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Office of the President

Meet Lori Werth,
PhD, MS
President of Rocky Vista University


A personal letter from the President of Rocky Vista University

At RVU, we believe exceptional healthcare begins with exceptional education. Our mission extends beyond teaching clinical knowledge and technical skills. We are dedicated to developing compassionate, ethical, and highly skilled professionals who improve the health and well-being of the communities they serve. Through innovative classroom experiences, cutting-edge technology, and hands-on learning, we prepare students to lead in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.

As a first-generation immigrant, I personally experienced the transformative power of education and the profound impact healthcare professionals have on individuals, families, and communities. My journey in higher education and academic leadership was shaped by the opportunities that education provides and by a deep appreciation for the physicians, educators, and mentors who dedicate their lives to serving others. These experiences continue to inspire me at RVU as we prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.

My commitment to healthcare education is also deeply personal. As the parent of a first-year osteopathic medical student, I understand the dedication, sacrifice, and resilience required to pursue a career in medicine. That experience has deepened my appreciation for the osteopathic tradition of caring for the whole person, which is central to RVU’s approach to education. I also understand the importance of providing an educational experience that supports students both inside and outside the classroom.

As we look to the future, Rocky Vista University continues to foster opportunities for students and communities alike. From advancing interprofessional education to preparing skilled, compassionate clinicians and scientists across every program we offer, we remain committed to innovation, collaboration, and addressing the critical workforce needs of the communities we serve.

Thank you for being part of the RVU community. Together, we are advancing healthcare, strengthening communities, and transforming lives.

President Lori Werth Signature

Lori Werth, PhD, MS
President
Rocky Vista University

Outside of RVU Colorado Campus

Strategic Planning

Spearheaded by the Office of the President, strategic planning is a collaborative process that welcomes continuous contributions from all members of the RVU community. Each Strategic Plan is comprised of three pillars that guide and support the achievement of our vision and mission objectives: Academics, Leadership, and Growth.

Dr. Werth: A career marked by excellence in medical education 

Most recently, Dr. Werth served as Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer at the University of Pikeville, where she oversaw Advancement and Alumni Relations, Admissions, and the university’s colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, Optometry, and Dental Medicine. She led strategic initiatives focused on healthcare education, workforce development, and expanding access to care.

Previously, Lori served nearly eight years as Provost and Chief Academic Officer, leading academic innovation, enrollment growth, accreditation efforts, and student success initiatives. In 2022, she was named a Fulbright Scholar and studied Japan’s education system while building international partnerships.

Throughout her career, Dr. Werth has championed innovation, research, and workforce development, including helping establish the Tanner College of Dental Medicine and the Sachdeva Research and Entrepreneurship Incubator.

A first-generation college graduate and Romanian immigrant, Dr. Werth is passionate about expanding educational opportunity, advancing healthcare workforce development, and improving access to care in underserved communities.

She and her husband, Dr. Eric Werth, have three daughters: Erica, Emily, and Ellie, and are excited to welcome future son-in-law Zac to the family. Their household also includes an Australian Shepherd and a beloved cat, both of whom are moving to Colorado.

Board of Trustees

Meet the Board of Trustees that supports RVU in sustaining effective governance, educational integrity, and ensures the mission, vision, and core values are carried out.

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Presidential Award of Excellence

A school’s success and the future success of its graduates is not determined by the curriculum and quizzes and policies—here, we believe this responsibility lies with the faculty. The Presidential Award of Excellence was established to honor and recognize the faculty members who consistently demonstrate excellence in the scholarly activity of teaching, service, and research.

While the award is bestowed by the University President, the recipient has been chosen by his or her fellow faculty members.

Recipients of the Presidential Award of Excellence

Joseph Stasio

DO, FACOFP (2017)

Presidential Award Recipient - Joseph Stasio

Walter Buck

PhD (2018)

Presidential Award Recipient - Buck Walter

Christopher Unrein

DO, FACOI, FACP, CMD (2018)

Presidential Award Recipient - Christopher Unrein

Michael W. Martin

PhD (2018)

Presidential Award Recipient - Michael Martin

Jill Pitcher

DO, FACOFP (2019)

Presidential Award Recipient - Jill Pitcher

Ronald Blonder

DO, FACC, FACOI (2019)

Presidential Award Recipient - Ronald Blonder

Bruce Dubin

DO, JD, FCLM, FACOI (2019)

Presidential Award Recipient - Bruce Dubin

Mark Briesacher

MD (2019)

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William Cairney

PhD (2019)

Presidential Award Recipient - Bill Cairney

Thomas N. Told

DO, FACOFP dist. (2020)

Presidential Award Recipient - Thomas Told

Dayne Alonso

PA-C (2020)

Presidential Award Recipient - Dayne Alonso

Camille Bentley

DO (2021)

Presidential Award Recipient - Camille Bentley

Jennifer Montemayor

PhD (2022)

Presidential Award Recipient - Jennifer Montemayor

Nicole Michels

PhD (2023)

Presidential Award Recipient - Nicole Michels

Rachel Linger

PhD (2024)

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Jacquelyn Waller

PharmD (2024)

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Careers at RVU

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Rocky Vista University welcomes employment inquiries from qualified individuals who share and support our mission and vision. We value individuals who demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning, community service, and excellence. As one of the newest of the colleges of osteopathic medicine, RVU enjoys an entrepreneurial culture featuring state of the art facilities and innovative approaches to learning.

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Peak News & Stories

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There are many ways to learn more about RVU; from the latest news to the stories of our students, faculty, and staff – the Peak News Room has current press releases, news updates, and featured blogs.

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