He served as principal of Oberlin Academy and as president of Berea College.

When Oberlin College opened its doors in 1834, Fairchild and his brother, James, entered as freshmen.

Berea was a revolutionary college that educated both black and white men and women.

During Fairchild's tenure as president, the physical plant and student body were expanded.

Other children included: This biography of an American academic administrator born in 1810–1819 is a stub.