Prime Highlights:
- Karen Cox retiresafter nearly 40 years in healthcare and nursing education, leaving a legacy of growth and impact.
- Under her leadership, Chamberlain University became the largest nursing school in the U.S., serving thousands of students across online and physical campuses.
Key Facts:
- Dr. Karen Cox served as president of the American Academy of Nursingfrom 2017 to 2019 and is a board member of the DAISY Foundation.
- She began her career as a licensed practical nurseand previously held leadership roles at Children’s Mercy Kansas City, helping the hospital achieve Magnet designation in 2003.
Key Background:
Dr. Karen Cox, President of Chamberlain University, is retiring after nearly 40 years in healthcare and nursing education. Since 2018, she has helped the university become the largest nursing school in the U.S. Today, the university serves nearly 40,000 students across 24 campuses and online programs and remains the leading grantor of Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees nationwide.
“Karen has led Chamberlain University through a period of significant growth while maintaining our commitment to academic excellence and student success,” said Steve Beard, chairman and CEO of Adtalem Global Education. “Her focus on innovation in nursing education has enabled us to prepare graduates who make an impact across healthcare organizations, and we deeply appreciate her contributions.”
Dr. Karen Cox’s leadership journey began as a licensed practical nurse and progressed through leadership roles at Children’s Mercy Kansas City, where she served as nurse manager, chief nursing officer, and EVP/COO. She led the hospital to earn Magnet designation in 2003, the first in Missouri and the surrounding region.
Dr. Karen Cox has also made important contributions to nursing, serving as president of the American Academy of Nursing from 2017 to 2019 and as a board member of the DAISY Foundation.
Reflecting on her tenure, Dr. Karen Cox said, “Leading Chamberlain University has been a meaningful part of my career. Our dedication to academic excellence and student success has created a community that opens doors, changes lives, and embraces a culture of care throughout the student journey.”
Adtalem Global Education has initiated a search for Dr. Karen Cox successor with Spencer Stuart, ensuring a smooth leadership transition while continuing the university’s mission of advancing healthcare education.
