Carol Beckel Joins STLCC as New Health Sciences Dean
October 21, 2025
Posted by STLCC in News Resources
The STLCC Board of Trustees recently approved the appointment of Carol Beckel, PhD, as the new dean of health sciences.
In this role, Beckel will oversee health sciences programs across STLCC’s four campuses: Forest Park, Florissant Valley, Meramec and Wildwood.
“Dr. Beckel is an excellent addition to our leadership team and we are looking forward to her work with students and our growing health sciences programs,” said Jeff L. Pittman, PhD, STLCC chancellor. “She has extensive experience working and advocating for students and a deep knowledge of the healthcare field.”
Beckel earned her bachelor’s degree in physical therapy, her master’s degree in higher education, and her doctorate in educational studies -- all from Saint Louis University. A certified physical therapist, Beckel is an experienced education leader who has recently served as the director of clinical education and associate professor of physical therapy at the Doisy College of Health Sciences at Saint Louis University. She also holds several licenses and certifications from the Missouri Board of Health Arts and American Physical Therapy Association, including certification as a credentialed clinical instructor trainer – level 2.
Beckel’s practice background is in acute, rehab, skilled nursing, home health, school-based physical therapy as well as pro bono practice both in the U.S. and Belize. During her 10 years of clinical practice, she also served as a clinical instructor for physical therapy students at all preparation levels and from diverse academic programs. Dr. Beckel is also involved in national clinical education through the APTA Academy of Education and the American Council of Physical Therapy Education.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Beckel has received honors from the APTA as its Distinguished Physical Therapy award recipient, Helen Holzum Whealen Service Award from the Missouri Physical Therapy Association, and Saint Louis University Woman of the Year.
Beckel joins the College at an exciting time as STLCC has opened three new state-of-the-art Nursing and Health Sciences Centers on three of its campuses: Forest Park, Florissant Valley and Wildwood. The health sciences programs are among the College’s most popular, seeing a 200 percent increase in enrollment over the last year. Some of the programs offered include nursing, physical and occupational therapy assistant, emergency medical services, diagnostic imaging, respiratory care, and dental hygiene.
