Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing Professor Lisa Muirhead will take on the role of interim dean of the School of Nursing after current School of Nursing Dean Linda McCauley (79N) will retire at the conclusion of 2025.
During McCauley’s tenure, U.S. News & World Report ranked the School of Nursing’s master’s program No. 1 for the last three years.
Muirhead first came to Emory in 2012 and currently serves as the senior associate dean for enrollment, student affairs and organizational engagement at the School of Nursing. As a fellow of both the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Academy of Nursing, throughout her career Muirhead has focused on improving healthcare for veterans and underrepresented communities.
Executive Vice President for Woodruff Health Sciences and Emory Healthcare CEO Joon Lee said that Muirhead “represents the very best of Emory.”
“Her leadership will help shape the future of nursing education and strengthen our shared vision of One Emory — where discovery, education and clinical care come together to improve lives,” Lee said.
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Badia Ahad said that Muirhead will help steward a “legacy of extraordinary impact and service.”
“Dr. Muirhead has a deep commitment to preparing the next generation of nurses and nurse leaders,” Ahad said.
Emory has undergone a series of turnovers of multiple senior leadership positions in 2025. On Sept. 1, Gregory Fenves stepped down as university president and transitioned to the role of chancellor. Moreover, Ravi Thadhani, executive vice president for health affairs at Emory University and vice chair of the Emory Healthcare Board of Directors, left his position on July 1.
While interim dean, Muirhead said she is committed to “improving health for all.”
“Our school’s reputation has been built by generations of visionary leaders, exceptional faculty and dedicated students who have advanced the science and practice of nursing across the globe,” Muirhead said. “Together, we will continue to prepare nurse leaders who bring knowledge, compassion and courage to every setting where care and advocacy are needed.”
