OUR FOCUS:
SCHOOL
LEADERSHIP
About Us
Our Vision Our Vision Our Vision Our Vision Our Vision Our Vision
Our Vision Our Vision Our Vision Our Vision Our Vision Our Vision
Our
Vision
Our Vision for Leaders:
Inspired, Equipped, Connected
In a world where too many leaders feel drained, overwhelmed and isolated, we’re on a mission to create transformation. We have an audacious goal: to completely redesign the experience of Adventist school leaders—all the way from how principals are prepared for leadership roles to how they are supported on the job and recognized for their impact. Our programs equip leaders with the skills and mindset to face their challenges with creativity and resilience.
We believe that with a robust and intentional ecosystem of support, we will inspire more professionals to step into leadership roles and embolden existing leaders to take daring leaps forward.
We work in partnership with YOU to imagine what school leadership can be.
As an initiative of the Bainum Family Foundation, we wholeheartedly recognize that the strength of our efforts lies in the power of connections. Over the years, we have built partnerships with seasoned leaders and trailblazers in the education industry, as well as young aspiring leaders. Our leadership programs are a testament to the spirit of co-creation and collaboration, developed hand-in-hand with those most impacted by them.
GET TO KNOW US
Director
Kase is driven to ignite boldness and courage within leaders. Having been a principal, pastor and teacher, Kase is known for running toward big ideas. She spearheaded a remarkable turnaround effort at Mile High Academy in Denver, Colorado, that resulted in significant enrollment gains and the purchase of a new building. Kase excels at building bridges, connecting individuals, and transforming dreams into tangible realities at lightening speed. Kase also serves her community to the fullest, leading youth programs within her church, volunteering on nonprofit boards, and finding every opportunity to inspire others. Kase finds solace and inspiration when relaxing with her husband and two children at the beach.
Senior program manager
Melanie has worked alongside Adventist schools for 16 years leading school improvement initiatives in nonprofit and foundation settings. An idea generator and implementer, Melanie possesses a remarkable ability to identify opportunities for growth and turn ideas into reality. Melanie has played a pivotal role in designing the executive coaching program for principals and other ACE Academy programs. Melanie inspires others to embrace change, seek opportunities for growth, and create extraordinary experiences in every endeavor. She enjoys adventuring with her two children and husband—camping, climbing, road tripping, and planning magical kids’ parties.
program manager
With more than 20 years of experience in Adventist boarding schools as both a teacher and principal, Steve knows firsthand how crucial it is to provide meaningful support and practical training to leaders who want to become true change-makers in their communities. Steve is known for his encouraging spirit, entertaining personality, and willingness to challenge the status quo, offering a unique blend of support and lightheartedness to the world of school leadership. When not coordinating leadership programs, Steve can be found tending to a small-scale homestead alongside his wife and four children, where they keep honeybees, chickens, and goats
The Way We Work
We are…
1
Bold
We seek to create extraordinary support for extraordinary leaders—to lead by example, try new things and be resilient.
2
3
We seek to develop fresh and creative approaches to overcoming challenges and solving problems.
4
Centered in
Connection
We connect personally with every leader in our programs, offering a space to share victories, occasional battle scars, and collective wisdom.
5
Full of Surprises
6
Champions for
Inclusion & Equity
We instill a visionary mindset within leaders so that all students and their families are treated as cherished contributors with limitless potential.
7
Grounded
in Grace
Relationships come at the heart of our work. We practice genuine care for one another as we navigate new territory together.
The Way We Work
We are...
1
Bold
We seek to create extraordinary support for extraordinary leaders—to lead by example, try new things and be resilient.
2
Curious
We ask questions and stay curious so that our programs and resources are responsive to the dynamic needs of leaders.
3
Imaginative
We seek to develop fresh and creative approaches to overcoming challenges and solving problems.
4
Centered in
Connection
We connect personally with every leader in our programs, offering a space to share victories, occasional battle scars, and collective wisdom.
5
Full of Surprises
We break down silos of traditional leadership development to create an unconventional, fun and inspirational experience.
6
Champions for Inclusion & Equity
We instill a visionary mindset within leaders so that all students and their families are treated as cherished contributors with limitless potential.
7
Grounded in
Grace
Relationships come at the heart of our work. We practice genuine care for one another as we navigate new territory together.
