Tim Cho, M.D., an experienced health care educator and leader, is the new dean of the School of Healthcare Professions at Newman University.
Alden Stout, vice president of Academic Affairs at Newman, shared the announcement in early May.
“With a background in respiratory care, an M.D. from the University of Cincinnati and as program director and division chair, Dr. Cho is well prepared to lead the school and support its continued growth and impact,” Stout said.
Get to know Cho
Cho first joined Newman as an adjunct faculty member while working in respiratory therapy. After transitioning full time to higher education in 2019, he served in multiple leadership roles within the respiratory care program, most recently as program director from 2022 to 2025. He was named division chair in spring 2024 before stepping into his new position as dean in summer 2025.
“After relocating to Wichita, Kansas, I had the opportunity to pursue a career in respiratory therapy,” Cho said. “It allowed me to provide high-quality, patient-centered care during some of the most vulnerable moments in a person’s life.”
As a shift manager at a Wichita hospital, Cho developed skills in budgeting, productivity metrics, human resources and culture-building — each of which transferred well into education.
Cho worked closely with longtime colleague Stacie Fox, current director of the respiratory care program, both during his time at the hospital and in Newman’s respiratory care program. The duo successfully achieved their goals to grow the program and strengthen partnerships with local high schools and career academies.
“Together, we simultaneously grew program enrollment while increasing retention,” he said. “We also maintained strong graduate outcomes, something we are both very proud of.”
Fox described Cho as a leader who creates an environment that inspires excellence.
“Tim is driven by a passion for ensuring student success,” she said. “What I have always appreciated is his ability to see potential in someone else, even before they do. I have no doubt he will be an inspiring dean who will lead not just the School of Healthcare Professions, but the university itself into the future with success and innovation.”
Inspired by another Newman leader
Cho’s decision to apply for the role of dean was largely inspired by the example of Geri Tyrell, DNP, he said. Tyrell served as dean of the School of Healthcare Professions from 2022 to 2025 and now serves as associate vice president of academic affairs.
“Her steady, compassionate leadership helped guide the school through some challenging seasons, including a program prioritization process,” Cho said. “Watching her navigate those moments with both strength and grace affirmed for me the importance of mission-driven leadership.”
Tyrell explained that as dean, Cho will oversee nearly 35% of Newman University’s student population across five academic programs. She describes him as an “exceptional leader who is thoughtful, collaborative and committed to understanding and engaging with his colleagues.”
She continued, “Tim also brings a calm and analytical approach to complex and high-pressure situations, shaped by his clinical experience. He will play a vital role in supporting students through academic challenges, helping them achieve their educational goals and mentoring them in alignment with Newman’s mission.”
Prepared, eager to serve
Cho emphasized his desire to elevate student learning in the classroom and clinical settings through meaningful and flexible approaches.
“Simulation and interdisciplinary education will remain a priority,” Cho said. “Students will gain a deeper appreciation for their health care teammates and develop communication skills to deliver quality patient care.”
Cho believes his clinical and leadership experiences, including those in a Catholic health system, have uniquely prepared him for this next chapter.
“I found that many of the core values of compassion, excellence, integrity, service to the poor and reverence aligned well with Newman’s own ideals,” he said.
Looking ahead, Cho said he is excited to collaborate with faculty, students and community partners “as we continue to grow, innovate, and serve our communities.”
Tyrell added, “I look forward to continuing to work with Tim in his new role and watching how he continues to shape the School of Healthcare Professions.”
Explore the School of Healthcare Professions
Graduates of any of Newman University’s School of Healthcare Professions programs are highly sought after by the health care community in Wichita and the region.
