NOTE :This
registration is for participating in an individual
session as well as access to the session recording and materials. To register anyone
affiliated with your school for access to the whole
series (access to all sessions and recordings), please refer to the School Wide Registration page.

BUILDING BETTER BOARDSWhat This Moment Affords Us: Opportunities in Equitable Governance Practicewith André Withers, 25-Year Independent School Administrator, DEI Expert, and Partner with Educators Collaborative Wednesday, April 1, 2026
12:00-1:00 PM PT 1:00-2:00 PM MT
Session Description
Using the current NAIS guidance and long standing best practices, the session will explore opportunities for inclusive governance practices as well as recommendations for supporting the Head of School as they pursue this element of culture and mission.
To view session details for the rest of the series, please visit our Building Better Boards page. Meet Our Facilitator
André Withers, 25-Year Independent School Administrator, DEI Expert, and Partner with Educators Collaborative
André is a visionary educational consultant whose expertise lies at the intersection of governance, strategic planning, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and executive leadership coaching. A keen strategist and dynamic public speaker, André has built a national reputation for delivering transformative insights and actionable solutions that drive meaningful change within schools and educational organizations. With over two decades of experience in the independent school sector, André is celebrated for his ability to guide institutions through complex challenges with clarity and confidence. As a sought-after retained consultant, he collaborates with boards, leadership teams, and faculty to design and implement strategic plans that not only align with their missions but also inspire future-focused innovation.
André’s influence extends beyond consulting rooms and board meetings. As an accomplished author, he has penned multiple thought-provoking articles featured in Independent School Magazine, where his writing addresses the evolving landscape of education, governance best practices, and strategies for cultivating inclusive school communities. Additionally, he is a recognized industry voice on the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) podcast, where he engages audiences with his deep insights and forward-thinking perspectives. An exceptional educator at heart, André is committed to empowering leaders and organizations to unlock their full potential. His engaging workshops and presentations are known for their energy, relevance, and practical takeaways, leaving audiences equipped to enact positive and sustainable change.
Whether he is advising on governance models, facilitating DEI initiatives, or coaching executives to excel in their roles, André brings a unique blend of expertise, empathy, and enthusiasm to every project. His work is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a steadfast commitment to helping schools create environments where students and educators alike can thrive.

Series Overview
In this series of workshops, attendees will explore the role of trustee, and provide a space for board members to learn from national thought leaders, experienced board chairs, heads of school and association leadership.
Offered throughout the year, each workshop has a theme for board improvement and actionable steps to move your school forward. Previously this workshop was recommended for those new to the role, but feedback was that it was universally valuable. All independent school board members are encouraged to attend.
Making the Most of Building Better Boards
Attendees can register for individual workshops or your board can register for full access for the series. All registrations include access to session recordings. If you have registered individually, the recording is for your own reference and should not be shared. If you register as a board, you are welcome to share the recording with anyone affiliated with your school.
Registration
Registration is now open! This registration is for participating in an individual session.All registrations to individual sessions include access to the session recording and resource materials. Each registrant will receive emails before and after the session with access and resource links for their personal use. Access is non-transferable and
links should not be shared. If you would like full access to sessions and recordings for your school and board, please consider registering for School Wide Registration.
Pricing
Single Workshop Registration (Includes access to workshop, recording, and session materials*.)
Member Schools | $55 per session
Non-Members | $85 per session
* Links to recordings and materials will remain active until August 31, 2026, so they may be used and reviewed throughout the school year and summer. Cancellation
Substitutions for registrations may be made any time prior to the session at no extra charge. Written cancellations received by 24-hours before the start time of the session are eligible for a refund after a $20 cancellation fee. Any cancellations received after the 24-hour window will be ineligible for refunds.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?Please feel free to reach out to any of us for the following:
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