The dean of Tulane University’s School of Professional Advancement, Amelia Manning, is leaving her role to become Chamberlain University’s next president, starting May 18. Manning started as dean of SoPA in September 2025. 

“I am thrilled to join Chamberlain University as its next President,” Manning said in a LinkedIn post. “I have spent my career working to remove barriers between students and the education they need to build meaningful careers … That work has never felt more urgent or more important than it does right now.” 

Before Tulane, Manning worked at Southern New Hampshire University for 20 years. 

SoPA is dedicated to bachelor’s degree completion and graduate study. It also offers certificate programs in fields like cybersecurity, advanced emergency management, education leadership and strategic communication. The school is geared mostly towards working adults continuing their education.

At SoPA, Manning worked to modernize the academic programs and strengthen support for students and streamline operations, according to Tulane News. She also explored new areas of study for the school, including energy and sustainability, logistics, medical laboratory sciences and pre-health pathways.

As of January 2026, SoPA served about 1,500 students, including around 800 undergraduates and 650 graduate students.