Howard Brodsky Joins School of Business as Executive in Residence

The SNHU School of Business tapped into the expertise of a hall of famer as it welcomed renowned entrepreneur Howard Brodsky as an executive in residence in October 2024.

Brodsky, who co-founded Manchester, NH-based CCA Global Partners nearly 40 years ago and grew it to become the largest purchasing cooperative in the United States, was inducted into the Cooperative Hall of Fame in 2009 and was the first American to be awarded the Rochdale Award, the “Nobel Prize of Cooperative Business.” His influence is further acknowledged through awards such as the World Affairs Council Global Leadership Award and induction into the Entrepreneur Hall of Fame.

As executive in residence, Brodsky will collaborate with campus faculty to enhance curriculum, focusing on cooperative business models and entrepreneurial success. Brodsky will also serve as a guest lecturer and support various experiential learning initiatives, bringing his extensive expertise directly into the classroom and beyond.

“I’ve had the honor to serve alongside Howard during my time on the board, as provost, and now in my role as president,” said SNHU President Lisa Marsh Ryerson. “Having witnessed his valuable insights and unwavering commitment to SNHU over the years, I know the School of Business and our students will benefit greatly from his vast experience and guidance.”

In one of his first interactions with campus students, Brodsky discussed cooperative business models and “capitalism with a conscience” in a packed lecture in Mara Hall. He described the many benefits that can be derived from putting people before profits and by engaging young people who will be the future leaders and business owners of tomorrow.

“When students are coming to college, no matter what their age, they’re in a stage where they’re learning and growing,” Brodsky said. “I think most young people today are looking for places that fill not only a monetary need, but also a social need. The cooperative shared ownership business model uniquely fits both an economic model and a social model that I think satisfies students in a way that nothing else does.”

Dean of SNHU’s School of Business Diego Nocetti is happy to see Brodsky fill this role. “I am extremely excited about the opportunity to partner with Howard Brodsky,” he said. “As a world-renowned and decorated business leader, Howard exemplifies our core belief that business should act as a force for good. His joining our team as executive in residence underscores our commitment to preparing students to make a positive impact in the world. I anticipate that Howard will have a significant impact through the development of new experiential learning opportunities and courses focused on sustainable business practices and cooperative models, enriching our curriculum and empowering our students to lead in these crucial areas.”