Tom Arnold

Tom Arnold

Chief Financial and Operating Officer

Western Reserve Academy

Hudson, OH

Thomas Arnold is chief financial officer and operating officer at Western Reserve Academy, which he joined in 2014. He previously worked at Robert Morris University and Chatham University and as vice president for finance and administration at Shady Side Academy. Arnold leads all areas of finance, facilities and auxiliary operations as well as ensures compliance in all human resources, risk management and legal matters. The recipient of Crain's CFO of the year award, Arnold serves on the board of directors for NBOA and as program coordinator for the Association of Business Officers of Preparatory Schools (ABOPS). He holds an MBA. 

Online Courses

Past Webinars

  • Enrollment Forecasting as a Strategic Financial Tool This item is protected

    May 8, 2026
    This webinar presents a strategic approach to enrollment forecasting that blends the enrollment team’s relational insights with financial analysis and data modeling. Learn how to strengthen projections using internal data alongside external signals.

  • There's More Room for Change Than You Think This item is protected

    April 24, 2026
    To stay competitive in today’s educational landscape, independent schools should modernize spaces by aligning with evolving pedagogical trends and technology advancements. Learn how existing spaces can be transformed to better serve a campus community.

  • Effortless Efficiency: Payroll to Performance This item is protected

    April 13, 2026
    Efficiency is paramount through the entire Human Resources function. In this webinar, HR leaders and business officers will explore how to streamline workforce management from payroll processing to performance evaluation.

  • Mission (and Margin) Possible: Leveraging Campus Assets This item is protected

    March 30, 2026
    From summer programs and rentals to strategic partnerships, schools can unlock new income streams. This webinar explores practical strategies to maximize underutilized assets, assess operational readiness, and design sustainable initiatives.

  • Blending Respect and Efficiency in the Business Office This item is protected

    February 20, 2026
    Join members of NBOA’s volunteer Human Resources Council for a practical discussion on strategies to safeguard your working hours without compromising collegial relationships —all while saving time.

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Benchmark Against National KPIs with the Latest Financial State of the Industry Report

A research report analyzing trends across 18 key financial and operational indicators over five years. Use this report to benchmark performance, stress-test assumptions and make informed decisions, as external forces continue to challenge long-term financial sustainability.

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