Abilene Christian University (ACU) is excited to announce the appointment of Dr. Marcia Sotelo, program director and associate professor in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program, as the dean of the College of Health and Human Services. Devoted to the success of her students and raising awareness of the program, Dr. Sotelo brings a wealth of experience, knowledge and commitment to our mission of developing the next generation of Christian leaders and healthcare workers.
“We have always had the vision of expanding our university’s footprint within the healthcare sectors of our state and nationwide,” said Dr. Stephen Johnson, chief executive officer of ACU Dallas. “As we begin this phase of establishing new industry-aligned colleges to encompass our vision, we have strived to select the best candidates for dean positions to uphold and continue our growing student body, including the appointment of Dr. Marcia Sotelo.”
With an extensive background in nursing and education, Dr. Sotelo joined the ACU Online faculty in 2021 after working at various universities and technical colleges including the Baptist School of Health Professions, Grand Canyon University, Texas A&M International University and Galen College of Nursing. Within the span of her career, Dr. Sotelo has continued her professional journey by adding other major appointments to her resume including directing large-scale nursing programs and serving as a co-editor for international academic publications. In 2023, Dr. Sotelo was promoted to program director of the Doctor of Nursing Practice program.
“Dr. Sotelo has an extensive background teaching online students at the undergraduate and graduate levels,” said Dr. George Saltsman, provost and vice president for academic affairs for ACU Dallas. “She also has demonstrated experience leading educational programs, including hiring and training faculty, managing and improving curricula and obtaining and maintaining specialty and institutional accreditations.”
ACU’s College of Health & Human Services understands the vital role healthcare professionals play in our communities. As the demand for qualified and ethical practitioners continues to grow, the College of Health and Human Services educates and trains students for the workforce by deepening each student’s understanding of their identity, formation and calling alongside our comprehensive curriculum. With 15 undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs designed to prepare students for a career in health-related fields, the college will strengthen and encourage students to become community leaders who are ready to make a significant impact in healthcare and beyond.
ACU’s online programs are administered through its branch location in Dallas and include 14 bachelor’s degrees, 16 master’s degrees, three doctoral degrees, five undergraduate certificate programs and ten graduate certificate programs. For more about ACU Online, visit acu.edu/online.