Presidential Inauguration | Dr. Patrick J. Schulte

Originally from central Minnesota, Dr. Schulte is a practicing Catholic with almost 20 years of extensive and diverse experience in executive-level higher education leadership, comprehensive financial management, and senior-level administration within educational institutions.

Dr. Schulte is an experienced and tested leadership executive with strong administrative prowess, comprehensive strategic higher education management, and a depth of financial acumen. Dr. Schulte has demonstrated the ability to provide effective, innovative, and inspiring leadership everywhere he has worked with an ability to create and enforce policies, and design and implement short- and long-range strategic plans. He has an extensive understanding of institutional operations, including contracts, budgets, cash management, human resource practices, and comprehensive risk management. Dr. Schulte’s innovative approach to leadership with an entrepreneurial spirit has helped him to be an effective servant leader.

He joined Briar Cliff June of 2021 as Vice President of Finance. In March of 2022 he was promoted to Executive Vice President and in July 2022 was selected to serve as the Interim President for the University. During his tenure with Briar Cliff University, Schulte has strengthened the university’s finances, enhanced the University’s leadership team based on the strategic plan and Board approved initiatives, as well as projected financial growth opportunities, and made investments in university-wide staff and operations. Prior to joining Briar Cliff, Dr. Schulte was the Executive Director of Finance & Operations for

Northeast Metro Intermediate School District 916, was a Vice President/Chief Financial Officer in the Minnesota State System, and a Vice President for Finance & Treasurer at The Sage Colleges, as well as has served as an Adjunct Faculty in Business and MBA courses for nine years.

Dr. Schulte received his Bachelor of Arts, Magna Cum Laude, Economics and Master of Business Administration from St. Cloud State University and Doctor of Business Administration from Saint Mary’s University. A lifelong learner, Dr. Schulte has worked in education for nearly two decades. In addition to his academic accolades, Dr. Schulte has an established history of serving on community and educational boards and college-level classroom instruction.

He is a proud father of four who enjoys family activities, cheering on the Chargers, and preparing/ participating in various races.