Andrea Merisotis Snow, Esq.
Andrea Merisotis Snow, Esq. is an accomplished education technology executive, attorney, and operations leader currently serving as Chief Legal and Government Affairs Officer at Pima Medical Institute. Based in the Greater Phoenix Area, she plays a central role in guiding legal strategy, regulatory compliance, and government relations for a large, employee-owned postsecondary institution focused on allied health education. With a strong commitment to workforce development, Snow’s leadership emphasizes expanding access to career-focused training programs that address critical healthcare workforce needs while supporting student success.
Prior to her current role, Snow spent more than a decade at Ancora Education, where she rose to Senior Vice President and In-House Counsel. In this capacity, she was instrumental in transforming the organization’s educational offerings to better align with evolving workforce demands across multiple sectors, including secondary education, B2B, B2G, and B2E markets. Known for her ability to integrate strategy, product development, and operations, she led cross-functional teams across the United States, driving innovation, managing complex change initiatives, and spearheading mergers and acquisitions that delivered measurable growth and operational efficiency.
Snow’s career is distinguished by her unique combination of legal expertise and hands-on operational leadership within postsecondary education. She has extensive experience in areas such as regulatory compliance, employment and contract law, and legislative advocacy, along with a deep understanding of online and hybrid learning delivery models. A licensed attorney in both Arizona and South Carolina, she holds a Juris Doctor from Roger Williams University School of Law and a Bachelor of Science from the University of South Carolina. Beyond her professional work, she actively contributes to the community through board service with organizations such as Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre and the Career Schools Private Education Network, reflecting her ongoing commitment to education, leadership development, and social impact.
• Licensed Attorney
• Mediator, State of Rhode Island
• Roger Williams University School of Law - JD
• Women Accelerating Career Schools (WACS)
• Women's Executive Group (WEG) - Phoenix
• Career Schools Private Education Network (CSPEN) - Board Member
• Arizona State Board for Private Post-Secondary Education - Governor Appointed
• COASTAL YOUTH BALLET THEATRE
• Waccamaw Center for Mental Health
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to doing the right things and really just grinding - working hard, being loyal, being dedicated, and being motivated. I'm not afraid to roll up my sleeves and get hard work done. Whether it's for my students or my employees, I've got to be that advocate for the right thing consistently. It's not about me, it's about them, and being able to be impactful. I believe in making sure I'm always focused on doing the right thing for the right reasons each and every day.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to stay open to change and embrace new opportunities, even when they take me into entirely new fields. I’ve seen this principle in action through Andrea’s career, and it resonates deeply with me. Her transition from teaching to law exemplifies the power of pursuing growth and engaging in work that is truly purpose-driven.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to not be afraid to get your foot in the door and start gaining experience. Equally important, always advocate for doing what’s right, even when it’s challenging—integrity and courage will set you apart.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field is the shifting legislative and regulatory landscape, which directly affects students’ access to financial aid. At the same time, there’s a huge opportunity to create innovative funding solutions—like workforce or employer-sponsored programs—that reduce student debt while preserving educational choice. Personally, the federal student loan program made it possible for me to attend law school, and I’m committed to ensuring future students have the same opportunities.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Family is incredibly important to me—I come from a large, close-knit family where we support and hold each other accountable. Integrity and ethics are equally central; as a lawyer, I understand the law, but acting ethically means staying true to my values, giving back, and advocating for those who need a voice. I strive to never forget where I came from and to use my skills to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Locations
Pima Medical Institute
Chandler, AZ 85286