Cindy J. Rishel Appointed Interim Dean of University of Arizona College of Nursing
Effective June 10, 2026, Cindy J. Rishel, PhD, RN, OCN, NEA-BC, has been appointed interim dean of the U of A College of Nursing.
As a clinical professor in the College of Nursing, Rishel brings more than 50 years of experience in nursing, healthcare administration, leadership, and higher education to the role. Throughout her career, she has held a range of clinical and executive leadership roles, spanning healthcare operations, quality improvement, strategic planning, clinical education, and organizational development.
Since joining the faculty in 2011, Rishel has spent more than 15 years educating and mentoring future nurses and healthcare leaders. She earned her doctoral degree from the University of Arizona College of Nursing and has played a key role in advancing leadership education at the college.
Rishel was instrumental in developing the college's Executive Health Systems Leadership Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program and currently serves as its specialty coordinator. Through her teaching, mentorship, and leadership, she has helped prepare doctoral students and healthcare professionals to lead organizational change, improve patient outcomes, and strengthen healthcare systems.
In recognition of her impact as an educator and mentor, Rishel received the 2022 DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators, honoring nursing faculty who inspire students through excellence in teaching, mentorship, and professional role modeling.
Dr. Rishel's extensive leadership experience, deep commitment to student success, and longstanding service to the College of Nursing make her exceptionally well suited to lead the College of Nursing through this transition,” said Patricia A. Prelock, U of A provost and chief academic officer. “Her understanding of the college's mission, programs, and community will help ensure continuity and support the college's continued momentum and success.”
Rishel said she is honored to serve the college in this new capacity.
“The College of Nursing has a long tradition of excellence in education, research, clinical practice, and service,” Rishel said. “I look forward to working with our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners as we advance nursing education, prepare future nurse leaders, improve the health of the communities we serve, and honor our legacy as a premier College of Nursing.”
As interim dean, Rishel will oversee the continued advancement of the college's academic, research, and service missions and support strategic priorities aligned with the university's vision and goals.
Rishel succeeds Hyochol Brian Ahn, PhD, who served as dean of the College of Nursing from May 2023 to June 2026.
A national search for the college's next permanent dean is expected to begin this fall.