Office of the President

Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences (PNWU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michael H. Mittelman as its next president. A nationally respected leader in health care and higher education, Dr. Mittelman brings a distinguished career in military medicine, academic leadership, and health system innovation to PNWU at a transformative time in the university’s history.

“It is a real honor to be named president of Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, especially at such a defining time in its evolution,” said Dr. Mittelman. “PNWU has earned a reputation for purpose-driven innovation, academic excellence, and a steadfast commitment to underserved communities. To be entrusted with leading the next chapter of that journey is both humbling and energizing.”

Dr. Mittelman, a native of Long Beach, New York, earned his Doctor of Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in 1980 and was commissioned into the U.S. Navy Medical Service Corps. He retired as a Rear Admiral following a 33-year military career, culminating in his service as Deputy Surgeon General of the Navy.

His leadership roles spanned the globe, including Command Surgeon for U.S. Joint Forces Command, Commanding Officer at U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa, Japan, and U.S. Pacific Command Surgeon, where he directed the Department of Defense’s medical response to the 2011 Fukushima disaster.

A Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the American Academy of Optometry, Dr. Mittelman holds a Master of Public Health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and an MBA from Temple University’s Fox Business School. His honors include the Legion of Merit, the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Distinguished Service Medal, and induction into the National Optometric Hall of Fame.

In 2013, Dr. Mittelman became the sixth president of Salus University, leading the institution through a decade of academic growth and interdisciplinary collaboration. Most recently, he guided the successful merger of Salus University with Drexel University in Philadelphia.

“What excites me most about PNWU’s mission is its real, community-centered impact,” Dr. Mittelman explained. “This isn’t just a timely mission — it’s a vital one. In today’s world, it’s rare to find an organization whose mission is so closely aligned with both workforce needs and social responsibility. I’ve spent my career working at the intersection of healthcare, education, and service, and I am deeply inspired by the university’s vision to expand access, address disparities, and train professionals who are committed to making a difference where it’s needed most.”

Dr. Mittelman’s approach to leadership reflects his dedication to strategic growth and partnership-building.

“My focus will be on sustaining the momentum that already exists by employing a deliberate planning process to meet our collective goals,” he said. “That means taking a strategic pause on rapid growth to ensure we have the right support and infrastructure in place. Strengthening clinical training pipelines, enhancing our research infrastructure, and deepening our community and interprofessional partnerships will remain priorities.”

His professional background has uniquely prepared him to lead PNWU’s mission-focused work.

“My 33-year career in the U.S. Navy gave me firsthand experience leading diverse teams in challenging environments across the globe,” he shared. “Later, as president of Salus University, I led major initiatives in health education and care delivery, often with a focus on access, collaboration, and innovation. Throughout my career, I’ve worked closely with underserved populations, developed programs in response to community need, and built partnerships across sectors — all of which will be essential in supporting PNWU’s mission.”

“To the entire PNWU community: I am grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I’m eager to listen, learn, and lead with you,” Dr. Mittelman added. “This is a university built on purpose, and that shared sense of mission is what makes it so special. I plan to spend my first 100 days in ‘listening mode’ to understand the key opportunities and challenges ahead. Most of all, I look forward to supporting your success — whether in the classroom, the clinic, or the communities we serve.”

Dr. Mittelman will officially assume the presidency on August 1, 2025, succeeding Interim President Dr. Robbyn Wacker, who provided dedicated leadership and service during a critical time in the university’s journey.

Gregory Mick, DO

Interim 2005-2006

Fred Tinning, PhD

Interim 2007

Stan Flemming, DO

2007-2009