KENNESAW, Ga. | Oct 14, 2026

Kennesaw State University has named Peter W. Grandjean dean of the Wellstar College of Health and Human Services (WCHHS), effective Jan. 1, 2027.

Grandjean currently serves as dean of the College of Behavioral and Health Sciences at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), where he has led efforts to strengthen academic programs, expand community partnerships, and support student success across one of the university's largest colleges.

“Dr. Peter Grandjean is an accomplished academic leader with a deep understanding of the evolving healthcare landscape and the important role universities play in preparing future professionals,” KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig said. “His commitment to student success, collaborative leadership style, and record of advancing academic excellence make him an outstanding choice to lead the Wellstar College of Health and Human Services as Kennesaw State continues its trajectory as a leading research university.”

Grandjean will lead WCHHS, which serves more than 7,000 students through nationally recognized programs in healthcare, public health, social services, and related fields. Working closely with faculty, staff, students, healthcare providers, and community partners, Grandjean will focus on advancing academic excellence, fostering student success, enhancing interdisciplinary research and collaboration, and expanding community engagement opportunities throughout Georgia. He also will help shape and execute an innovative vision for the college while addressing the state's growing workforce needs and advancing health and wellness across the region.

“Dr. Grandjean brings a demonstrated ability to connect strategic vision with meaningful outcomes,” said KSU Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs Ivan Pulinkala. “His experience leading large, multidisciplinary colleges and his commitment to innovation, partnership, and student achievement align strategically with Kennesaw State's mission and aspirations.”

Grandjean brings three-and-a-half decades of higher education experience to KSU. Prior to MTSU, Grandjean served as dean of the School of Applied Sciences at the University of Mississippi and held several leadership positions at Baylor University, including director of the Division of Health Professions and associate dean for graduate studies and research collaborations. Throughout his career, he has worked to expand academic opportunities, support faculty research, and augment connections between higher education, healthcare organizations, and community partners.

An internationally recognized scholar in exercise physiology and health sciences, Grandjean has authored more than 200 peer-reviewed publications and secured millions of dollars in external funding. He is a Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine and has received numerous professional and academic honors throughout his career.

“Kennesaw State's commitment to innovation, student achievement, and community impact makes it one of the most exciting universities in the country,” Grandjean said. “I am honored to join the Owl family and look forward to working alongside faculty, staff, students, alumni, healthcare partners, and community leaders to build on the college's momentum and create new opportunities that advance health, wellness, research, and workforce readiness throughout Georgia and beyond.”

Grandjean earned a bachelor's degree in physical education from Anderson University, a master's degree in exercise physiology from Texas Christian University, and a doctorate in kinesiology from Texas A&M University.

A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees to its more than 51,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university's vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties, and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 8 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.