Pace University: Texas A&M Law Dean Named 9th President

• Robert "Bobby" Ahdieh, the current dean of Texas A&M University School of Law, has been appointed as the ninth president of Pace University.
• He is scheduled to assume his new leadership role at the New York-based institution on January 1, 2027.
• During his eight-year tenure at Texas A&M Law, the school significantly improved its national ranking, enrollment figures, postgraduate employment rates, and financial stability.
• Ahdieh will succeed Marvin Krislov, who announced his departure earlier this year after serving as president for nearly a decade.

His proven ability to drive comprehensive improvements, from academic standing to financial health and student outcomes, aligns with the strategic goals for the New York-based university.

Pace University, a New York-based institution, has officially named Robert "Bobby" Ahdieh, currently the dean of Texas A&M University School of Law, as its ninth president. This significant leadership change is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, marking a new chapter for the university. The announcement was made this week, confirming the appointment of a leader with a distinguished background in academic administration.

Ahdieh will take over from Marvin Krislov, who previously announced his intention to step down from the presidency earlier this year. Krislov has served in the top leadership role at Pace University for nearly a decade, overseeing the institution through a substantial period. The transition ensures a continuity of leadership while bringing in new vision and experience.

Ahdieh's appointment follows an impressive eight-year tenure as dean of Texas A&M University School of Law, where he spearheaded remarkable advancements across various key metrics. His leadership was instrumental in elevating the school's standing and operational efficiency, making him a compelling choice for the presidency of Pace University.

Under his guidance, Texas A&M University School of Law experienced a dramatic ascent in national rankings, moving from the 83rd position to an impressive 22nd. Student enrollment also saw substantial expansion, growing more than fourfold from 458 to over 2,000 students. Furthermore, the school achieved a 100% postgraduate employment rate, alongside a significant improvement in bar passage rates, which climbed from 73% to nearly 100%.

Beyond academic and student success, Ahdieh's strategic initiatives also yielded substantial financial improvements for the institution. Fundraising efforts quadrupled during his deanship, and the school successfully transitioned from experiencing annual deficits to operating in a revenue-positive position. These comprehensive achievements underscore his capacity for transformational leadership.

Robert S. Sands, the chair of Pace University's Board of Trustees, lauded Ahdieh's capabilities, describing him as a "bold institution-builder." Sands highlighted Ahdieh's consistent demonstration of a rare ability to enhance academic quality, broaden access for students, and stimulate significant growth within an institution.

The selection of Ahdieh signals Pace University's commitment to continuing its trajectory of academic excellence and expanding its impact. His proven ability to drive comprehensive improvements, from academic standing to financial health and student outcomes, aligns with the strategic goals for the New York-based university. His leadership is expected to foster further innovation and development across the institution.

Source: Information derived from university statements.