Rosalynn Bliss, MSW
- Assistant Dean and Chief External Relations Officer
- Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Bio
Rosalynn Bliss, MSW, is the assistant dean and chief external relations officer at the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, where she leads the college’s external relations strategy, overseeing communications and marketing, hospital partnerships, community engagement, government relations, and industry collaboration. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and criminal justice from the University of South Alabama and a master’s degree in social work from Michigan State University.
Originally from Sault Ste. Marie in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Rosalynn is proud to be a part of a college that is deeply committed to improving health outcomes and expanding access to care in medically underserved communities across the state.
Before joining MSU, Rosalynn served the City of Grand Rapids as an elected official for 19 years - first as a City Commissioner and then as Mayor. During her tenure as Mayor, she also served as a professor in the School of Social Work and the Frederik Meijer Honors College at Grand Valley State University.
A dedicated civic leader, Rosalynn remains deeply engaged in the community. She serves on several boards, including the Downtown Development Authority, the Kent County Convention/Arena Authority, Community Rebuilders, and Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. She has received numerous local and statewide honors for her leadership and longstanding commitment to child welfare, public service, and community development.