Member Voices

This month, guest host Link Nicoll speaks with Greg Schneider, head of Belmont Hill School (MA). Greg discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of running a school for boys – including the importance of mentorship, the nuances of masculinity, and insights on approaching character development and mental health. Schneider also highlights the significance of faculty recruitment and the role of governance at his school. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

The Conversation: AI in the Classroom by audio podcast by NAIS

Ryann Fapohunda, Director of DEIB and Director of Specialists at Beauvoir, The National Cathedral Elementary School (DC), reflects on her journey from AmeriCorps literacy tutor to school leader and the values that guide her work. She discusses fostering belonging in early childhood education, supporting faculty through inclusive leadership, and navigating the dual roles of equity practitioner and team leader. Ryann shares how she builds community with families, cultivates age-appropriate conversations around identity, and leads with authenticity, transparency, and care. She also reflects on mentorship, motherhood, and the importance of sustaining educators so they can show up fully for students. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

This month we bring you another episode from our sister NAIS podcast, New View EDU. This episode from Season 8 features a conversation with NAIS President Debra Wilson and Jalaj Desai, Head of School at Saddle River Day School (NJ). Debra and Jalaj discuss how schools are responding to rapid technological change in different ways, and how Jalaj is integrating AI across all aspects of education at his school to drive innovation and future readiness. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Jessica Bremmer, English department chair and upper school English teacher at Westridge School (CA), shares how her background in English and passion for storytelling shape her leadership and commitment to amplifying student voices. She discusses creating spaces where students feel heard and empowered, supporting faculty in times of change, and fostering trust across the community. Jessica also reflects on her journey from the classroom to leadership, the importance of modeling vulnerability and reflection, and how independent schools can nurture belonging while embracing challenge and growth. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Spencer Burrows, Equity and Civic Engagement Coordinator at Pacific Ridge School (CA), shares how he’s making civics real for students through hands-on experiences like internships, advocacy trips, and direct engagement with local government. He discusses the creation of the Civic Leadership Academy, the importance of focusing on local issues to foster meaningful participation, and the development of essential soft skills—like communication and adaptability—throughout the program. Spencer also offers practical advice for schools looking to build or enhance their own civic engagement initiatives, all while navigating today’s polarized climate. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Michelle Hirschy, director of wellness, and Lucas Jacob, director of writing, communication, and media literacy at La Jolla Country Day School (CA), explore the challenges and opportunities of guiding students through today’s complex digital world. From the constant stream of online images and videos of war and terrorism to the rapid rise of AI tools and political extremism on social media, Hirschy and Jacob reflect on how their evolving roles intersect to support student well-being and media literacy. In this candid exchange, they share how schools can help students develop the skills and mindsets needed to engage with digital content critically, compassionately, and responsibly—while also supporting each other as sounding boards and collaborators in a rapidly shifting educational landscape.

Patricia Sasser, former Assistant Head of School for Academic Affairs at Saint Mary’s School (NC), shares her journey from a globally nomadic childhood to a career in television at ESPN, and ultimately to leadership in independent schools. Patricia reflects on how her early experiences shaped her curiosity, empathy, and people-first approach to leadership. She discusses the transition from journalism to education, the power of storytelling in fundraising, and her commitment to faculty well-being and retention. Patricia also explores the nuances of working in boarding versus day schools, single-sex versus coeducational environments, and the importance of mentoring and human-centered leadership. Now on sabbatical, she opens up about prioritizing family, pursuing creative passions, and continuing her doctoral work—all while staying deeply connected to the mission of supporting students and educators. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

In our last compilation episode, school leaders share their proudest moments. This episode is the final part of a series celebrating 100 episodes of Member Voices. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

As we continue to celebrate 100 episodes of Member Voices, we hear from school leaders about the biggest challenges they've faced, and where they turn to for inspiration. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

We are celebrating 100 episodes of Member Voices with compilations of responses to key questions from all our past seasons. In this episode, school leaders share what they've read that they feel has helped prepare them for this moment. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

To celebrate 100 episodes of Member Voices, we are releasing 5 “bitesize” episodes compiling responses to key questions from all our past seasons. In this episode, past guests share the top pieces of advice they're received on their professional journey. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

To celebrate 100 episodes of Member Voices, we are releasing 5 “bitesize” episodes compiling responses to key questions from all our past seasons. In this episode, past guests discuss their career journey and answer the question, “Was this always the plan?” You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

In this episode, two longtime thought partners—Jennifer Wallace, author of "Never Enough," and Dr. Tara Christie Kinsey, new head at Charlotte Country Day School—discuss what it means for educators to truly matter. They explore how school leaders can foster a culture where teachers feel seen, supported, and valued—and why that sense of mattering is foundational not only to teacher resilience, but to student success and thriving school communities. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Todd Herauf, Head of School at The Galloway School (TX), reflects on his transition from public education to independent schools, the lessons he's carried forward, and the values that guide his leadership style. He shares how a commitment to people-first leadership, clear communication, and relationship-building has helped him strengthen school culture, engage with the board, and support his faculty. Todd also discusses the joys and challenges of leading a small school, his approach to governance and strategic change, and what inspires him most as a lifelong educator. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Rob Short, Head of School at Trinity Episcopal School (VA), discusses how his school integrates innovation, AI, and creativity across the curriculum while fostering student wellness and agency. Rob shares the story behind their “Discover Your Path” philosophy, the design of their discovery period and innovation challenges, and the importance of balancing new technologies with ethical thinking and human connection. He reflects on his own journey from microbiology to school leadership and offers insights into navigating complexity through strategic planning and student-centered design. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Liz Joyce, School Counselor at Nashoba Brooks School (MA), discusses the multifaceted challenges she faces in her role - particularly regarding student wellbeing - the impact of social media, and the importance of engaging with parents. She emphasizes the need for relationally based learning and community support among faculty and staff. Liz reflects on her professional journey, the lessons learned, and the evolving landscape of child development post-COVID, while also sharing her proudest moments in helping students and families navigate challenges. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Brenna Foley speaks with Sarah Odell, PhD, Dean of Faculty at San Francisco University High School (CA), to discuss her research on gender equity and women in leadership. Sarah shares insights from her work on the challenges women face in the leadership pipeline, the evolving landscape of hiring and retention in independent schools, and strategies for fostering inclusive school communities. She also reflects on her personal journey, the mentors who shaped her career, and the importance of balancing innovation with institutional values. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Jackie Wolking speaks with Ben Farrell, Interim Head of School at New England Innovation Academy (MA), to discuss the role of AI in education and innovation. Ben shares how his school embraces emerging technologies, engages students in shaping AI policies, and fosters a culture of experimentation and adaptation. He also reflects on his journey in education, the importance of mentorship, and how independent schools can prepare students for an AI-driven future. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.

Margaret Anne Rowe speaks with Connie Coker, Head of St. Anne's School (MD), to discuss her journey in education and leadership. Connie shares her experiences transitioning from public to independent schools, the influence of mentors, and the parallels between her role as a school leader and her background as a competitive soccer goalkeeper. You can find some related NAIS resources from this episode by visiting nais.org/membervoices.