Walsh University VP Michael Dunphy to retire after 40 years

Walsh University has announced the upcoming retirement of longtime professor and administrator Dr. Michael Dunphy, vice president for academic affairs, at the conclusion of the 2025-26 academic year. While stepping down from his administrative role, Dunphy will remain involved with the university through collaborative research within the Division of Mathematics and Sciences.

A full professor since 1995, Dunphy has made enduring contributions to research and academic development. He helped establish Walsh’s Skilled Technical Workforce initiative, which equips students and professionals with essential skills for technology-driven industries, and secured $1.2 million in Shimadzu analytical equipment to enhance research and teaching capabilities. His research in analytical biochemistry and biotechnology — particularly in nitric oxide biochemistry and bioactive molecule analysis — has been featured in national conferences and publications. He has also partnered with Abbott Laboratories on projects involving biomarker testing, diagnostic assay validation and biotechnological instrumentation.

As vice president, Dunphy has provided leadership for four academic schools, more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs, and nearly 100 full-time faculty members. He has also overseen several academic centers and offices, including Institutional Effectiveness and Assessment, Library Services, Student Support, the Registrar, Grants and Research, and Cross-Enterprise Operations. Working collaboratively with the President’s Cabinet, he has played a central role in advancing Walsh 4.0, the university’s strategic vision focused on student success and service to the common good. Under his leadership, Walsh has expanded academic offerings, integrated artificial intelligence and data analytics into programs, developed partnerships with other Catholic institutions, launched an international degree program in Vietnam and strengthened operational efficiency across academic departments.

“Dr. Dunphy’s impact is inspiring,” said Walsh University President Tim Collins. “For more than four decades, he has emulated servant leadership and academic excellence integrated with an abiding commitment to our mission. His legacy is already reflected in the lives of the coaches, faculty, staff and students he touched. Walsh University is better and stronger within the domain of Catholic higher education because of Mike — we are grateful for his life’s work with us, and he will be missed.”

A 1979 alumnus of Walsh College, Dunphy earned his Bachelor of Science in chemistry before completing a Master of Science in chemistry from Youngstown State University in 1982 and a Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Akron in 1990. He returned to his alma mater in 1985 as a chemistry faculty member, beginning a 40-year career characterized by mentorship, innovation and dedication to student success.

In 1990, Dunphy was appointed division chair of mathematics and sciences, where he advanced faculty research and the growth of the sciences. He later served as dean of the School of Arts and Sciences beginning in 2016 and was named vice president for academic affairs in 2020.

Renowned as a mentor and educator, Dunphy has guided hundreds of students through research, honors theses and graduate preparation. Beyond the classroom, he is celebrated for his warmth, energy and commitment to developing others. A nationally recognized speaker and leadership coach, he has led professional programs for organizations such as Pfizer, American Express, Disney, Johnson & Johnson and Canada Post, sharing his expertise in emotional intelligence, conflict resolution and leadership development.

“Walsh has been my professional home for more than four decades,” Dunphy said. “It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to serve this university, our faculty and our students. I am deeply grateful for the friendships, collaborations and shared sense of purpose that have shaped my journey here. While I look forward to the next chapter, I’m thankful to remain connected to Walsh and continue contributing to its mission.”

A national search for Dunphy’s successor will begin later this academic year.