Connect with SPARC Team Members at NBOA/NAIS

Next week, independent school leaders from around the country will come together for two back-to-back annual conferences, and SPARC team members will be there to present and engage with auxiliary professionals.

SPARC Executive Director Nat Saltonstall, who will present at both conferences, highlights the importance of gatherings such as NBOA and NAIS. "They are invaluable opportunities for SPARC to elevate the conversation around the critical role auxiliary programs play in supporting schools' missions, enhancing student experiences, and driving financial sustainability." 

The 2025 NBOA Annual Meeting kicks off in New York at the Marriott Marquis, running from February 23-26. Stop by Table 619 to meet with the SPARC team on Monday, 11:30am - Tuesday, 1:00pm. Then join Senior Advisor Karen McCann McClelland as she leads her session Tuesday at 3:30 pm: “Ensuring Safety Beyond School Hours: 24/7 Emergency Preparedness Planning."

Also on Tuesday, connect with the SPARC team and members at Connolly's Pub and Restaurant, just one block from the Marriott Marquis. Be sure to RSVP if you plan to attend!

Wednesday morning at 8:45 am, join "Case Studies in Auxiliary Program Growth: From Startup to Transformation” presented by SPARC Executive Director Nat Saltonstall, Breck School's Katie Peterson, and Senior Advisor Bob Rojee. 

From February 26-28, Nashville's Music City Center will host Thrive 2025, the NAIS Annual Conference. Join SPARC for drinks and tacos Thursday evening at 6:30 pm at the Yee-Haw Brewing Co. (RSVP here) Then on Friday at 1:30 pm, attend Nat, Katie, and Bob's session, “Case Studies in Auxiliary Program Growth - A Startup, a Transformation, and an Acceleration.”

"We look forward to sharing insights," Nat says, "and helping schools recognize the growing importance and value of these programs in today’s independent school landscape."

NBOA and NAIS are a great opportunity to connect with SPARC and fellow auxiliary leaders in an environment of growth, learning, and inspiration. If you want to be a part of the experience, you can still register for NAIS. While the NBOA meeting is at capacity, you can choose the virtual Annual Meeting on Demand option.

If you're attending either or both conferences, seek out SPARC team members and say hi! We hope to see you there.