Rafael Bahamonde, PhD, FACSM, FISBS
Founding Dean School of Health and Human Sciences
IU Indianapolis
Indianapolis Health Sciences
1050 Wishard Blvd.
Indianapolis, Indiana 46202-5193
Background and aspirations for ASAHP
It is a pleasure and an honor to submit my candidacy for a position on the ASAHP Board of Directors. I currently serve as the Founding Dean of the School of Health & Human Sciences at Indiana University, Indianapolis, and served as Director of the NIH-funded Post Baccalaureate Research Program in the Biomedical Sciences (IPREP). These roles have allowed me to engage deeply with ASAHP’s mission of advancing health professions education, research, and interprofessional collaboration.
Over the past decade, I have held progressively responsible academic leadership roles, including department chair, associate dean, and dean. My administrative experience has been shaped by a strong commitment to inclusive excellence and the advancement of underserved groups in the health sciences. I have led and supported numerous federally funded initiatives that align with these values, including the NIH Bridges to the Baccalaureate and Post-Baccalaureate Research Enhancement Programs.
Beyond my institutional responsibilities, I have actively contributed to broader national initiatives aimed at equity and leadership development. I was part of the leadership team for the NSF-funded Louis Stokes Midwest Center for Excellence, a regional initiative to promote the success of underrepresented students and faculty in STEM and health fields. This work reflects my dedication to building inclusive pathways and empowering diverse academic communities.
My relationship with ASAHP has been particularly meaningful. As a participant in the ASAHP Leadership Development Program, I gained invaluable insights and tools that have strengthened my leadership practice. Today, I serve as Chair of the ASAHP Leadership Development Committee, where I have had the privilege of leading the development of the organization’s first pre-conference workshop for faculty exploring administrative careers. This initiative reflects ASAHP’s commitment to supporting emerging leaders, and it is my goal to expand participation and increase the reach of this impactful program.
If elected to the Board, I will bring a strong track record of academic leadership, a passion for equity and inclusion, and a collaborative spirit to further ASAHP’s strategic priorities. I am especially committed to cultivating future leaders in health professions —providing mentorship, development opportunities, and the tools necessary for success.
In summary, my experience, values, and vision are well-aligned with ASAHP’s mission. I would be honored to contribute to the continued growth and impact of the organization as a member of the Board of Directors.
ASAHP Activities
Activity I: Leadership Development Program 2018 Cohort
Activity II: Member of ASAHP Midwest Dean Group and Consortium of Research-Intensive Schools of Health Professions
Activity III: Chair of Leadership ASAHP Leadership Committee
Activity IV: Sponsor of ASAHP Conferences
Activity V: Fellow of ASAHP
Relevant Experience
Experience I: Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine and the International Society of Biomechanics in Sports (Board Member, 2006-2011)
Experience II: Co-chair for the IUI campus student success pillar for the 2030 Strategic Plan.
Experience III: Served as a member of the United States Tennis Association's National Committee in Sport Science for 10 years.
Experience IV: Served as the campus Director of Diversity Scholars Research Program for the IUPUI campus.
Experience V: Served on the Board of Directors of the American Kinesiology Association and served as chair of the Diversity Committee.