Program Overview

Executive Leadership Academy

The Executive Leadership Academy (ELA) is a ten-month program designed to provide Catholic school leaders with institutional vision and essential business practices for leading effective Catholic schools.

Objectives

The ELA aims to accompany leaders interested in developing strategic thinking and refining operational management. The program provides leaders with the essentials to:

• Drive generative thinking and planning with mission-aligned priorities
• Manage and develop one's board with proven best practices for strategic results
• Steward financial resources through practical knowledge of budgeting and financial planning
• Raise the imperative for advancement, expanding the school's development efforts to guarantee educational and institutional sustainability
• Oversee the development of the school's unique value proposition and marketing strategies
• Manage human resources and measure mission effectiveness

ELA Information

Audience

Participants include sitting PreK-12 Catholic school leaders and senior administrators with active advisory, specified jurisdiction, or independent boards.

Dates

Dates for the Executive Leadership Academy will be announced on January 5, 2026.

Costs

• $2,500 per participant. Some scholarship support may be available for eligible participants.
• Travel costs to in-person opening, retreat, and commencement are the responsibility of the participant.
• Meals and lodging are included in the overall program cost.

ELA Leadership Coaches

The program features the following leadership coaches:

• Dan Carmody
• Maureen A. Herrmann
• Kris Knowles, Ed.D.
• Melinda Lawlor Skrade, Ph.D.
• David Sorkin, Ed.D.

ELA Facilitator

The program director is Christopher Martin.

Program Details

Leaders who complete the Executive Leadership Academy receive a micro-credential from the Roche Center for Catholic Education. This competency-based recognition is given to individuals who attend the in-person events, engage in the monthly PLCs, meaningfully participate in coaching, and complete a final capstone project.

The program includes monthly sessions, a resource site, and personal coaching, empowering leaders with critical skills in strategic planning, board management, and development. The ELA has already helped shape leadership at participating schools with strengthened clarity and vision.