Long Island University Appoints Michael Schade as Vice President and General Counsel to Enhance Research Mission

Long Island University Appoints Michael Schade

Long Island University (LIU) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Michael A. Schade, J.D. as its new Vice President and General Counsel, an integral role that promises to bolster the institution's mission in higher education. With a commendable track record in legal strategy and academic leadership, Schade joins LIU following his tenure at the University of Oklahoma, a distinguished Carnegie R1 research institution.

In his previous position, Schade served as the Executive Director for Research Legal Strategy and Assistant General Counsel at the University of Oklahoma, bringing with him nearly two decades of extensive legal expertise. His professional background covers key areas such as institutional governance, research compliance, and intellectual property rights—crucial components that play a significant role in the landscape of higher education.

LIU President Kimberly R. Cline expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Michael brings an exceptional combination of legal expertise, executive leadership, and experience supporting a major research university. His counsel will help us strengthen the University, develop strategic partnerships, and advance our academic and research priorities."

Schade's impressive resume includes advising senior leadership at the University of Oklahoma on intricate institutional legal issues and research strategy across a tri-campus system. Over the course of five years, he successfully led negotiations on research agreements surpassing $1 billion, showcasing his capability in managing complex legal frameworks.

Eric Krasnoff, Chairman of the LIU Board of Trustees, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Schade's understanding of both university governance responsibilities and growth opportunities faced by research institutions. He noted, "His experience working with university leaders, governing boards, and industry partners will be a valuable asset to LIU."

Schade steps into his new role at a pivotal time for Long Island University, which is actively investing in scientific exploration and technological advancements. Recent strategic initiatives include forming a partnership with Dassault Systèmes and establishing the Artificial Intelligence and Academic Innovation (AI²) Center. Additionally, plans are underway for a new College of Science building, reinforcing LIU's commitment to fostering research and innovation.

“Expanding a research enterprise requires expertise in the agreements and partnerships that bring discoveries into practical use,” said Mohammed Cherkaoui, Ph.D., Senior Vice President for Research and Artificial Intelligence at LIU. Schade's seasoned history in sponsored research and technology commercialization is expected to bridge the gap between faculty innovation and practical application in collaboration with industry partners.

As a registered patent attorney and Certified Licensing Professional, Schade boasts a wealth of experience in both academia and private practice. Holding a Juris Doctor from the University of Oklahoma College of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, magna cum laude, from the same institution, he has also served as an adjunct professor at both the College of Law and Price College of Business.

In his own words, Schade expressed gratitude for his new role, saying, "I am honored to join Long Island University and grateful to President Cline and Chairman Krasnoff for their confidence. LIU's commitment to academic excellence and its ambitious research agenda make this an exciting time to join the University. I look forward to working with its leadership, faculty, and partners as LIU enters its next century."

Established in 1926, Long Island University is a nationally recognized institution serving over 16,000 students across its Long Island and Brooklyn campuses. It stands proud among the top 7 percent of universities nationally for research activity according to the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. LIU offers more than 150 academic programs and is dedicated to advancing discovery through research, industry partnerships, and investments in innovative technologies. Learn more at www.liu.edu.