Over the last year, Chapman has seen pivotal leadership transitions, historic philanthropic support and new innovative academic programming. As the university moves toward a bold new chapter, these milestones reflect a campus community energized by momentum and ready to shape what President Daniele Struppa called a “spectacular future.”
Here are some of the most exciting campus announcements from over the last year.
Chapman Ready for ‘spectacular Future,’ Says President Struppa In Final State of the University Address
In his final State of the University address, President Struppa expressed his appreciation for the students, faculty, staff, leadership and governing boards who supported him during his tenure. President-elect Matt Parlow delivered a moving tribute highlighting Struppa’s many successes, including:
- Launching six new schools and colleges.
- Ranking among the top 30% of national universities (U.S. News and World Report).
- Reaching an endowment valued at $860 million.
- Achieving R2 classification.
- Raising more than $404 million toward the “Inspire” campaign’s $500 million goal.
Jim Burra Leads Chapman University Board of Trustees
Jim Burra, a 25-year member of Chapman’s governing boards, was elected chair of the Board of Trustees starting in 2025. Burra succeeds Parker Kennedy, a trustee whose term as board chair concluded at the end of 2024.
Burra joined the Chapman Board of Governors in 1998 and the Board of Trustees in 2011. As a trustee, he served as chairman of the endowment investment committee for nine years, growing Chapman’s endowment from $301 million to more than $850 million. Additionally, Burra increased net assets to $1.7 billion and assisted in launching the public phase of the university’s comprehensive campaign.
Chapman Researchers Challenge Common Beliefs Behind Police and Military Dog Selection
People have long held the belief that the shape of a dog’s nose and skull makes some breeds better than others at scent-detection work. Due to their long snouts, German shepherds, Labradors and Belgian malinois have been considered optimal breeds for drug sniffing, bite work and bomb detection.
But does the shape of a dog’s skull and nose really impact its ability to perform certain scent-related tasks?
A team of researchers at Chapman University decided to investigate this theory. It turns out that Chihuahuas and pugs are just as good at scent-related work, but German shepherds and similar breeds are chosen for bomb and drug detection due to their size and personality.
Chapman Graduate Programs Continue to Rise in National Rankings
Chapman University experienced another year of strong graduate school rankings from U.S. News & World Report. These latest rankings, released on April 8, emphasize that Chapman is on a strong upward trajectory as a national university powered by innovative academic excellence and student success.
Three graduate programs saw significant increases in the rankings:
- The Physician Assistant program jumped an incredible 38 spots to No. 58 in the country.
- Physical Therapy moved up 29 spots to No. 93.
- Education climbed 19 spots to No. 138.
Law (No. 104) and Computer Science (No. 202) also moved up, while Business remained steady at No. 66 again. Chapman continues to have solid rankings for Speech-Language Pathology (No. 105) and Psychology (No. 250). New rankings were not published this year for two of the university’s graduate programs, Mathematics and Pharmacy.
