Advancement and communications leaders know how to think big and how to get things done—which makes them uniquely equipped to lead their schools’ strategic planning efforts. From framing mission and values, to facilitating community engagement, to translating a head’s 30,000-foot vision into an actionable plan, these leaders often sit at the crossroads of vision and execution.

Representing three schools around the country —Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Washington — advancement and communications directors will share how they stepped beyond traditional job descriptions to co-lead strategic planning at their institutions. Participants will hear stories about what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish they had known: from managing consultants and expectations, to balancing the process with day-to-day responsibilities, to bringing the final plan to life.

Attendees will leave with practical strategies, lessons learned, and the confidence to position themselves as leaders in strategic planning—while embracing the joys and challenges of shaping their schools’ futures.