Patrick’s career in higher education has spanned managerial work in student affairs, academic affairs, and as a professor in college student affairs.

At least two themes have run through Patrick's professional accomplishments as an executive leader, coach, trainer, and graduate professor - transcending dichotomies and rejecting conventional wisdom. He has transcended the dichotomy of academic affairs and student affairs, having served as both a high-level academic administrator (Associate Provost and Graduate Program Director) and a high-level student affairs administrator (VPSA at two different institutions). In fact, at Springfield College he was both the VPSA and the SAA Graduate Program Director. In each of his roles, he transcended the dichotomies of faculty/administrator and teaching/practice. He is one of the very few people who earned tenure as a professor at a research university, then left faculty to return to administration and eventually become a VPSA.

As a leader in and out of the classroom, he has forged his own path often defying conventional wisdom. For example, during the pandemic, he determined that his institution would bring back ALL their students in the fall of 2020 (one of only three institutions in New England to do this) and co-led the effort to safely and successfully accomplish this feat, saving his institution several million dollars. Additionally, the curriculum he developed for the master's program at Springfield College meets the standards of the profession, yet is unlike any other in the United States. Innovations that he created or inspired in many of his positions are still in place, including some after many years.

It is these perspectives that are infused into his philosophy and practice of training and coaching. Evidence of his success and impact are apparent throughout his career. He is the author of five books (including Rethinking Student Affairs Practice and Leadership and Management Issues for the New Century), and scores of refereed articles and chapters. Many of his students and staff have gone onto higher degrees and to executive positions, including college president. His awards are numerous, including the Robert H. Shaffer Distinguished Alumni Award (presented to a graduate of the Indiana University Higher Education doctoral program), Pillar of the Profession, Excellence in Institutional Change, Outstanding Senior Level Professional, Outstanding Contribution to Student Affairs through Teaching (twice, from two different organizations), Outstanding Contribution to Higher Education, Cultural Diversity Award, Pillar of Mentorship, and Outstanding Contribution to the Profession. 

Patrick earned his doctorate in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Indiana University and his master's degree in Counseling Psychology and Student Development from University at Albany. He has varied outside interests including adventure photography, mountain biking, Ultimate frisbee, meditation, hiking, and backpacking. His faithful companion is Bayley, a two-year old American dingo.

Patrick is an innovative, collaborative leader committed to both student AND staff success, he has been my cheerleader and provided invaluable guidance.

Marylee Demeter, Senior Assessment Developer

Our vision

We see a world of educators and leaders transforming themselves, their organizations, and the lives of college students.

our theory of change

Our practice is grounded in the belief that greatness exists in all leaders and educators but is often blocked by faulty assumptions, unfounded beliefs, filters, fear, and ignorance. Our job is to both encourage learning and development in leaders and educators, but to also help them remove and unlearn the obstacles that exist to their success.

Our Guiding Principles

1. Empathy and compassion: We seek to understand the client's perspective and approach to their work with compassion and empathy.

2. Confidentiality and trust: We maintain strict confidentiality and establish a foundation of trust with the client.

3. Evidence-based practices: We use evidence-based practices and techniques that are backed by research that have a proven track record of success.

4. Customization and flexibility: We are flexible and adaptable, tailoring our approach to the unique needs and goals of each client.

5. Growth and development: We focus on supporting the client's growth, development, and transformation, both professionally and personally.

6. Active listening: We actively listen, paying close attention to the client's words and non-verbal cues.

7. Cultural competence: We continually strive to enhance our cultural competence in order to be able to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and organizations.

8. Continuous improvement: We are committed to continuous learning and improvement as coaches, staying up-to-date with the latest research and developments in the field.

9. Goal-oriented approach: We work with each client to set clear and achievable goals, and track progress towards these goals over time.

10. Collaborative partnership: We view our relationship with the client as a collaborative partnership, working together to achieve the client's goals and aspirations.