Partner Talks: Jeff Shields from NBOA on AI, Governance, and the Power of Collaborative Leadership

Talking Technology with ATLIS

As the year draws to a close, it is the time of year to reflect on the transformative trends that have shaped independent schools. In a recent podcast, Jeff Shields, the dynamic CEO of the National Business Officers Association (NBOA), shared insights into the intersection of artificial intelligence, collaborative leadership, and the evolving landscape of school governance.

The discussion delved into the impact of AI on school operations, revealing stories of how institutions have embraced this technology to streamline administrative tasks. From crafting emails to reimagining job descriptions, AI has found a place in the daily routine of school administrators. Co-host Hiram Cuevas highlighted an innovative approach taken by their advancement office. By leveraging AI, they efficiently created a job description for an archivist position, illustrating the versatility of these technological tools.

Jeff Shields emphasized the importance of collaboration between different facets of school management, particularly the relationship between CFOs and IT professionals. This collaboration, he believes, is essential for driving the strategic vision of a school. The podcast touched on the siloed nature of educational institutions and how breaking down these barriers can lead to a more efficient and impactful learning environment.

A significant portion of the conversation revolved around the early stages of AI adoption in education. The co-hosts acknowledged that while some might view AI as a recent phenomenon, it has been around for decades. Drawing a parallel to the past, they reminisced about the iconic "Clippy" from Microsoft Office, highlighting the long-standing presence of AI tools in our professional lives.

The dialogue then shifted to the overarching theme of leadership and governance. Jeff Shields, drawing from his extensive background, discussed the evolving nature of governance within the independent school sector. He emphasized the need for strategic planning, with technology playing a central role in achieving institutional goals. The speakers discussed the importance of fostering a strong relationship between the CFO and IT professional to ensure the effective execution of the school's strategic plan.

The conversation also touched upon the Jeffrey Shields Innovation Award, an accolade bestowed upon schools that demonstrate outstanding achievements in business, finance, and operations. Jeff Shields expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to highlight the innovative practices taking place in schools and stressed the importance of sharing these success stories across the educational landscape.

As the podcast unfolded, Jeff Shields shared his passion for governance and the continuous learning experiences it brings. He detailed the board's current focus on "pace and space," an initiative aimed at creating a more inclusive boardroom environment.

In a lighthearted turn, the speakers delved into a discussion about their favorite pie flavors, tying in the (at the time of the recording) upcoming Thanksgiving celebrations. From pecan pie with vanilla ice cream to the classic cherry pie, the conversation became a delightful blend of professional insights and personal anecdotes.

The podcast wrapped up with a reflection on the year, gratitude for fulfilling professional roles, and a call for educators to celebrate their accomplishments. Jeff Shields shared his resolution for the upcoming year—encouraging everyone in the education sector to take a moment to appreciate the positive impact they make on students and colleagues.

In conclusion, the podcast provided a rich tapestry of insights into the evolving landscape of independent school leadership, AI integration, collaborative governance, and the importance of celebrating achievements both big and small. Jeff Shields' passion for his work and the educational community shone through, leaving listeners inspired and reflective as they approach the new year.