Texas Woman’s launched the nursing program at Parkland Hospital more than 70 years ago. Today, the university system is taking another historical leap forward by appointing the first president of the T. Boone Pickens Institute of Health Sciences – Dallas Center.
Monica Christopher is a seasoned nonprofit executive and community relations professional with a disarming smile and extraordinary poise. Her engaging community spirit shines through in every conversation.
It is her passion for Texas Woman’s, combined with years of proven experience, that makes her uniquely qualified to contribute to TWU’s goal of expanding its influence and partnerships and blossoming into a thriving university system that will serve more Texans and have a greater impact on the Dallas region.
MAKING HISTORY
Christopher’s appointment marks the beginning of a new and exciting chapter for Texas Woman’s and the communities being served.
“Monica is an exceptional innovator and collaborator with a solid track record of successful fundraising and relationship building in Dallas, which will serve our university system well as we work toward growing the Dallas campus,” says Texas Woman’s Chancellor Carine M. Feyten. “She demonstrates great passion for our shared mission with polished, energetic professionalism.”
DEEP COMMUNITY ROOTS
Christopher’s Dallas roots run deep, spanning 25 years of experience in philanthropy and community relations. She has an extensive background working with boards, foundations, nonprofits and corporations, and has held key leadership positions at Communities Foundation of Texas, WFAA and The Dallas Morning News.
“I am over the moon about the opportunity to work for Texas Woman’s, and to be the first president of the Dallas campus is really special,” Christopher says. “TWU has a distinguished history in Dallas, and I am honored and beyond thrilled to serve in this capacity. I look forward to working with the university’s talented faculty, staff and students to grow the campus, build on its legacy of excellence and bring greater awareness to the outstanding degree programs offered here.”
BUILDING ON OUR STRENGTHS
Today, the T. Boone Pickens Institute of Health Sciences – Dallas Center is a 190,000-square-foot facility that sits in the heart of the Southwestern Medical District. Texas Woman’s is a notable contributor to the healthcare workforce, graduating an average of 2,000 nursing and allied health professionals each year.
The Dallas campus is also home to the university’s renowned Stroke Center, which provides more than 5,000 hours of clinical, neuro-rehabilitation services annually at no cost to members of the community. In addition to an MBA and graduate-level healthcare administration programs, the Dallas campus offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral courses and programs in nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy.
Asked how she is acclimating to her new role since taking the mantle Feb. 1, Christopher says, “The last few months have been inspiring and energizing. The faculty, staff and students have been welcoming, and I’ve been so impressed by how committed everyone is to TWU’s mission. I’m learning so much and am truly excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.”