Bill Fischer is a highly accomplished executive leader, with a distinguished career in higher education spanning almost three decades. Having recently served as the Vice President for Student Development at the University of Dayton, Fischer has consistently demonstrated a profound ability to lead, innovate, and collaborate across a diverse range of university departments, all while focusing on achieving strategic outcomes. With a unique blend of leadership, strategic vision, and expertise in higher education administration, Fischer has played a pivotal role in shaping the University of Dayton’s student development programs, which serve a student body of approximately 8000.

As Vice President, Fischer oversaw a division of more than 175 staff members, including 690 student employees and 40 graduate assistants, and managed a substantial operating budget of approximately $54 million. Under his leadership, the division had successfully implemented a range of new programs designed to meet the evolving needs of students, a demographic increasingly influenced by societal changes. Fischer’s approach to student development is grounded in a strong commitment to enhancing the student experience, focusing on strategic initiatives such as the creation of health and wellbeing programs and services and a residential curriculum that fosters student growth, engagement and academic success.

Fischer’s leadership style is both collaborative and synergistic, reflecting his ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. He has consistently worked to align the division’s strategic direction with the overall goals of the University, ensuring that the Student Development Division is integral to the University’s mission. His efforts culminated in the development of the division’s first comprehensive strategic plan, which was further refined and expanded with subsequent strategic initiatives that emphasize continuous assessment, inclusion, and educational excellence.

Beyond his work at the University of Dayton, Fischer has made significant contributions to professional associations, most notably serving as the President of the Association for Student Conduct Administration (ASCA). During his tenure, Fischer helped refine the organization’s mission and vision, introduced core values that continue to guide its work, and spearheaded the creation of ASCA’s first diversity strategic plan. His leadership within ASCA was instrumental in shaping policies and practices that resonate across the higher education community. He also served for six years on the Board of Directors for the Association for Student Affairs at Catholic Colleges and Universities (ASACCU).

In addition to his administrative achievements, Fischer has been an independent consultant since 1997, specializing in conflict resolution and mediation for higher education institutions. He has facilitated numerous programs and conducted external reviews of student conduct systems and Title IX programs, providing valuable insights that have helped institutions improve their policies and practices. Fischer has also shared his expertise in the classroom, teaching as an adjunct professor at several universities, including the University of Dayton, Northeastern University, and Suffolk University.

Fischer’s extensive legal background, having practiced law as a litigator for ten years and served as a partner at Matthews, White & Fischer, further complements his leadership in student affairs and higher education administration. His legal training has equipped him with a keen understanding of policy formation, risk management, and the legal aspects of higher education.

Throughout his career, Fischer has earned numerous accolades for his contributions to higher education, including the 2019 Lackner Award, one of the highest honors granted by the University of Dayton for significant contributions to the Catholic and Marianist character of the institution. He also earned the Distinguished Service Award from ASCA in 2015. Fischer’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to student success, institutional advancement, and the values of integrity, collaboration, and service.

With a comprehensive educational background that includes a Doctor of Law from Seton Hall University, an Institute of Higher Education Management certification from Harvard University, certifications from the Center for Executive Coaching and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Villanova University, Fischer continues to be a leading figure in the field of student affairs and higher education. His leadership, strategic foresight, and dedication to enhancing the student experience have left an indelible mark on the University of Dayton and the broader higher education community.

Character
Bill Fischer exemplifies integrity, collaboration, and service, fostering a values-driven leadership style that aligns with the mission and vision of higher education institutions.

Knowledge
Fischer has extensive experience in higher education administration, crisis management, strategic planning, and conflict resolution, supported by a strong legal background.

Strategic
He has successfully developed and executed comprehensive strategic plans that align student development initiatives with the university’s goals, while driving continuous improvement and innovation.

Communication
Fischer effectively communicates with diverse stakeholders, leading cross-functional teams and influencing organizational change through collaboration and transparency.