Academic Spotlight: Dr. Enrique Barreiro, Senior Associate Dean of Business

Dr. Enrique N. Barreiro, senior associate dean of business programs at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), has a passion for empowering learners through mentorship. Barreiro earned his MBA with concentrations in International Business, Healthcare Management and Project Management from American InterContinental University and later went on to earn his PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in Management and Organizations from Trident University International.

Recently, he shared his journey from military service to academia, as well as his commitment to online learners.

Can you tell us about your professional background?

Sure! I have over 22 years of experience as a strategic leader in the military, civilian and higher education spaces. I’ve held roles in academic and strategic leadership across multiple colleges and universities. I also worked within the Airman Leadership School and Right Start military programs during my time in the military. I’m also proud to be a decorated military veteran and continue to stay active in education and leadership development.

What first drew you to higher education?

My passion for leadership and mentorship is what first brought me to higher education. That passion “seed” was planted many years ago in my heart by a great faculty member I had in one of my courses. During my military service, I was heavily involved in training and developing future leaders, and I found real purpose in guiding others toward their goals. That desire to help people grow naturally extended into the academic world, where I could combine my practical experience with teaching and mentoring.

What aspects of your own education have been influential in shaping your career in academia?

My journey through higher education taught me the value of adaptability and lifelong learning. Having balanced academics with a very busy professional life, I learned firsthand how transformational education can be, especially when delivered with empathy and relevance. That understanding shapes how I support students today, always keeping accessibility, support and encouragement at the forefront.

What attracted you to this field of study? What keeps you excited about it?

I’ve always been fascinated by how organizations operate, how people lead and how strategy turns ideas into action. Business is an evolving, real-world laboratory, and no two days are the same. What keeps me excited is the ability to share that dynamic energy with students and to help them apply those concepts in meaningful ways, whether in conferences, communities or entrepreneurial ventures.

How have you found ways to effectively connect with students?

I connect by meeting students where they are, listening with empathy and sharing real-world applications of what they’re learning. Whether it’s through engaging discussions, timely feedback or mentoring outside of class, if possible, I try to create a supportive and welcoming learning space where students feel seen, challenged and inspired.

What brings you the greatest joy in your work at SNHU?

The greatest joy is seeing our students grow into confident professionals and leaders. Whether it's their first class or their final capstone, watching their transformation, knowing I had a small part in that journey, is deeply fulfilling. It’s the heart of why I do what I do.

What do you feel is unique about the faculty and students you work with?

There’s an incredible sense of purpose and passion at SNHU. Our faculty brings diverse, real-world experience to the table and our students are equally diverse, bringing their own unique stories, challenges and motivations. That mix creates a learning environment that’s not only rich and engaging but also deeply human.

What does SNHU’s mission to transform the lives of learners mean to you?

For me, it’s about opening doors that may have once felt closed. It means giving people the chance to pursue an education that fits their real lives, their jobs, families and goals and showing them that success isn’t limited by circumstance. At SNHU, we don’t just teach, we support, adapt and walk alongside our students as they build something better for themselves. That kind of transformation goes far beyond the classroom. It changes futures.

Outside of work, what’s something you’re passionate about or really enjoy doing?

When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me on a soccer field! I currently serve as the captain of the U.S. Senior Men’s Soccer Team, which competed in the 2025 World Cup in Thailand. I also coach the Armed Forces Soccer Over-30 Club Team. Beyond that, I love spending time with my identical twin sons, Atlas Fox and Axel Frost. They are the center of my world. And when time allows, I enjoy movies, exploring theoretical physics, watching horror movies and serving my community through church leadership.

Alexa Gustavsen ’21 is a content facilitator and writer at Southern New Hampshire University. Based in New Hampshire, she completed her bachelor's in creative writing and English on campus at NH. Currently, she is pursuing her master's in marketing online at the university. Connect with her on LinkedIn.