Seon Yoon Chung: Dean, College of Nursing, at UW Oshkosh
Q: Looking back, what personal experiences or milestones have had the greatest influence on your professional success?
Growing up in Singapore, immersed in a multi-cultural environment with friends from various countries and backgrounds, exposed me to diverse perspectives and taught me the importance of openness and understanding. Despite our different backgrounds, I realized that we all share a common humanness. This realization fostered a deep appreciation and respect for different ways of thinking, which has been invaluable in my career.
Q: What do you wish more people understood about your field or industry?
I wish more people understood the complexity and collaborative nature of the higher education industry. It’s a field that requires constant adaptation and teamwork to keep up with the fast-evolving landscape. Preparing ourselves and future citizens to be lifelong learners is crucial in this environment.
Q: Can you share one of the most significant challenges you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?
One of the most significant challenges was leading a health care-oriented academic unit through the pandemic as an associate dean in charge of academics. This was a new and unprecedented challenge that required ensuring faculty were supported to pivot to online teaching, while also making sure students could effectively learn online. At the same time, it was crucial to keep everyone healthy and safe for in-person experiences such as labs and clinical rotations.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and who gave it to you?
The best piece of advice came from my parents: “Be truthful and be kind,” which is what my name means. This simple yet profound guidance has shaped my approach to life and work. It’s a reminder to always act with integrity and compassion, values that are deeply embedded in my name and identity.
Q: What legacy do you hope to leave, both in your career and in your community?
In my career, I hope to leave a legacy of dedication to the greater good and positive outcomes, particularly in the well-being and growth of people. In my community, I aspire to be a catalyst for change, inspiring others to take action and make a difference. My goal is to create a more compassionate and supportive world, where everyone’s voice is heard and valued.
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