Melissa Yandell

Melissa Yandell is an Assistant Professor and Associate Director for Operations in the Master of Health Administration (MHA) program at the Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). She oversees recruitment, program evaluation, and integrates experiential learning into healthcare management education. Her roles combine academic leadership with practical training for future healthcare leaders.

• Education: Ph.D. in Health Administration and Education (William Carey University), M.H.A. (UAMS), B.S. Biology with Business Management minor (University of Central Arkansas).

Research interests focus on ethical and effective healthcare management strategies. Teaching emphasizes leadership development through competency-based programs blending theory and practice. Certified in project management, lean culture, and ethics, she also holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt.

Prior to academia, she spent 8 years in healthcare practice at Baptist Health, advancing through leadership roles including program development. She transitioned to academia to focus on nurturing future healthcare leaders.