Fite Joins MCS as Assistant Dean of Administrative Operations
Heidi Opdyke
- Associate Dean of Marketing and Communications, MCS
- Email opdyke@andrew.cmu.edu
- Phone 412-268-9982
Abby Fite, the new assistant dean for administrative operations for the Mellon College of Science, was drawn to Carnegie Mellon’s commitment to its people.
“CMU's innovation culture really stood out to me,” Fite said. “I've always enjoyed working for institutions that are committed to continuous growth and improvement, and CMU and MCS embody this philosophy.”
Fite brings nearly 15 years of experience in higher education. In her new role, she oversees the college’s daily operational and administrative functions, including human resources, building operations, organizational effectiveness and compliance.
“Abby combines deep empathy with a practical approach to problem-solving,” said Barbara Shinn-Cunningham, Glen de Vries Dean of MCS. “She is exactly what the college needs to help faculty, staff and students do their best work.”
Throughout her career, her work has centered on creating environments where students, faculty and staff can thrive.
“Administrative operations are the mechanics of every university function,” Fite said. “I see my role as making sure that these mechanics facilitate outstanding science education, innovation and discovery and a supportive student, staff and faculty experience.”
Most recently, Fite served as the director of inclusive excellence at Syracuse University, where she led student success and organizational effectiveness initiatives. She previously held administrative and operational leadership roles at Bucknell University and the University of Pittsburgh, following earlier work in student engagement at Syracuse University.
“People have always been at the center of my work. I'm continuously inspired by the brilliance of my staff and faculty colleagues and the students we serve,” Fite said. “The most rewarding part of my career has been building university environments that allow students, staff and faculty to reach their full potential, and I hope to continue this work at MCS.”
Fite holds a Doctor of Education in educational foundations, organizations and policy from the University of Pittsburgh, a master’s degree in cultural foundations of education from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Vassar College.
