Chip Paucek is the co-founder and former CEO of 2U, a leading online education platform company that partners with top educational institutions to enhance online learning. Under his leadership, the company's revenue grew from $55.9 million in 2012 to $963.1 million in 2022, and expanded its offerings to include alternative credentials and the acquisition of the MOOC platform edX.
Who is the CEO of 2U?
Christopher "Chip" Paucek, a visionary leader in the online education industry, co-founded 2U in 2008 with the mission to eliminate the "back row" in education by bringing high-quality learning experiences online. As the former CEO and now Special Advisor to 2U, Paucek played a pivotal role in the company's growth and strategic direction, including its expansion into alternative credentials and the acquisition of the MOOC platform edX. Despite facing financial challenges and legal issues during his tenure, Paucek's leadership has significantly impacted the higher education landscape, pushing top-ranked colleges to create online graduate programs and addressing the evolving needs of the workforce through reskilling and upskilling initiatives.
Work History
- Pro Athlete Community (PAC), Co-Founder & Co-CEO, August 2022 - present
- 2U, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, January 2012 - December 2023
- 2U, Co-Founder, President & COO, April 2008 - December 2011
- Smarterville, Inc. (Hooked on Phonics), CEO, January 2007 - January 2008
- Educate Products & Media, President, January 2005 - January 2007
- Educate, Inc, VP, Business Development, January 2004 - January 2005
- Mikulski for Senate, Deputy Campaign Manager, January 2003 - January 2004
- Cerebellum Corporation, Co-CEO, January 1993 - January 2003
Education History
Chip Paucek holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Communication from The George Washington University, where he studied from 1988 to 1992. He later pursued a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) at the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, completing the program between 2012 and 2017. This combination of education in both communication and business administration has undoubtedly contributed to Paucek's success in leading and growing companies within the education sector.
When did Chip Paucek join 2U?
Chip Paucek co-founded 2U in 2008 and took on the role of CEO in 2012. He played a significant role in the company's growth and strategic direction for over 15 years. In 2023, Paucek stepped down as CEO and transitioned to a Special Advisor role within the company.