In the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education and innovation, recognition from leading industry publications can significantly enhance a university’s reputation and influence. The appointment of Dr. Chadwin Sandifer, Chief Innovation Officer for FDU Health and Executive Associate Dean of the College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences at Fairleigh Dickinson University, to Fast Company’s Impact Council exemplifies this trend. This milestone underscores FDU’s commitment to pioneering healthcare education, fostering innovation, and shaping leaders who influence social impact and business transformation.
The Fast Company Impact Council is an exclusive assembly of trailblazers across various sectors—business, technology, social impact, and education. Its members are selected for their groundbreaking ideas, leadership, and capacity to drive systemic change. Participation involves high-profile discussions, roundtables, and content sharing focused on some of the most pressing issues of our era, such as artificial intelligence, social responsibility, and educational innovation.
For universities like FDU, this platform offers visibility and influence, positioning the institution as a leader committed to societal advancement. Chadwin Sandifer’s role amplifies FDU’s vision of integrating cutting-edge health sciences education with technological and social innovation.
Dr. Sandifer’s contributions go beyond his appointment; they reflect FDU’s broader strategic initiatives in health sciences and educational innovation. Since helping establish New Jersey’s first private pharmacy school in over a century, he has demonstrated a pioneering spirit that aligns closely with the values of the Impact Council.
His work involves developing multidisciplinary programs—including physician assistant studies, occupational therapy, public health, physical therapy, and social work—equipped with immersive, tech-enabled environments. These learning spaces utilize simulation labs and telehealth platforms that prepare students for real-world healthcare challenges, fostering resilience and adaptability.
One of Dr. Sandifer’s key contributions is the integration of innovation, equity, and inclusive design into educational spaces. His approach ensures that healthcare training is accessible and relevant, promoting diversity and resilience among future healthcare professionals. This strategy is vital as the healthcare sector faces rapid technological advancements and societal shifts.
The development of over 75,000 square feet of learning environments demonstrates FDU’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities that support experiential learning and innovation. These spaces prepare students to meet the evolving demands of healthcare delivery and contribute to societal well-being.
Joining the Impact Council enhances FDU’s global profile by associating its faculty and leadership with some of the most creative and mission-driven minds in business and social impact. As Brendan Vaughan, Editor-in-Chief of Fast Company, states, the Impact Council members “are some of the more creative, mission-driven people in business, with some of the most original ideas about solving big problems and building the future.”
This association elevates FDU’s influence in educational innovation and social impact initiatives, attracting prospective students, research partnerships, and funding opportunities aligned with these values. It also reinforces its reputation as a university committed to impactful research and interdisciplinary collaboration.
With Dr. Sandifer’s involvement in the Impact Council, FDU solidifies its position as a nurturing ground for leaders who can influence both the healthcare sector and broader societal issues. The university’s integrated approach to education—blending technology, innovation, and social responsibility—prepares students to navigate and shape complex future markets.
Furthermore, the annual Impact Council meetings, like the recent gathering in New York City focusing on “The intersection of AI and Social Impact,” foster valuable exchanges of ideas that influence policy and practice. This ensures FDU students and faculty are at the forefront of emerging trends, fostering a culture of continuous innovation.
Dr. Chadwin Sandifer’s appointment to Fast Company’s Impact Council exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between innovative leadership and institutional prestige. It highlights FDU’s strategic focus on health sciences, technological integration, and social impact. For prospective students, educators, and partners, this recognition signals a university that actively participates in shaping a sustainable and equitable future.
Interested in learning how FDU continues to lead in health sciences and innovative education? Explore FDU’s College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences or FDU Health programs. Take the next step in your educational journey today and be part of an institution dedicated to transformational impact.