John Tegzes Named Interim Dean at WesternU as Phillip Nelson Retires

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Academic Officer. “Dr. Tegzes’ years of experience in interprofessional education and student-centric training, coupled with his nationally recognized expertise in team building, will serve him well as we go through this leadership transition.”

Western University of Health Sciences has named John Tegzes, MA, VMD, Dipl. ABVT, as the interim dean for the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM). Dr. Tegzes succeeds Dean Phillip Nelson, who retired after 15 years in the role.

Dr. Tegzes is a CVM professor of toxicology and the director of WesternU’s Interprofessional Practice and Education (IPE) program. He earned his veterinary degree from the University of Pennsylvania, as well as a master’s in applied psychology from the University of Santa Monica and a bachelor’s in nursing from Thomas Jefferson University, where he graduated magna cum laude. He is a licensed veterinarian and a registered nurse in the state of California.

“I would like to thank Dr. Tegzes for stepping into this leadership role at a pivotal time for CVM and the veterinary medicine profession,” said Paula Crone, WesternU Interim Provost and Chief

Dr. Tegzes joined CVM in 2003, the year of the inaugural CVM class. Over the course of his 19-year career, he has taught numerous courses and served on many different committees. He is the author of hundreds of peer-reviewed publications and is a national leader in the veterinary medicine profession.

Dr. Nelson became Dean of WesternU’s CVM in 2005, taking over for founding dean Dr. Shirley Johnston. He led the college through a period of growth and was instrumental in diversifying both the student body and faculty. He served as the president of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges from 2017–2018.