USciences President Paul Katz Announces Retirement
Editor's note: This article was written prior to University of the Sciences' merger with and into Saint Joseph's University and does not reflect the current, combined institution. References to programs, offices, colleges, employees, etc., may be historical information.
University of the Sciences President Paul Katz, MD, announced his retirement effective next month. Dr. Katz began his tenure as the historic University’s 25th president in 2016.
“I am so honored to have served as president of this great institution and proud to have worked with our accomplished faculty, dedicated staff members, and exceptional students,” said Dr. Katz. “Together we have accomplished so much to help ensure the furtherance of the USciences mission to educate future generations. I feel now, as we are poised to begin a new chapter in our illustrious history, that it is the appropriate time for me to step away. I have confidence in our team to lead USciences into a sustainable, bright, and positive future.”
The University’s Board of Trustees announced that Valerie Weil, MD, Chief Financial and Operating Officer, will serve as interim president of USciences effective July 3. In her capacity, Dr. Weil will lead USciences as the University and Saint Joseph’s University move toward completing a merger agreement.
In his five years as president, Dr. Katz has implemented and executed a strategic plan which positions USciences to continue its mission and legacy into the future. Earlier this month, Dr. Katz and Saint Joseph’s University President Dr. Mark Reed signed an agreement to merge USciences with and into SJU. This combined institution will provide students access to in-demand programs in health and the sciences while leveraging exceptional student life, liberal arts education, and Division I athletics. Dr. Katz will continue to support the University as a consultant and advisor during integration planning.
Under Dr Katz’ leadership, USciences lowered and fixed tuition in 2018, setting the standard for price transparency with an eye toward strengthening accessibility for the next generation of healthcare leaders. Katz also oversaw the expansion of campus with the opening of Living & Learning Commons, a state-of-the-art residence hall. As president, he launched USciences Online, a new division with fully-online degree and certificate programs, broadening academic offerings and providing flexibility to new students. Dr. Katz was essential in leading the University through the COVID-19 pandemic and in the celebration of its Bicentennial Year.
“My fellow Trustees and I are so thankful to Dr. Katz for his years of service and countless contributions to the USciences family. Most notably, his visionary leadership has helped us to ensure there is a sustainable future for our students,” said Jim Rivard, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “He has shown his commitment to our mission of preparing students to become leaders, innovators, and skilled practitioners in science and health professions with exceptional and accessible education.”
Prior to his role at USciences, Dr. Katz served as founding dean of Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, the first new MD-granting medical school in New Jersey in more than 40 years. He has held a variety of other executive leadership positions including as founding vice dean at The Commonwealth Medical College in Scranton, PA, where he helped to launch the new medical school and enrolled its first class in 2009. Dr. Katz has held a variety of other positions within medical schools and health systems and received his medical degree from the Georgetown University School of Medicine.