Embedded Files
"Junior Colleges Big Success" 1971 Atlanta Constitution article highlighting the Nursing Program's success.
Dr. John Stephens , supervising dentist, and Mrs. Doris Bates, director of Dental Hygiene and Nursing , inspecting newly delivered equipment to the Clayton Junior College dental hygiene clinic in 1971, before the program began.
Dr. Lisa Eichelberger, College of Health Dean, pictured with patient simulator equipment in 1995.
The Evolution of the Clayton State University College of Health
The Evolution of the Clayton State University College of Health
The story of the College of Health begins in 1969, when Clayton Junior College launched a two‑year Nursing Program within the Division of Science and Mathematics’ Career Programs track. Students completed one year of general education followed by one year of nursing instruction, graduating with an Associate of Arts in Nursing.
In 1970, the college expanded its healthcare offerings by adding the Dental Hygiene Associate’s Degree Program, also under the Career Programs track. Just one year later, in 1971, the first full class of nursing students graduated.
Building the Foundation: 1973–1975
In 1973, the institution created the Division of Health Sciences, grouping Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Health Science courses under the leadership of Dr. Doris Bates.
This structure shifted again in 1975, when the division was dissolved and the Nursing and Dental Hygiene departments returned to the Division of Science and Mathematics. During this period:
Dr. Leonard Schreiber became head of Dental Hygiene
Mrs. Jimmie Ruth Coffey became head of Nursing
Growth and Academic Expansion: 1980s
Growth and Academic Expansion: 1980s
By 1987, the Nursing program had graduated 900 nurses with associate degrees. That same year marked a major turning point:
Clayton State became a four‑year state college in 1986
The institution began offering the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Clayton State reorganized into four schools, placing Nursing, Dental Hygiene, and Health Science courses under the newly formed School of Health, led by Dean Robert Puddy
Graduate Education and a New Identity: 2008–Present
Graduate Education and a New Identity: 2008–Present
The School of Health continued to expand its academic reach:
2008 — Introduced the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
2009 — Renamed the College of Health, with Dr. Lisa Wright Eichelberger appointed as Dean
Today, the College of Health includes:
Nursing
Dental Hygiene
Health Management
Master of Health Administration (MHA)
Under the continued leadership of Dr. Lisa Eichelberger, the College remained committed to preparing healthcare professionals who serve diverse communities through advanced techniques, evidence‑based practice, and state‑of‑the‑art training.
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