Chad Schell

Although he didn’t realize it then, Chad was preparing for his career at LVC when he arrived at Lock Haven University as a first-generation, first-year student-athlete, balancing academics and athletics as a standout baseball pitcher. After graduating, he began a career as a mental health counselor and joined The Valley part-time as a baseball coach. Energized by the campus community, he jumped at the opportunity to help students from all backgrounds with varied interests in 2013 when the Center for Academic Success and Exploratory Majors needed an academic success coach. Chad says, “Ultimately, the calling to work directly with college students led me to LVC full-time.” Because motivating others is the primary driving force behind his occupation, interests, and goals, he is thrilled to be coaching students athletically and academically.

Chad points to the close-knit and inclusive campus community as one of his favorite aspects of LVC. He says that LVC students are unique because they are passionate about learning and helping others. He also enjoys working with student-athletes balancing top-tier academics while competing at a high level athletically.

Chad leads the Dutchmen First Program, which supports first-generation students through their initial transition to college and provides resources throughout their college journey. Chad was a first-generation college student, so he understands the challenges they face. Chad is also involved in the THRIVE Scholars Program for PELL Grant-eligible students who are BIPOC and/or first-generation and LVC’s Pathways, a summer program for first-year students to get a head start on their college years at no additional cost. He is also the advisor for the Dance Team.

In his free time, Chad likes to spend time with his wife, Jaime Kirkpatrick Schell ’00, and their two sons, Nolan and Reese. They love physical activity and traveling. They enjoy going to the beach and look forward to expanding their traveling horizons as the boys grow up.

Baseball is still central to Chad’s life. He coaches youth baseball organizations across the Midstate, is an instructor and clinician at Champ’s Training Facility, and is involved with the Donegal Youth Baseball Association.