A Message from the President

Thomas L. Lewis, OD, PhD

A tradition of leadership and excellence for more than nine decades marks the history of the innovative institution we now call Salus University.  Originally founded as a college of optometry in 1919, the University has maintained and continually expanded its focus on excellence in academics and clinical education.

Today, Salus University offers graduate and professional degree programs in high-growth, high opportunity programs ranging from Optometry, Audiology, Physician Assistant and Public Health, to programs for the education and rehabilitation of people with blindness and visual/multiple impairments.  Our graduates are in demand as they are well prepared, highly skilled, and ready for leadership in their chosen professions.   Changes in our health care delivery system are significantly altering every facet of healthcare.  Rapid advancements in technology are an integral part of today’s standard practice. Salus University keeps a steady focus on our mission not only to keep pace with these changes, but to stay ahead of them through innovative curricula, outstanding faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and leading edge technologies.

In 2011, I announced that I would be stepping down as president.  I am pleased to announce that Admiral Michael H. Mittelman, OD ’80, MPH will succeed me as the University’s sixth president.  With 32 years as a senior healthcare executive in the US Navy, Admiral Mittelman brings a wealth of experience to the position of president that includes clinical and research backgrounds.  His vision for the University – to become the nation’s leading provider of high quality, vital healthcare professionals – is very much in keeping with the Salus mission and credo.

Dr. Mittelman will begin his appointment as Salus University president sometime in late spring or the summer, 2013.  To accommodate this timing and insure a smooth transition, I will remain as president during this period.

Our success as an institution comes from combining bright, motivated students with outstanding faculty, excellent facilities, and creative and diverse learning opportunities. Your interest in Salus University indicates a desire to enter a profession currently experiencing unprecedented growth and development. I encourage you to explore our website, learn more about our programs, and, of course, join the Salus University family. The challenges will be great, but the rewards will be many.

Sincerely,

Thomas L. Lewis, OD, PhD