Dr. Radtke to Lead Several Graduate Programs on Downers Grove Campus
Dr. Sarah Radtke
Midwestern University is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Radtke, Ed.D., M.S., as Dean of the College of Health Sciences for the Downers Grove Campus. A distinguished leader in higher education with more than two decades of academic, clinical, and administrative experience, Dr. Radtke brings a strong commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, student success, and program innovation.
Dr. Radtke joins Midwestern University from Aurora University, where she most recently served as Dean of the College of Health and Sciences. In this role, she oversaw three academic schools: Health Science; Nursing; and Natural Science, Technology, and Mathematics, managing a robust portfolio of undergraduate and graduate programs. Her accomplishments include launching new degrees in Healthcare Administration, Communication Sciences and Disorders, and two MBA tracks in Healthcare and Sport Management. She also created pipeline partnerships with institutions including Rush University, Loyola University, and Midwestern University.
“Dr. Radtke is a proven academic leader with a clear vision for the future of health sciences education,” said Joshua Baker, O.D., Interim President of Midwestern University. “Her depth of experience in program development, faculty leadership, and strategic partnerships will be invaluable as we continue to expand our impact in health education and service.”
Dr. Radtke holds a Doctor of Education in Adult and Higher Education and a Master of Science in Education in Exercise Physiology from Northern Illinois University. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and Fitness and Health Promotion from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. A certified athletic trainer and published scholar, she has presented nationally on topics ranging from emotional intelligence in healthcare to self-directed learning and clinical education strategies.
During her more than 20-year tenure at Aurora University, Dr. Radtke served as a faculty member, department chair, faculty senate chair, and professor of athletic training and exercise science. She launched multiple student retention and leadership initiatives, including a semester-long Faculty Promotion Series and a year-long Academic Leadership Academy. She is also deeply engaged in public service, currently serving as a municipal trustee and committee chair in her community.
“I am honored to join Midwestern University and contribute to its proud tradition of service and longstanding excellence in health sciences education,” said Dr. Radtke. “I look forward to collaborating with faculty, students, and staff to further enhance the college’s academic programs and community partnerships.”
Dr. Radtke’s appointment marks a new chapter of growth and innovation for the College of Health Sciences, which offers graduate degree programs in Physician Assistant Studies, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, and Clinical Psychology. Her leadership will help shape the future of healthcare education and support the development of well-prepared, compassionate healthcare professionals.
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) 515-7333. To learn more about Midwestern University Clinics, visit https://www.mwuclinics.com.