Dr. Angela Ritchie was recently appointed the inaugural assistant dean for admissions and enrollment management with the IU School of Dentistry (IUSD), effective September 1, 2025. This newly created role reflects the school’s commitment to proactively address evolving enrollment trends and will provide strategic leadership in recruitment, analytics, retention, and admissions.
Ritchie, a clinical associate professor and board-certified oral pathologist, teaches predoctoral dental and graduate students, practices in the internal faculty practice, and directs the school’s oral pathology biopsy service. She also brings a wealth of leadership experience shaped by university and professional development programs—talents she demonstrates through service and leadership within the school.
“Dr. Ritchie brings multiple years of experience, having served as chair of the school’s admissions committee as well as president of the faculty council,” said Dr. Sylvia Frazier-Bowers, IUSD’s associate dean for student affairs and admissions. “The assistant dean position stands to benefit greatly from the convergence of leadership and insight cultivated through these two pivotal roles.”
Noting challenges impacting today’s educational landscape, Frazier-Bowers added, “This position is a timely response to changes surrounding admissions and financial resources for our students. We must ensure we have qualified and capable students—and future professionals-—to serve the community.”
As part of this transition, associate professor Dr. Joan Kowolik, who has served as the school’s admissions and recruitment director, will shift her focus to teaching in the pediatric dentistry department—a role she has continued to fulfill throughout her admissions leadership.
“Dr. Kowolik navigated dental school admissions through one of its most difficult and unprecedented times—the COVID-19 pandemic,” noted Dean Carol Anne Murdoch-Kinch. “Her ability to successfully steer the school through that tough time is commendable. Her contributions eventually led to creation of a new office within the school, and she has left an indelible mark on our previous and current successes.”
Ritchie is eager to build on this foundation, emphasizing a holistic approach to admissions that values both academic excellence and a commitment to patient care and the profession.
“My vision is to create a transparent, student-centered admissions experience that attracts stellar applicants,” Ritchie said, “and ensures the long-term success of both our students and the school.”