Howard University’s College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences will begin a new chapter in its 58-year history as the university welcomes Christopher Lance Coleman, Ph.D., MPH, MS, FAAN, FADLN as the new dean of the College.  Dr. Coleman will join the University on Aug. 3, 2026, and will report to Provost Anthony K. Wutoh, Ph.D., R.Ph. 

Wayne A.I. Frederick (B.S. ’92, M.D. ’94, MBA ’11), interim president, president emeritus, and Charles R. Drew Professor of Surgery, praised Coleman’s appointment in a statement to the University community. “Dr. Coleman joins Howard University as a distinguished nurse scholar, educator, researcher, and academic leader whose career has been defined by a commitment to excellence, innovation, and service. Throughout his professional journey, he has advanced nursing education, expanded research initiatives, strengthened community partnerships, and championed health equity in ways that have transformed lives and institutions alike.” 

Coleman most recently served as dean and professor of Nursing at Oakland University. His previous leadership appointments include roles at Purdue University, Indiana University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, spanning some of the nation’s most respected academic and health science institutions. His national recognition includes the National Black Nurses Association Trailblazer Award and designation as an AALD (Advancing Academic Leadership for Deans) Fellow of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. 

“His scholarship has contributed significantly to our understanding of health disparities, HIV prevention and treatment, health promotion, and behavioral health,” said Frederick. “As Howard University continues to address the urgent healthcare challenges facing our nation and the global community, Dr. Coleman brings the leadership, experience, and cultural understanding essential to advancing our mission. His deep appreciation for the role historically Black colleges and universities play in developing healthcare professionals and addressing inequities in care positions him uniquely to build upon the extraordinary legacy of the College of Nursing and Allied Health Science.” 

Coleman called the new appointment a highlight in what is already a stellar career in leading nursing education and health equity research. “I am profoundly honored to be named Dean of the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences at Howard University. To join an institution with such a powerful legacy, mission, and national impact is both humbling and inspiring. This role represents one of the most important opportunities of my career, and I am deeply committed to advancing Howard’s tradition of excellence and expanding pathways for diverse health professionals.” 

For more than five decades, the College has prepared healthcare professionals whose impact extends from local communities to healthcare systems around the world, and Coleman will continue moving this forward, said Dr. Frederick. “Dr. Coleman’s vision for academic excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration, research innovation, and student success will strengthen that tradition while expanding the College’s influence on education, clinical practice, scholarship, and service. I am confident that under his leadership, the College will continue to elevate its national prominence and deepen its contributions to advancing health equity and improving outcomes for underserved populations.” 

Coleman will succeed Dr. Felecia M. Banks in the role. Frederick expressed his sincere gratitude to Banks for her dedicated service as interim dean. “Her steady leadership, commitment to our students and faculty, and stewardship of the College during this important transition have ensured its continued strength and success. We are grateful for her contributions and commitment to our community.” 

Positioned for the future, Frederick said: “I look forward to the continued growth and impact of the College as it advances our University's mission of excellence in truth and service.”