Triple Rutgers graduate, Lee Schneider, CAES’70, GSNB’72, GSE’88.
Lee Schneider (CAES’70, GSNB’72, GSE’88), retired from Rutgers in 2018, ending a notable 48-year career at Rutgers. At his retirement, he served in the role of assistant dean in the Office of Academic Programs at the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS).
He has helped thousands of students navigate the academic rigors of Rutgers as well as connect parents to the school as the liaison to the Cook Campus Parents’ Association. He was an integral part in the development of the former Cook College, now SEBS, and has been a mentor to students and alumni. Among his many roles, Schneider worked within Residence Life, Academic Affairs, Rutgers Parents Association and served as Dean of Students for Cook College.
Schneider began his Rutgers career in 1965 as an undergraduate and a football player for the Scarlet Knights. As a student, he received his bachelor’s degree from Rutgers College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in 1970. While playing football for the Scarlet Knights, he was co-captain of the Centennial Team in 1969 and was later inducted into the Rutgers Football Hall of Fame in 1994. Schneider earned a master’s degree from the Graduate School in 1971 and a doctoral degree in 1988 from the Graduate School of Education – all three degrees from Rutgers. Active with the CAES/Cook/SEBS and Rutgers alumni associations throughout his time in New Brunswick, Schneider was named a Loyal Son of Rutgers in 2012 by the Rutgers Alumni Association. In addition, Schneider was the Cook Baccalaureate Speaker, earned the George Hammell Cook Distinguished Alumni Award, and in 2005 received the Rutgers University Alumni Federation Meritorious Service Award.
Lee Schneider in relaxation mode since retirement from Rutgers in 2018.
Schneider witnessed the transformation of the George H. Cook campus from when he was a student at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, through the establishment of Cook College and, later SEBS. Amidst all this change, one thing he says has stayed the same, is the people. “Those who really enjoy being here and who stay and involve themselves in the campus community, really come out with something incredible,” he said.
In 2018, Schneider shared that his retirement plans included travel, golf, time with his grandchildren and getting back to his farming roots with a little gardening. SEBS/NJAES Newsroom caught up with him for a look at what we call, “Life After Retirement.”
What have you been up to since you retired from Rutgers?
Since retiring seven years ago, my days are filled with golf, puzzles, and tending to the lawn, pool, and garden. I keep busy by supporting Jackie, my wife, at her marathons and staying connected with my seven grandchildren. In addition, I continue my involvement with several Boards, including the Cook Community Alumni Association, Helyar House Advisory Board, Rutgers Football Letterwinners within the National Football Hall of Fame Bill Denny Chapter, and the Franklin Warriors Foundation.
How are you still involved with SEBS and Rutgers?
My involvement with the CCAA is especially meaningful. As a Board Member of the CCAA, I co-chair the Awards Committee with Dr. Linda Madison (CC’80, GSE’94, ’02), where we present the George H. Cook Award and the Dennis M. Fenton Award to recognize outstanding undergraduate and graduate achievements. I actively attend and participate in numerous alumni events such as the Fish Fry, Awards Ceremony, Ag Field Day and our regular meetings.
Why do you remain active with the CCAA?
I arrived at Rutgers in 1965 as a football recruit from a family of Long Island farmers, leaving only briefly for a stint with the New York Giants. After my release, Dr. Richard Merritt (AG’54, GSNB’56, ’61) recruited me as Assistant Dean to help develop Cook College, and later I was appointed Dean of Students. After five years as a student athlete at the College of Agriculture and Environmental Science; earning my Doctorate and 48 years of dedicated service to the Rutgers community, it goes without saying that I have a deep connection to Rutgers. Having held what was, in my view, the best job imaginable, I never considered my work at Cook College a “job.” When asked what I enjoyed most, I always replied that it was spending time on the Cook Campus and engaging with students, faculty, staff, parents and alumni.
What do you miss the most about your time at SEBS?
Naturally, I miss the daily interactions with my friends—students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni—and do my best to stay in touch with my Cook family. I also fondly remember my connections with fellow athletes at Rutgers.
Do you have any advice for new and returning students this year?
My advice to both new and returning students is to get involved and meet as many people as possible—students, faculty, and staff alike. Join activities and attend events, as lifelong friends are truly all around you. Above all, devote yourself to your academics and discover a passion that could shape your future career.
