Nuno Fernandes is the fifth President of American Public University System (APUS) and exemplifies the qualities that merit recognition as “University Leader of the Year.” Since being appointed in September 2022, he has executed on strategic innovation, growth and undertaken new approaches, including increased student enrollment, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to affordability and accessibility in higher education.
Under President Fernandes's leadership, APUS has strengthened our reputation as a market leader in online education by prioritizing student services, including expanded mental health support, personalized learning experiences through innovative learning models, partnerships, and technology-driven learning. These advancements have solidified APUS's leading position by providing accessible education to nontraditional learners, including working adults, first-generation, military veterans, and military-affiliated students, plus their extended families. APUS is now the third-largest university in the country for exclusively online schools and the 12th largest in the country in total enrollment.
Nuno Fernandes is redefining the future of higher education, blending innovation, purpose, and execution to create a model for success in online learning and beyond. His work is setting a new standard for global digital education, mental health advocacy, and value creation, demonstrating that APUS is making meaningful differences in the lives of our students. With a legacy of bold decisions and transformative initiatives, Nuno Fernandes exemplifies the spirit of the “University Leader of the Year” award—a leader who not only achieves extraordinary success but also ensures that faculty, students, alumni, and the community see those benefits.
