Edward M. Shapiro

The SNHU community mourns the loss of Ed Shapiro, a visionary leader who passed away peacefully on January 7, 2025, at the age of 91. As SNHU’s third president, Shapiro led the university from 1972 to 1987 and laid the foundation for the growth and transformation of what was then New Hampshire College (NHC). During his tenure, Shapiro was instrumental in achieving accreditation candidacy, forging the university’s military partnerships, and relocating the college to its present-day location. He oversaw the construction of the first campus residence halls, academic buildings, and offices. As an advocate for diversity, Shapiro built one of the first handicap-accessible campuses in the U.S., recruited students of color, and developed the international programs by recruiting students from around the globe. Continuing the legacy of his parents, who founded the school in 1932, Shapiro dedicated his life to SNHU, serving in various roles before becoming president.