PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Brown’s School of Professional Studies has named Andrew Finn director of executive education, reinforcing its commitment to innovative leadership development and preparing future leaders. Finn will lead the strategic expansion of the program portfolio — encompassing both custom and open enrollment offerings — to advance SPS and support Brown’s broader educational mission.
Before joining Brown, Finn led executive education programs at Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Harvard Law School, drove strategic educational initiatives for associations at McKenna Management and the Massachusetts Medical Society. At Harvard School of Dental Medicine, he oversaw the strategic direction and operations of all external education programs, including continuing and executive education. He partnered with faculty to design and deliver offerings that met the evolving needs of clinical, research and education communities. At Harvard Law School, he led a team responsible for planning and delivering more than 20 executive education programs a year. Finn is recognized for shaping programs that bridge academia, professional practice and organizational growth.
A learner-centered approach
Finn’s career has been shaped by a mission-driven outlook, rooted in his work in the nonprofit sector. In executive education, that mission translates into a clear focus on the learner.
“My work has always been mission-driven,” Finn said. “In executive education, I’m guided by a learner-centered model — what learners need to succeed in their professional careers, how they prefer to learn and what will create the most meaningful experience for them.”
With this approach, Finn is committed to ensuring Brown’s programs deliver outcomes that build critical skills and empower participants to create lasting personal and professional change.
Building collaboration and growth
Collaboration, Finn said, begins with a shared sense of purpose. He emphasizes aligning teams around Brown’s mission and bringing together faculty, staff and external partners to design programs that serve both individuals and organizations.