Cairn’s Student Life Welcomes New Leadership

Cairn University is pleased to announce the appointment of Adam Porcella as the new dean of students, effective after the conclusion of the spring 2018 term. Porcella comes to Cairn from Phil-Mont Christian Academy where he served as dean of student affairs.
At Phil-Mont Christian Academy, Porcella’s responsibilities included oversight of administrative functions including student development, admissions, student guidance, student financial services, family relations, advancement, and church relations.
“We are thrilled to see the value Adam’s leadership experience will bring to Student Life,” expressed Scott Cawood, Senior Vice President of Student Affairs. “His years of experience in education in multiple roles have equipped him with a wealth of resources that will benefit our students. He is committed to the holistic development of the student and driven to see all students reach a path towards graduation and success.”
Porcella has extensive experience in oversight and improvement of programs, policies, and initiatives to promote student growth and achievement. Prior to his post at Phil-Mont, Porcella served as the director of student retention of Simpson University, director of residence life at the International Teachers College in Indonesia, and as a residence hall director at Covenant College. He holds a Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary and a Master of Arts in Higher Education from Geneva College. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Education from Temple University.
“I am eager to bring my education and experience in residence life, student development, and student retention to Cairn University,” says Porcella. “Christian education has impacted me profoundly, and I know the importance of a holistic, engaging, and purposeful education. It is a privilege to partner with other dedicated Christian educators at Cairn University towards the common goal of shaping students into biblically minded, well-educated, and professionally competent men and women of character.”
In addition to our new dean of students, Cairn is pleased to welcome Russell Schneider as the new director of community life. Schneider comes to Cairn from Waynesburg University and will assume his new role at Cairn starting the end of March. “Russ is a welcome addition to Cairn. His vast experience in residence life will be put to great use in our community life which is essential in building the dynamic experience our students enjoy in events, programs, and resident living,” says Cawood. Porcella and Schneider together bring leadership, charisma, and a vision for Student Life that will enrich the department and support the university to provide a dynamic campus culture and community for our students.