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2026 Independent School Leadership Forum

Monday, June 22, 2026 at 2:00 PM (EDT) to Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at 12:00 PM (EDT)

Hilton Charlotte University Place

8629 JM Keynes Dr
Charlotte, NC

Building Capacity & Expanding Influence

The Independent School Leadership Forum is a dynamic conference designed specifically for mid-level leaders in independent schools—division leaders, deans, associate heads, department chairs, admissions and advancement professionals, inclusion & belonging practitioners, and other key administrators. 

What sets this experience apart? You’ll learn directly from heads of school, former heads, and senior leaders.

Our speaker lineup features accomplished leaders who will share candid insights, practical strategies, and real-world lessons. This is a rare opportunity to

  • Learn how heads think about leadership and decision-making.
  • Ask questions in an open, strategic setting.
  • Build connections with mentor-level leaders beyond your own institution.
  • Expand your professional network with peers who understand your role.

Choose Your Learning Pathway
Tailor your experience based on the leadership challenges you’re navigating or mix and match sessions to chart your own course.

  • The People Path: How do I develop individuals in a way that benefits the school?
    Strengthen your ability to coach, grow, and lead people effectively.
  • The Change Path: How do I lead effectively when the challenge is complex and unclear?Build confidence in navigating ambiguity and driving meaningful progress.
  • The Systems Path: How do I build the systems and clarity my team needs to perform well?Create structures that empower your team and improve performance.

This forum offers more than inspiration—it provides a strategic space for professional growth, equipping you with the skills, perspective, and relationships needed to lead with confidence and clarity.

Join fellow independent school leaders who are ready to elevate their practice and expand their influence.

Registration: 

  • By February 27: Members $695 | Non-Members $829 
  • By April 10: Members $795 | Non-Members $929 
  • By June 5: Members $895 | Non-Members $1,029 
  • By June 17: Members $1,095 | Non-Members $1,229
  • After June 17: Members $1,295 | Non-Members $1,429
Lane Abrams
Lane Abrams Achievement Center Director Christ Church Episcopal School
Francis Akoto
Francis Akoto Finance Officer - Accounts Receivable Lincoln Community School
Sybil Blakeney
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Sybil Blakeney Assistant Head of School Palisades Episcopal School
Michelle Bostian
Michelle Bostian Executive Coach Bostian Coaching and Consulting
Tony Brown
Tony Brown Dean of Students Heathwood Hall Episcopal School
Helen Ezell
Helen Ezell English Teacher Bayside Academy
Michele Hamilton
Michele Hamilton Science Department Chair Bayside Academy
Lesley Harper
Lesley Harper Middle School Drama Teacher Bayside Academy
Nadia Johnson
Nadia Johnson Founder Small Axe Educational Consulting
Doreen Kelly
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Doreen Kelly Executive Coach The CREDS Group
Christina Lauer
Christina Lauer Teacher - Math Department Chair Bayside Academy
Carly Newell
Carly Newell Science Teacher/ MS Dept. Chair Bayside Academy
Emily Payne
Emily Payne Middle School Assistant Head Christ Church Episcopal School
Shelly Phillipps
Shelly Phillipps Teacher Bayside Academy
Katie Ray
Katie Ray English Department Chair Bayside Academy
Imana Sherrill
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Imana Sherrill Head of School Trinity Episcopal School-NC
Julie Thompson
Julie Thompson Director of ECC & Auxillary Programs St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School
Emily Williams
Emily Williams Coordinator of Religious Education Christ the King School

HOTEL RESERVATIONS: Hilton Charlotte University Place | 8629 JM Keynes Drive | Charlotte, NC 28262  

  • Group rate: $179
  • Cut-off date: May 22 or when the block is full (whichever comes first)
  • Reservation link here.

The hotel block is now open. If you receive an error message or if the block is full, please contact info@sais.org.

NOTE: SAIS does not utilize the services of a housing vendor for any events. Neither SAIS nor the hotel will call you to make reservations over the phone. Occasionally unauthorized third parties may attempt to coordinate your reservations. Please use only the above hotel links to secure your reservation directly with the hotel.

Event Policies & Acknowledgments

Review Event FAQs at this link.
  • For questions about event registration or special accommodations, contact info@sais.org
  • For questions about speakers and sessions, contact elizabeth@sais.org.
  • For questions about exhibiting, contact anna@sais.org.