Remembering Ed Shapiro

Ann, Ed and Gertrude Shapiro

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ed Shapiro, a visionary leader whose lifelong commitment to education and Southern New Hampshire University laid the foundation for SNHU’s transformation into the university it is today. During his 16 years as SNHU’s third president, Ed served as a catalyst in the development of what was then New Hampshire College (NHC), transitioning from a vocational school to one more academically focused. Ed also forged SNHU’s military partnerships, inspired by his own military service and witnessing the challenges NHC faced during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.   

Ed was instrumental in achieving accreditation candidacy for NHC and relocating the college to its present-day location. There, he oversaw the construction of the first dorm and townhouse buildings, and initiated development of vital buildings such as the library, faculty offices, classrooms, computer and academic buildings.   

Ed was born in 1933, just one year after his parents founded the New Hampshire Accounting and Secretarial School, known today as Southern New Hampshire University. His father, Harry Alfred Benjamin “H.A.B.” Shapiro, served as founding-president from 1932 until his death in 1952, when Ed’s mother, Gertrude Shapiro, stepped in to lead as president until 1971. Ed carried his parents’ legacy forward with dedication, beginning in 1957 as the guidance director and athletics coordinator, and by 1960 he was the administrative dean. He also served as vice president, dean of faculty, and was an instructor of typing and business machines. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Shapiro family, who have been such an integral part of SNHU’s story and legacy.

Read more about Ed Shapiro's life in his obituary. A memorial service will be held in the SNHU Banquet Hall on Sunday, Jan. 19 at 11 am ET. The community is welcome to attend in person or via livestream.