TESU Appoints Dr. Robert Heinrich as Dean of the Heavin School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education

Thomas Edison State University (TESU) has appointed Dr. Robert Heinrich as dean of the Heavin School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education, effective April 20.

“TESU’s commitment to access, innovation, adult learning and flexible degree pathways resonates deeply with my professional background,” said Heinrich. “I am honored to join a university that has consistently led in creating opportunities for diverse learners. I look forward to working with mentors and staff to strengthen academic programs, expand student-success pathways and advance innovative, workforce-aligned education.”

In his current role as an American Council on Education (ACE) presidential fellow, Heinrich has worked closely with President Cindy Jebb and senior academic leaders at Ramapo College of New Jersey on academic planning, student-success initiatives and the strategic integration of artificial intelligence. He has also provided accreditation guidance to Ramapo’s self-study steering committee in preparation for its upcoming Middle States Commission on Higher Education reaffirmation review. This experience has provided Heinrich with a national perspective on academic affairs, faculty governance, accreditation and student-centered leadership.

Heinrich’s career reflects extensive experience in designing, evaluating and advancing academic programs. He has contributed to the development and review of undergraduate and graduate programs, certificates and workforce-aligned credentials while leading multiple accreditation and compliance efforts. He has also supported the integration of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and digital learning tools, into curriculum and professional practice. Additionally, Heinrich has served as a Middle States visiting team peer evaluator, further broadening his institutional perspective.

At Stockton University, Heinrich currently serves as special assistant to the president for University Partnerships and Initiatives. He was also vice president for enrollment management, where he led undergraduate and graduate recruitment, marketing and admissions strategies. He oversaw student-success, retention and persistence initiatives, strengthening advising systems, early alert models and holistic support structures. His leadership included securing federal and state grant funding for an early-college program through the GEAR UP initiative and implementing modern customer relationship management systems that enhanced predictive analytics and coordinated student support, efforts that align closely with TESU’s focus on adult student success and enrollment stability. Additionally, Heinrich also held the role of chief information officer, providing strategic leadership for the administration, implementation and planning of technology resources to advance the academic, administrative, research and outreach activities of Stockton University.

Heinrich currently serves on the Advisory Board of the Atlantic Cape Institute of Technology, reflecting his longstanding commitment to career and technical education, workforce development and Pre-K–12 alignment. Earlier in his career, he served on the Little Egg Harbor Township School Board, an experience that deepened his appreciation for public board governance, community accountability and the vital stewardship role trustees play in educational institutions. Heinrich has served as an adjunct instructor at both Stockton University and Ocean County College.

“Dr. Heinrich is a mission-driven leader with a deep understanding of the evolving needs of today’s learners,” said Dr. Cynthia Baum, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at TESU. “His experience in academic program development, accreditation, enrollment strategy and student success will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen the Heavin School and expand opportunities for our students.”

TESU President Merodie A. Hancock, Ph.D., emphasized Heinrich’s alignment with the University’s strategic priorities.

“Dr. Heinrich brings a powerful combination of academic leadership, technological insight and a steadfast commitment to student success,” said Hancock. “His vision and experience will help advance TESU’s role as a national leader in serving adult learners and supporting workforce development across New Jersey and beyond.”

As dean, Heinrich will lead the Heavin School in advancing high-quality academic programs, fostering innovation in teaching and learning and strengthening pathways that support student achievement and career advancement. He holds a Bachelor of Computer Science and Information Systems, MBA and Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership, all from Stockton University.