Mary Mitsch

Dr. Mary Mitsch is a Professor and Acting Chair of the Health Services Administration program at the University of Detroit Mercy's College of Health Professions & MSON. She retired from full-time faculty in 2023 but returned in 2025 to support accreditation, program development, and other institutional duties. Her expertise spans sudden death events, grief rituals, resilience, population health, and anthropological approaches to healthcare education.

Education:

• Ph.D., Medical Anthropology, Wayne State University
• Master of Science, Nursing, University of Pittsburgh
• Bachelor of Science, Nursing, Gannon University

Her research focuses on narrative methods, autoethnography, and the socio-cultural dimensions of sudden death. She integrates Mercy and Jesuit values into her work, emphasizing compassion and hope. Mitsch is also an end-of-life doula, further reflecting her commitment to compassionate care.