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Donald M. Peace Jr.
College of Health Professions
College of Health Professions
Dean, College of Health Professions
dpeace@andersonuniversity.edu
(864) 231-5513
Vandiver 103
Academic Background
Dr. Donald M. Peace is Dean of the College of Health Professions and Professor at Anderson University, where he leads five schools encompassing allied health, human performance, nursing, physical therapy, and clinical laboratory sciences along with management of the Center for Medical Simulations and Human Anatomy Laboratory. His leadership emphasizes inter-professional education, experiential learning, and community engagement.
AS in Respiratory Therapy, Columbus State University
BAS in Respiratory Therapy, Thomas A. Edison State University
Certificate of Public Health Leadership, The University of Alabama-Birmingham
The Management Academy for Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill
MS in Administration- Concentration in Health Services Administration, Central Michigan University
Ph.D in Human Services with a specialization in Health Care Administration, Capella University
Fast Facts
A faculty member should teach at Anderson University for a variety of compelling reasons, encompassing its mission, values, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth. We are proudly able to integrate our faith values into this learning environment. Anderson University’s commitment to integrating faith and learning provides a unique opportunity for faculty to explore the connections between their disciplines and Christian values, fostering a deeper and more meaningful educational experience for students. This resonates with faculty who value a holistic approach to education. Even though this is important in all facets of higher education, I think it is critical in healthcare education.
I feel that our faculty members prioritize student success at Anderson University, administratively we strive to provide faculty with the resources and support needed to mentor and guide students academically and personally. Small class sizes often allow for more individualized attention, enhancing the teaching and learning process.
In my almost ten years of full time service at Anderson University, I feel we are able to cultivate a strong sense of community among faculty, staff, and students….and this is very important to me. This collaborative and supportive environment fosters professional growth, encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, and makes it easier to find mentors and collaborators.
Without a doubt, as a faculty member at Anderson University, our primary focus is on teaching excellence. Faculty are encouraged to innovate in the classroom, develop engaging pedagogical approaches, and prioritize student learning. This emphasis makes it an ideal environment for those passionate about teaching. As a note, we also celebrate with our students when we see them successful after graduation.
I love this campus!!!! We also have a very beautiful campus, our campus provides a peaceful and inspiring setting for teaching and learning.
In summary, I feel that Anderson University offers faculty a fulfilling and rewarding career where they can integrate their faith with their work, prioritize teaching, mentor students, engage in professional development, and be part of a supportive community.
A career in healthcare, healthcare leadership, and the human services fields holds immense significance for individuals and society alike.
Healthcare professionals directly impact individuals’ health and well-being, from preventing illness to treating disease and providing comfort during end-of-life care. This direct, personal impact is a profound source of meaning for many in these fields…..and yes, you can do this!!!!! Healthcare workers offer compassionate care and support during vulnerable times, reducing suffering and improving quality of life. This human connection is essential to the healing process. As a healthcare professional, we have the opportunity to educate and empower patients to take control of their health, promoting self-care and healthy behaviors.
Healthcare and public health professionals work to prevent the spread of disease, promote healthy lifestyles, and address community health needs. This is crucial for the overall health and safety of populations.
Healthcare leaders work to address health inequities and ensure that everyone has access to quality care, regardless of their background or circumstances. Healthcare executives work to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and accessibility of healthcare systems, ensuring that resources are used wisely and that care is delivered effectively. Yes, this is something you can do……make it a reality.
My career reflects a sustained commitment to excellence in healthcare leadership, administration, and clinical practice, marked by significant professional achievements. I have a proud member of the American College of Healthcare Executives. I have been able to serve this organization as a member since the early 1990’s, I serve on the South Carolina Board of Trust, I served as a Regent to the Board of Governor’s (nationally) . I’ve been the recipient of the Service Award, the Regent Award, the Senior Healthcare Executive Award, and the ACHE Distinguished Service Award. I’m a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and possess the FACHE credential. I currently am on the Editorial Board of Healthcare Executive, a journal produced by the American College of Healthcare Executives.
I am a Registered Respiratory Therapist and hold a license as a Respiratory Care Practitioner with the S.C. Labor, Licensing and Regulation’s State Board of Medical Examiners. I served as past Board Chair, Respiratory Care Committee (State Board of Medical Examiners). I am a member of the American Association for Respiratory Care, where I have been a member since 1982.
