National Association of College Stores Announces New CEO

National Association of College Stores Announces Resignation of Current CEO, Robert Walton;
Elects Current COO, Ed Schlichenmayer, as Successor

OBERLIN, OHIO ( July 24, 2019) – The National Association of College Stores (NACS) Board of Trustees is announcing today that Robert Walton, current Chief Executive Officer (CEO), is resigning, and has unanimously elected Ed Schlichenmayer, NACS Chief Operating Officer (COO), to be his successor. This leadership announcement is part of a thoughtful planning process involving the CEO position as well as other changes at NACS.

“It’s been an honor to serve as NACS' CEO. However, now is the right time for a leadership change, and Ed is the right person to guide NACS as it looks to the future,” said Walton. “I look forward to working with Ed and the Board during the transition period as we continue to serve and deliver value for our members.”

Schlichenmayer is expected to assume the CEO role in the next few weeks, with Walton remaining in an advisory role through the year to work on one-to-two ongoing initiatives where he has unique expertise.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to thank Bob for his leadership. As the campus store industry continues to face changes in the business landscape, Bob’s ‘outside the box’ thinking was the start of a new foundation for NACS and its members,” said NACS President Chad M. Schreier. “Ed’s election as our incoming CEO enables us to ensure a seamless transition in this important leadership position for our association, and brings the right vision and values to lead NACS into the future.”

During his time at NACS, Schlichenmayer has held various senior-level positions, guided and executed NACS through complicated strategy initiatives, and developed expertise in the functions related to supporting academic enterprises and the independent store. Prior to NACS, Schlichenmayer managed stores and other auxiliary operations in higher education, and is a former NACS trustee.

“I am humbled and privileged to be the next CEO of NACS, and I appreciate the confidence that the Board of Trustees have placed in me. This is a critical time for NACS, and I look forward to working with our Board, professional staff, members and vendors to support the growth and development of the independent campus store,” concluded Schlichenmayer.

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About The National Association of College Stores

The National Association of College Stores (NACS) is the professional trade association representing the collegiate retailing industry. NACS represents campus retailers and industry-related companies that supply course materials and other merchandise and services to campus stores. NACS provides education and other resources that help its member stores support student success, the campus experience, and the academic missions of higher education institutions. NACS is headquartered in Oberlin, Ohio. Additional information can be found online at www.nacs.org .