Dean / Age 39
University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
Seon Yoon Chung’s most significant professional challenge “was leading a health care-oriented academic unit through the pandemic as an associate dean in charge of academics,” says Chung, who was with Illinois State University at the time. This unprecedented event required a major pivot to online learning, and “at the same time, it was crucial to keep everyone healthy and safe for in-person experiences such as labs and clinical rotations.”
Chung says she kept ahead of the tide by reviewing international trends, anticipating changes and communicating with everyone involved. “Throughout this process, I never lost sight of the importance of people’s well‑being, making it a priority to support both faculty and students during this difficult time,” she says.
Now in her role as dean of UW Oshkosh’s College of Nursing, Chung says most rewarding is “seeing the tangible impact of my work on the community and the people I collaborate with,” whether that’s a successful project launch or a positive change in team dynamics.
Chung says growing up in Singapore “equipped me to navigate and thrive in new environments, build strong relationships with people from various backgrounds, and approach challenges with a global mindset.”
Be sure to visit Insight’s Portraits of Success: 40 Under 40 at The Art Garage in Green Bay from May 30–June 1 to see each honoree’s official 40 Under 40 portrait!
