Media Contact: Susan Cipollaro, scipollaro@fairfield.edu, 203-254-4000 x2726

Schnieders assumes his new role with a proven track record of accomplishments having served as Fairfield University’s vice president of online strategy and innovation, leading the development and expansion of the University’s online and hybrid academic program offerings. He has also served in a pivotal role in the launch of new programs in Austin, Texas, and Bridgeport, Conn.

Schnieders will oversee institution-wide special initiatives and projects aimed at driving strategic change, fostering innovation, and enhancing outcomes, and he will cultivate partnerships with private and public entities to expand the University's impact. He will continue his current oversight of Fairfield’s graduate online portfolio.

"Rob Schnieders visionary leadership has already made significant contributions to Fairfield University’s growth and innovation,” said President Mark R. Nemec, PhD. “With Rob at the helm of strategic initiatives, I am confident that his dedication to our mission and his commitment to academic excellence will undoubtedly continue to propel Fairfield forward."

Schnieders' tenure at Fairfield University builds upon his extensive experience in higher education leadership. Prior to his current role at Fairfield, Schnieders served as the strategist for academic support and university guidance at Amerigo Education, where he played a key role in supporting high school students from diverse backgrounds. Prior to his role at Amerigo, Schnieders held senior leadership positions at the University of Chicago Graham School and the Urban Education Institute, where he led graduate and professional degree programs and contributed to the success of a large Pre-K to Grade 12 school network.

His extensive experience also includes serving as the chief learning Officer at Deltak/Wiley and co-founding AHA! interactive, a pioneering company focused on online, problem-based learning environments for middle school students.

Schnieders holds a bachelor of science degree in radio, television, and film, as well as a master's in learning sciences from Northwestern University. His blend of academic expertise, strategic vision, and commitment to educational innovation will continue to serve Fairfield as an integral member of the University's leadership team.

Posted On: June 26, 2024

Volume: 55 Number: 127

Fairfield University is a modern, Jesuit Catholic University, rooted in one of the world’s oldest intellectual and spiritual traditions. More than 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students from 36 states, 47 foreign countries, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico are enrolled in the University’s five schools.  In the spirit of rigorous and sympathetic inquiry into all dimensions of human experience, Fairfield welcomes students from diverse backgrounds to share ideas and engage in open conversations. The University is located in the heart of a region where the future takes shape, on a stunning campus on the Connecticut coast just an hour from New York City.