NBOA President and CEO
As 2025 draws to a close — deep breath! — it’s natural to pause and reflect on the past year: What have we learned, and how can those lessons prepare us for the year ahead? Twice a month, I’ve cherished the opportunity to share what’s top of mind in business leadership, spotlight thought-provoking business articles that challenge perspectives, and highlight how NBOA continues to support business, finance and operations professionals at independent schools. In short, I value this direct connection with you, our members, and those who may one day join our community.
Looking back on this year’s writings, five key themes stand out. These aren’t isolated ideas, but rather represent interconnected priorities that shape how we lead, collaborate and innovate today.
1. Leader Wellbeing Thrives on Strong Partnerships.
Leadership resilience isn’t a luxury. It’s essential. “Lemonade Lessons: The Sweet Side of Sour” (March 18) introduced “lemonading,” a mindset blending optimism with realism. This approach helps leaders acknowledge challenges while celebrating progress, and foster hope without veering into toxic positivity. Later, "The School Year’s Final Weeks: A Shared Endeavor” (June 3) underscored the collaborative spirit required during the year-end marathon. From closing the books to onboarding staff, these weeks demand trust and coordination, and the piece is a reminder that wellbeing thrives on strong partnerships.
2. Data-Informed Decisions Are Within Reach.
Data is no longer optional. It’s the backbone of informed leadership. “ Fueling Financial Strategy with Data” (November 4) urged independent school leaders to participate in DASL data collection so they could leverage NBOA’s BIIS data analysis platform for benchmarking and strategic planning come the new year. The financial analysis tools in BIIS enable leaders to monitor key performance indicators, identify trends and make evidence-based decisions. In an era of rising costs and shifting enrollment, data empowers schools to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities with clarity and confidence.
Data is no longer optional. It’s the backbone of informed leadership.
3. A New Service Meets Business Office Complexity Where It Is.
The launch of NBOA Advisory Services this past April was more than a new offering from NBOA. It was a strategic response to the growing complexity of school business leadership. In “ Your Mission. Our Experts.” (April 22), I emphasized that this initiative does not shift but rather extends NBOA’s mission. Today’s CFO/CFOO role goes far beyond financial oversight: it encompasses HR, facilities, risk management and governance. NBOA Advisory Services delivers tailored guidance to help leaders navigate these multifaceted responsibilities, ensuring schools remain agile and mission-driven.
4. An Easier Way to Tackle Enterprise Risk Management.
Risk management can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to. In “ Summer Could Be the Time to Tackle ERM” (June 17), we distilled insights from the Business Officer Institute into practical steps. By breaking down enterprise risk management into manageable pieces, schools can move beyond theory and embed risk awareness across daily operations. This proactive stance safeguards resources and strengthens institutional resilience in an unpredictable environment.
5. Leadership Lessons That Extend Beyond Finance.
Numbers matter, but leadership is ultimately about people and purpose. “ Wickedly Insightful Leadership Lessons” (November 18) drew inspiration from a Georgetown University business professor’s analysis of the blockbuster “Wicked: For Good.” The Wicked story reminds us that authenticity is central to effective leadership, and as such, we would do well to embrace vulnerability, communicate transparently and align decisions with mission. These insights may be a powerful antidote to the transactional mindset that can dominate financial roles.
I dare say that the gift of associations, and in NBOA’s case the truly incredible community that powers it, can’t be gift wrapped — that gift is invaluable.
Taken together, these themes reflect a profession — business office leadership — that is dynamic, collaborative and deeply mission-aligned. As we look ahead, let’s carry forward the rigor, authenticity and thoughtful optimism that defined this year’s conversations. My hope in sharing these reflections is to highlight insights you may have missed during a busy year and spark fresh thinking as we enter winter break and prepare for 2026.
This is yet another opportunity to demonstrate how your professional association, NBOA, works year-round to ensure you never have to reinvent the wheel or go it alone. I dare say that the gift of associations, and in NBOA’s case the truly incredible community that powers it, can’t be gift wrapped — that gift is invaluable.
I wish you a highly restorative break, and look forward to tackling all things independent school business, finance and operations together in the new year.
Find all of Jeff’s CEO Notebook columns in Net Assets Magazine.
