The SPARC Leadership Institute Inspires Innovative Capstone Projects

The SPARC Leadership Institute is more than just a professional development program—it’s a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and strategic growth. Designed for Directors and Assistant Directors of Summer and Auxiliary Programs, the Institute provides participants with the knowledge, tools, and network they need to elevate their programs and leadership skills.

"My time in the SPARC LI has been one of the most incredible experiences I’ve had."

--Chanel Sudds, Open Window School

Led by SPARC Senior Advisors and auxiliary experts Karen McCann McClelland, David Sullivan, and Bob Rojee, the Institute runs over ten 90-minute sessions in which participants explore critical areas of auxiliary leadership, including strategic planning, financial management, program development, marketing, risk management, and personnel leadership. The highlight of the program is the Capstone Project--a chance for participants to create, share, and implement a real-world solution to a challenge in their own programs.

"My time in the SPARC LI has been one of the most incredible experiences I’ve had," said Chanel Sudds, Auxiliary Programs Manager for Open Window School. "I personally love leadership training because there’s always something new to learn, but what made this program even more special was the opportunity to share something I created with people who immediately understood the "why" behind it."

For her Capstone Project, Chanel created the The Big Book of Camp Magic!, a comprehensive guide to help summer programs establish traditions, rituals, and storytelling that build a sense of belonging. "The course was especially valuable for me as someone new to the Auxiliary Programs world," Chanel said. "It helped me gain insight into ways I can enhance our program at Open Window School and contribute to other initiatives within our community."

"I would encourage anyone starting in the world of Auxiliary to take this class."

--Gene Giammittorio, Congressional School

Director of Summer Programs and Student Services Gene Giammitorrio found the Institute helpful as he transitioned into the role of Director at Congressional School. "I really enjoyed the collaboration with colleagues and the expert knowledge the class provided," he said. Gene's Capstone Project is the Cargo Container School Store which explores the adaptive reuse of cargo containers, transforming them into cost-effective, flexible school stores that support sustainability and entrepreneurship. Gene appreciated the the access to SPARC leadership for support and input. "The class providers were available to answer any questions that we had and provided great feedback." 

Thayer Academy's Ian Wheeler, Manager of Auxiliary Services, said that the Institute exceeded his expectations. "In addition to all that I learned, collaborating with those in my seat at other institutions and hearing what they were going through put me at ease knowing that I was not alone in many of the necessary hurdles I am experiencing as I build this program out this year." 

"I'm not sure we at Thayer Academy would have been able to accomplish all that we have in the short time that we have without the assistance and knowledge provided by SPARC Leadership Institute."

--Ian Wheeler, Thayer Academy 

Ian said the highlight of the programs was creating his Capstone Project and "its correlation to the class as I was building everything out in real time during the leadership program." Ian created an innovative summer curriculum called Summer Academic Enrichment Programs with a Global Perspective & Entrepreneurship. His project integrates global learning and entrepreneurial thinking, preparing students for a rapidly evolving world. Ian's hard work paid off--he successfully launched registration for his new program in mid-January.

"I'm not sure we at Thayer Academy would have been able to accomplish all that we have," Ian said, "in the short time that we have, without the assistance and knowledge provided by SPARC Leadership Institute." 

The Leadership Institute inspired many other innovative Capstone Projects:

• Danielle Tripp of Oak Hall School: Department Structure, a framework to improve department organization, fostering collaboration and operational efficiency while addressing a directive to eliminate a staff position.

• Marissa Mohammed of St. Mary's Episcopal Day School: Afterschool Enrichment and Holiday/Summer Camp Contracts, in which she designed a contracting model to ensure clarity, consistency, and sustainability in partnerships with enrichment providers.

• Tanya Tilghman of Sidwell Friends: DMV Explorers Summer Camp Program Mission, an experiential learning camp concept rooted in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV), blending adventure, history, and hands-on exploration.

• Charlie Tierney of Northfield Mount Hermon: Summer College for Lifelong Learners, in which she proposed and launched a lifelong learning initiative, expanding summer programs beyond K-12 students to serve adult learners and professionals.

The next Leadership Institute will take place in November, 2025. When asked if they'd encourage other auxiliary leaders to enroll, participants were enthusiastic. Ian said that anyone thinking about joining "will gain more than you ever thought you would in terms of education, networking, and support."

"I would encourage anyone starting in the world of Auxiliary to take this class," said Gene, and Chanel echoed his thoughts about the benefits the Institute brings to new auxiliary leaders. "It gave me a broader perspective on just how expansive this field is and how deeply we impact so many different programs within our schools."

"I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of their role, collaborate with like-minded peers, and bring their ideas to life." Chanel said. "If you’ve been toying with a concept or a project, Spark LI provides the perfect space to explore, refine, and implement it alongside a supportive network of professionals."

Karen McCann McClelland contributed to this article.

SPARC members enjoy a discounted rate to the Leadership Institute as well as access to valuable professional development webinars, roundtables, tools, opportunities for collaboration, and unparalleled community support through SPARC Connect. Join us today!