New dean brings leadership grounded in engagement and collaboration
By Heather Schnese S’12
May 05, 2026 | Noon
Bethel has named Sarah Westberg, PharmD, the new dean of the Anderson Family College of Health Sciences. “I am thrilled to join the Bethel community in welcoming Dr. Westberg as she brings distinguished experience and a leadership approach grounded in engagement and collaboration,” says Bethel President Ross Allen. “This comes at a time when we see tremendous opportunities for growth and expansion in the college.”
Launched in the fall 2024, the Anderson Family College of Health Sciences brings together a wide range of programs across undergraduate, adult undergraduate, and graduate education, including nursing, social work, counseling, public and community health, and physician assistant studies. As dean, Westberg will bring a strong commitment to collaboration, applied learning, and preparing students for real-world healthcare environments.
She joins Bethel from the University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy, where she has served as professor and associate dean for professional affairs. In that role, she led initiatives connecting academic programs with professional practice, strengthened partnerships across healthcare systems, and supported continuing professional development for faculty.
— Sarah Westberg, dean of the Anderson Family College of Health Sciences
“Joining the Bethel community during this season of opportunity and growth is an honor,” says Westberg. “I look forward to building on a strong foundation, integrating rigorous academic excellence with Christ-centered values to prepare graduates who will lead in providing compassionate, high-quality care for patients and communities.”
Westberg earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Drake University and completed a pharmaceutical care leadership residency at the University of Minnesota. She is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist and licensed pharmacist, served as co-associate dean of clinical affairs, and directed a large ambulatory care residency program. Her experience building partnerships and leading complex academic programs positions her to guide the college as it continues to grow and strengthen connections with healthcare systems across the region.
“The interprofessional opportunities at Bethel are substantial,” says Westberg. “Students are equipped to collaborate across professions and lead with integrity in an ever-evolving healthcare environment.” Under her leadership, the college will continue to expand Bethel’s impact in healthcare education and prepare graduates to serve with both clinical excellence and Christ-centered care.
“Dr. Sarah Westberg brings a wealth of leadership experience, connections in healthcare settings in the region and greater Minnesota, and a thoughtful and steady presence to lead the college’s diverse and growing programs,” says University Provost Robin Rylaarsdam. “I am thankful and excited for this next stage of development in the Anderson Family College of Health Sciences and look forward to collaborating together.”
Explore your calling in healthcare at Bethel
Our supportive, Christ-centered community will help you thrive as you prepare for a career that makes a difference in the world. 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.