New leadership appointments for HHS programs in Indianapolis

Written By: Casey Dexter, casey38@purdue.edu

Writing/Editing Contributed By: Denise Buhrmester, buhrmest@purdue.edu

The Purdue University College of Health and Human Sciences (HHS) announces two key administrative leadership appointments that will further advance HHS academic programs, strategic partnerships and operations at Purdue University in Indianapolis.

Effective Aug. 17, Tim Gavin, professor of health and kinesiology, will serve as HHS’ associate dean for Indianapolis and strategic initiatives, and Amanda Cecil, clinical professor of hospitality and tourism management, will serve as HHS’ inaugural assistant dean of Indianapolis programs.

As associate dean for Indianapolis and strategic initiatives, Gavin will lead strategic initiatives, educational partnerships and broad stakeholder engagement across West Lafayette and Indianapolis while overseeing HHS’ expanding footprint in Indianapolis.

Gavin brings over a decade of administrative leadership to his associate dean position, having served as head of the Department of Health and Kinesiology from 2012-25. During his tenure, he successfully spearheaded the creation of new degree programs, including the Master of Science in Athletic Training and Master of Science in Sport Management programs in Indianapolis.

“Professor Gavin has maintained a distinguished track record of extramurally funded, community-engaged research and active leadership within the Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute,” said Aaron Bowman, dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences. “His extensive experience in program development, faculty mentorship and institutional strategic planning makes him ideally suited to drive our mission forward.”

As the inaugural assistant dean of Indianapolis programs, Cecil will focus directly on the operational execution, student success, marketing, communications and administration of HHS undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Indianapolis, working in close collaboration with the HHS dean’s office and department-level leadership across the college and reporting to Gavin.

Cecil joined Purdue in January 2026 as a clinical professor and associate head of the White Lodging-J.W. Marriott, Jr. School of Hospitality and Tourism Management — roles she will continue to maintain. She played a pivotal role in launching the hospitality and tourism management major in Indianapolis for fall 2026.

“Prior to joining Purdue, Professor Cecil was a tenured professor at Indiana University Indianapolis, where she spent seven years as department chair and graduate director in tourism, event and sport management,” said Bowman. “Her deep expertise in academic administration, curriculum development and industry leadership will be instrumental in ensuring seamless operations and outstanding student outcomes in Indianapolis.”