Montclair State University Appoints Ronald Werner-Wilson as New Dean of Community Health College: What This Means for Students and Community Engagement

Montclair State University has appointed Ronald Werner-Wilson as the new dean of the College for Community Health, starting June 1, 2025. He comes to Montclair from North Dakota State University, where he held various leadership roles, including dean of the College of Human Sciences and Education.

Werner-Wilson is passionate about adolescent development and family science. He believes that understanding the challenges young people face is crucial. “Adolescents are figuring out so much. They’re learning about their identities, bodies, and emotions—all while their brains are still developing,” he said. His work has focused on helping adolescents thrive during these critical years.

His commitment to community health is another reason he was drawn to Montclair. The university has a strong focus on community engagement, highlighted by its partnership with Montclair Township to create New Jersey’s first Academic Health Department. “I value that level of community involvement,” Werner-Wilson noted. He looks forward to collaborating with faculty to strengthen these efforts.

Provost Junius Gonzales expressed excitement about Werner-Wilson’s arrival, emphasizing his extensive experience in community health and research. Gonzales believes Werner-Wilson’s background will be a valuable asset as the college moves forward.

Over the years, Werner-Wilson has contributed to various universities, including the University of Kentucky and Iowa State University. At Iowa State, he led a multistate study on positive youth development, funded by the Department of Agriculture. The research explored how structured out-of-school activities can foster youth development, resulting in several published theses.

In addition to research, Werner-Wilson has authored numerous articles and a book, Developmental-Systemic Family Therapy with Adolescents, showcasing his expertise in both adolescent studies and family therapy. His educational background includes a PhD in Child and Family Development and degrees in Sociology and Psychology.

As he settles into his role at Montclair, Werner-Wilson plans to adopt a servant leadership style. He intends to prioritize listening to faculty and staff to understand how he can help them succeed. “I’m excited to join this group and eager to get started,” he said.

By embracing community engagement and focusing on adolescent well-being, Montclair State University is taking significant steps towards enhancing public health in the region. To learn more about the College for Community Health and its initiatives, visit Montclair State University’s website.

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