This week, Midwestern University announced the retirement of Kathleen H. Goeppinger, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer, following an extraordinary tenure spanning nearly 40 years of leadership and service. The University has bestowed the honorary title of President Emeritus on Dr. Goeppinger in recognition of her lasting contributions to the institution.
Dr. Goeppinger joined Midwestern University’s Board of Trustees in 1985 and became President and CEO in 1995. Under her leadership, the University experienced dramatic growth – expanding from fewer than 900 students to nearly 7,000 across two campuses in Downers Grove, Illinois, and Glendale, Arizona. During her presidency, Midwestern University added numerous academic programs and constructed state-of-the-art facilities, transforming into one of the nation’s leading graduate institutions in health sciences education.
“Today, I believe the season has arrived to announce my decision to retire,” said Dr. Goeppinger. “It has been a privilege to serve this remarkable community. Midwestern University is strong – academically, financially, and culturally – and I have every confidence that it will continue to thrive and grow under new leadership.”
Janet Bolton, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, expressed deep appreciation: “Dr. Goeppinger’s vision and commitment have shaped every aspect of Midwestern University. From the growth of our programs and campuses to the strength of our academic mission, her leadership has left an enduring legacy. On behalf of the Board, we extend our gratitude and admiration.”
To lead the University through this transition, the Board of Trustees has appointed Dr. Joshua Baker, as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 20, 2025. Dr. Baker brings a strong background in higher education leadership and a dedication to the University’s mission of academic excellence and community impact.
Looking ahead, Midwestern University remains focused on innovation and expansion, including the upcoming launch of a new College of Veterinary Medicine on the Downers Grove campus. The University continues to invest in advanced clinical training, educational technologies, and research initiatives that prepare students to become leaders in the health professions.
“Midwestern University is built on a foundation of collaboration, compassion, and excellence,” said Dr. Baker. “We will honor the legacy of those who came before us while boldly pursuing new opportunities to advance healthcare education and serve our communities.” For more information about Midwestern University, please visit www.midwestern.edu.
About Midwestern University
Midwestern University is a private, not-for-profit graduate and postgraduate institution specializing in the health sciences. The University serves more than 6,800 students across two campuses. The 105-acre Downers Grove Campus in Illinois includes seven colleges: the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine; the College of Pharmacy, Downers Grove; the College of Health Sciences–Downers Grove Campus; the College of Dental Medicine–Illinois; the Chicago College of Optometry; the Proposed College of Veterinary Medicine–Illinois; and the College of Graduate Studies. The University also operates an 11-acre clinical campus that includes the Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic and the future Companion Animal Clinic. The 134-acre Glendale Campus in Arizona includes eight colleges: the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine; the College of Pharmacy, Glendale; the College of Health Sciences–Glendale Campus; the College of Dental Medicine–Arizona; the Arizona College of Optometry; the College of Veterinary Medicine-Arizona; the College of Graduate Studies; and the Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine. The campus also features five community clinics on a 40-acre clinical campus: the Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic, Dental Institute, Eye Institute, Animal Health Institute, and Therapy Institute.
Midwestern University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. For more information, visit https://www.midwestern.edu or call 630-515-7300. To learn more about Midwestern University Clinics, visit https://www.mwuclinics.com.