair of the Department of Life Sciences which encompasses bachelor and master’s programs in biomedical sciences, biotechnology, forensic psychology, forensic science, health data science, health sciences, microbiology, molecular biosciences, and psychology. Dr. Yager joined ACPHS in 2011.
Most recently, he has served as the Chair of the Department of Allied Health Sciences, Director of our Pre-Pharmacy Program, and in major governance roles including Faculty Senate Chair and Chair of the Faculty Affairs Committee. Prior to joining the College, Dr. Yager spent nearly 15 years as a research associate for Albany Medical Center, the Trudeau Institute, and the New York State Department of Health
His contributions at ACPHS have spanned curriculum development, faculty governance, virology research, student advising, and public science communication. Through his teaching, research, leadership and public engagement, Dr. Yager has made sustained and meaningful contributions to the academic mission of ACPHS and to the broader scientific and public health communities.
Many across the Capital Region also recognize Dr. Yager as a trusted virologist and public voice on infectious diseases through his longstanding community outreach and media engagement.
“Both Drs. Parent and Yager’s extensive contributions to the College’s mission will play an integral part in helping The School of Health Sciences achieve its goals,” said Dean of The School of Health Sciences, Meenakshi Malik, PhD. “We are so pleased to welcome them to these new leadership roles.”
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