Bethel announces inaugural dean of the Anderson Family College of Health Sciences
By Heather Schnese S’12, content specialist
April 23, 2025 | 10 a.m.
“Christians are uniquely called to engage in healthcare not only as a profession but as a profound service to others and God. It’s a way to live out compassion, bring justice to the underserved, and serve as a visible witness of God’s love,” says Matthew Vraa, the inaugural dean of the Anderson Family College of Health Sciences. This belief, deeply rooted in his personal faith, will help Bethel become the premier Christ-centered college of health in the Midwest—equipping future healthcare professionals to be salt and light in a field that offers profound opportunities to reflect Jesus’ healing ministry.
Announced last October, thanks to a generous $20 million gift from the Anderson family, the new college combines Bethel’s healthcare-related courses and departments from the College of Arts & Sciences as well as the College of Adult & Professional Studies and Graduate School. This synergy provides more opportunity for collaboration with local healthcare systems and increases Bethel’s ability to do interprofessional training—preparing graduates more effectively for careers in healthcare.
“Dr. Vraa brings a fantastic combination of experiences and perspectives. He loves learning, and has continued to use formal and informal education to grow throughout his career,” says University Provost Robin Rylaarsdam. “He will be a wonderful addition to Bethel’s mission as he integrates his faith into the entirety of his leadership starting with academic programs that aim to emulate Christ in the service-centered focus of work with students and among colleagues.”
With over 15 years of experience in higher education, Vraa has held leadership roles at Manchester University, Northwest University, Concordia University St. Paul, and more. He is a licensed physical therapist; has two terminal degrees (Ph.D., D.Sc.), a clinical doctorate (DPT), and an MBA; has overseen multiple program launches; and led efforts to secure and restore accreditations. Vraa is also a recognized researcher, author, and speaker. His research interests center on aligning healthcare education with mission, vision, and values—perfectly suited for Bethel’s holistic, purpose-driven approach for the new college. Additionally, his experience in physical therapy education and practice will be invaluable as Bethel develops that program, and his expertise in completing accreditation work is key as two major programs undergo reaccreditation review in 2026.
— Robin Rylaarsdam, university provost
Naming Dean Vraa is the next step in the full launch of the college and coincides with Bethel’s ongoing efforts to make tuition straightforward and transparent for families. Breaking from the industry standards of inflated figures and deep discounts, Bethel’s tuition repositioning helps families plan with clarity and confidence. It also makes gifts like the Andersons’—which includes scholarships to attract future leaders, regardless of financial need—stretch even further, making Bethel more attainable for more students.
“This marks the beginning of a time where the college develops a unique culture and reputation to drive the thriving of not only the Anderson Family College of Health Sciences, but the university as a whole,” says Rylaarsdam. “Dr. Vraa’s collaborative and forward-looking leadership will set the direction for expansion of enrollment, reputation, and impact—both in our current excellent programs and the ones that will be developed in the future.”
Explore your calling in healthcare at Bethel
Our supportive, Christ-centered community will help you thrive as you prepare to be salt and light in the healthcare industry. Discover how Bethel graduates are excelling in healthcare in a wide variety of undergraduate majors and minors, graduate programs, and adult and professional studies—all designed to help you become who you’re meant to be.