Just a few weeks ago, the independent school business office community came together in Orlando for the 2026 NBOA Annual Meeting—and by every measure, it was a standout program.

With raving reviews and record energy throughout the week, the conference once again affirmed its place as the nation’s premier gathering of independent school CFOs, Controllers, HR professionals, and other business office staff, as well as our industry business partners who support them.

During Tuesday’s general session, NBOA President and CEO Jeff Shields highlighted the growing role of NBOA Advisory Services in advancing business excellence across the sector. But what truly stood out over the course of the week was something bigger: the experience as a whole—and why this conference continues to be essential for both new and experienced CFOs.

Learning That Meets the Moment

Independent school business officers operate in increasingly complex environments—financially, operationally, and strategically. The Annual Meeting met that reality head-on, offering sessions that were timely, practical, and grounded in the lived experiences of school leaders. 

For newer CFOs, the conference provided a powerful orientation to the profession: shared language, proven frameworks, and real-world insight into what it means to lead a modern business office. For seasoned leaders, the learning ran just as deep—challenging assumptions, introducing new tools and perspectives, and sparking ideas that can elevate already-strong practices.

What made the learning especially meaningful was its relevance. Sessions didn’t live in theory; they reflected the real pressures schools are facing and the real decisions CFOs are making every day.

A Community That Strengthens the Work

Equally important was the opportunity to connect—with peers, mentors, and colleagues from across the country. There is something uniquely powerful about being in a room with people who truly understand the challenges and responsibilities of independent school business leadership.

Throughout the week, conversations unfolded organically—in sessions, in hallways, over meals—creating space to share ideas, compare approaches, and learn from one another. For many attendees, these relationships become ongoing sources of support long after the conference ends.

In a profession that can feel isolating at times, the Annual Meeting reinforces a simple but important truth: no one is doing this work alone.

Meaningful Engagement with Business Partners

The conference also provided valuable opportunities to engage with the business partners who support independent schools. These relationships are most effective when they are grounded in trust, understanding, and shared purpose—and the Annual Meeting creates the right environment for that kind of engagement.

Rather than transactional interactions, the conversations were thoughtful and collaborative, focused on how partners can better understand school contexts and how schools can make smarter, more strategic use of external expertise.

Space to Reflect—and Return Reenergized

Perhaps one of the most underappreciated aspects of the Annual Meeting is the gift of time away from school—time to think, reflect, and gain perspective. Stepping out of the day-to-day allows business officers to zoom out, consider new ideas, and return with renewed clarity and purpose.

Nearly everyone leaves the conference with something tangible to bring back to their school or team: a new approach, a fresh question, a refined strategy, or simply the confidence that comes from learning alongside peers.

Advancing School Missions—and NBOA’s Mission

Ultimately, the impact of the Annual Meeting extends far beyond the conference itself. The ideas, relationships, and energy that attendees carry home help strengthen their schools—advancing each institution’s mission and, collectively, advancing NBOA’s mission of business excellence in independent schools.

The success of this year’s Annual Meeting was a powerful reminder of why this gathering matters so deeply. It’s not just a conference. It’s a community, a catalyst, and a cornerstone of professional growth for independent school business leaders at every stage of their careers.

See you in Dallas in 2027!