Fairleigh Dickinson University President J. Michael Adams passed away Wednesday after a yearlong battle with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
A resident of the Morris Township, Michael Adams served as President of FDU for 13 years before announcing his early retirement this spring due to health complications. More than serving as President, Adams was a leader who transformed the University.
During his tenure, the University established a new mission and raised enrollment numbers; established a campus in British Columbia; and dedicated $135 million to new facilities and campus improvements. Adam led the creation of a nationally recognized distance-learning program; established an online learning program – Global Virtual Faculty; launched the United Nations Pathways program; helped the institution gain nongovernmental organization (NGO) status; and helped FDU become the first university in the world to earn “Special Consultative Status” with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ESOSOC) among many other accomplishments.
It was with a heavy heart that Adams announced his retirement earlier this year. He shared with the community that “I’ve always known that I was only the caretaker for a time and that I would eventually pass the torch. I’m so proud of all that we have accomplished together, and I’m so proud of the institution that we are today. I anchored my heart and soul to FDU. Although I’m sorry to have to step down, I’m incredibly gratified to have played a small role in this institution’s extraordinary history.”
Board of Trustees Chairman, Patrick J. Zenner, upon learning of Adams’ passing wrote to the University community, “The presidency of Michael Adams will perhaps best be remembered for his ability to make it personal. He responded to every note, returned every call and always reached out to help colleagues and friends in need. He was always there for us. He once said, ‘You make a legacy by giving others opportunities.’ Through the opportunities he created for students and colleagues alike, Dr. Adams’ legacy will last for generations to come.”
A part of his legacy will live on in his wife, Susan, and his many family members, friends, and colleagues who have been impacted by his wisdom and spirit.
Friends have begun collecting funds in his name for a tribute at Wroxton College in the United Kingdom, and Fairleigh Dickinson University.
Funeral services will be private, but a public visitation is being planned.
University officials continue their search for a new President, and as Adams’ concluded, “I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have served as Fairleigh Dickinson’s sixth president. It was a dream come true. I remember standing on the stage during my inauguration with the image of the globe behind me and telling you that we can change the things we can touch. We have done exactly that. FDU has reached out to the world and changed who we are and the way the world sees us. Most importantly, we have changed the lives of our students. Thank you so much for making that possible.”
