Portrait of Dr. Roland Shapley Jr.

Dr. Roland Shapley Jr.

  • Asst Professor of Instruction at School of Health Administration, College of Health Professions

Biography

I am an educator and leader with a unique blend of academic and industry expertise, currently serving as an Assistant Professor committed to student engagement, innovative teaching, and the development of practical, real-world skills. My work is driven by a deep commitment to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to succeed in complex and evolving organizational environments. In addition to my teaching role, I serve as the Faculty Advisor for the BHA Student Healthcare Leadership Coalition (HLC), where I mentor students in leadership development, professional engagement, and applied healthcare administration.
My academic scholarship focuses on advancing healthcare delivery and policy innovation. I was the second author on a recent peer-reviewed publication with Dr. Michael Mileski examining the utilization and impact of Institutional Special Needs Plans (I-SNPs), contributing to the growing body of research aimed at improving care models for vulnerable populations The Utilization, Application, and Impact of Institutional Spe-cial Needs Plans (I-SNPs) in Nursing Facilities: A Rapid Review
ISNP.working copy_Mileski
. I have also earned a Certificate in Research Career Development, further strengthening my commitment to rigorous, applied research that bridges theory and practice.Prior to transitioning into academia, I served as Chief Executive Officer of a national medical supply company specializing in medical devices for nursing home patients. In this role, I led strategic growth initiatives, oversaw regulatory compliance, and drove innovation in product development and operations. This industry experience continues to inform my teaching, allowing me to integrate real-world decision-making, leadership challenges, and operational strategy directly into the classroom.
With a perspective that bridges academic theory and professional application, my goal is to foster an interactive, dynamic learning environment while advocating for lifelong learning and mentorship. I strive to inspire both students and colleagues through collaborative leadership and applied scholarship.
I hold a Doctor of Science (DSc) in Healthcare Leadership from The University of Alabama at Birmingham, a Master of Business Administration from Christian Brothers University, and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Louisiana State University. Additionally, I have earned a graduate certificate in Religions of the World from Harvard University and a certificate in Business Process Design for Strategic Management from the MIT Sloan School of Management, reflecting my commitment to continuous learning and a holistic approach to leadership, strategy, and cultural understanding.
My first peer-reviewed article, The Effects of the Patient-Driven Payment Model (PDPM) and COVID-19 on Nursing and Therapy Staffing Levels among Skilled Nursing Facilities, was published in the March 2025 edition of the Journal of Hospital Management and Health Policy.
Outside of my professional work, I enjoy hiking, watching movies, caring for my two pit-bull rescues, Sammy and Wilbur, and playing music. I am guided by a strong belief in resilience and personal growth, captured in the words of Max Brooks: “Adversity introduces us to ourselves.”

Research Interests

Long term care community, skilled nursing facilities, and home health.

Teaching Interests

Strategic Marketing, Strategic Management, and Human Resources in Healthcare.