I am certified through the National Grant Writers Association and serve as a Certified Grant Consultant,
Certified Grant Reviewer, and Senior Certified Grant Writer.
I have served as a Certified Circuit Court Juvenile Arbitrator/ Civil Mediator. 10th Circuit Court of South Carolina.
As Dean of the College of Health Professions and also Professor at Anderson University. I find the opportunity to influence and educate the next generation of healthcare providers is a significant source of satisfaction to me. Seeing students develop their skills and embark on successful careers can be incredibly rewarding whether nursing, allied health, pathology, physical therapy, or human performance. These professionals are making a difference in the lives of others and I get to be a part of that.
I particularly enjoy, developing new programs, expanding existing ones, and ensuring the College of Health Professions relevance to the evolving healthcare landscape provides a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
I thoroughly enjoy working with faculty and staff to achieve shared goals, fostering a collaborative environment, and supporting their professional growth. I also find that connecting the College with the local healthcare community, building partnerships, and addressing community health needs provides a sense of making a real difference.
But at a professor, guiding students’ intellectual and personal development, helping them discover their passions, and seeing them succeed is deeply rewarding to me. I have the opportunity to share my 45+ years of expertise, ignite students’ curiosity, and hopefully create a love of learning can be a source of great satisfaction for the rest of their lives.
At AU, we also have the unique opportunity to connect our faith with teaching. This is a very meaningful aspect of working at a faith-based institution like Anderson University. You quickly learn how important this is in your career when you do not come from this background at work. I also find that collaborating with colleagues, and being part of a vibrant intellectual community is personally enriching. This keeps me focused on what is important to me.
As a clinician, healthcare executive, and as a academic, my specialization lies at the intersection of health professions education, healthcare administration, and public health, with a distinct focus on leadership and ethics. As an academic leader, I have shaped health professions education through curriculum development, faculty oversight, and strategic planning within a college of diverse health disciplines. My extensive healthcare administration background encompasses budget management, operational oversight, and building partnerships with regional healthcare providers. This practical experience constructs my academic leadership, ensuring programs meet community needs and prepare students for real-world challenges.
My background in public health, particularly in emergency preparedness, adds another dimension. Experience leading regional preparedness initiatives, managing budgets, and collaborating with diverse organizations crafted my ability to address complex public health issues. Throughout my career, I have emphasized ethical considerations in healthcare, shaping future leaders who prioritize ethical decision-making. My leadership extends beyond academia, as evidenced by extensive community engagement and service on numerous boards. This commitment to community well-being reinforces my dedication to improving health outcomes through education, administration, and public health initiatives.
Healthcare Executive (Journal) Editorial Board, American College of Healthcare Executives (2023-2026)
- Bulzoni, V., Cefali, K., Krishnamoorthy, S., Napier, R., Peace, D., Rose, J., Stechschulte, P., Witt, D. (2014). A review of select Medicaid optout states. American Institute of Higher Education, 9th International Conference Proceedings.
- Bulzoni, V., Doughty, C., Krishnamoorthy, S., Napier, R., Pardo, P., Peace, D. Rose, J. (2012). A review of Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. American Institute of Higher Education, 1st Online International Conference Proceedings.
- Peace, D. (2011). Central line associated blood stream infections in South Carolina: A correlational study of bed capacity, surveillance techniques, and therapeutic processes. Doctoral Dissertation.
- Peace, D. (2010). Ethical dilemmas associated with vaccination: a public health perspective. Rutland Institute for Ethics Issues and Perspectives, 2(1), 1-2.
- Porter, D. & Peace, D. (2009). Regional mass fatalities exercises: Lessons learned. International Association of Emergency Managers Bulletin, 26(11), 17-18.
- Peace, D. (2002, Autumn). Big Smiles for Little Scholars. The National AHEC Bulletin, 19(1).
- Peace, D. (1995, February). RCPs Stop Hospital’s Nosocomial Infections, Advances for Respiratory Care.
- Peace, D. (1994). Utilization of barriers for nosocomial infection control of the mechanically ventilated patient in the critical care units of Anderson Area Medical Center- A cost analysis. Master’s Thesis.
- Peace, D. (1992, April). Hygroscopic Condenser Humidifiers in Patients with Artificial Airways. Advances in Respiratory Care.
