Blackbaud's K–12 Advisory Board Retreat: A Showcase of Servant Leadership and Unique Vision

Kimberley Martin

Have you ever wondered how the collective voice of today’s K–12 customer makes its way across Blackbaud? Look no further than our talented and dedicated Blackbaud K–12 Executive Advisory Board.The Board consists of 15 to 22 members drawn from all offices and disciplines of private schools: Admissions, Marketing and Communication, Technology, Advancement, Business Operations, Registrar, and Teaching and Learning. Blackbaud is represented by the K–12 Product Management team, Customer Success, and Marketing.



It meets nearly monthly to discuss key topics, supplemented by smaller subcommittee meetings that allow members to get deeper into the weeds. Board members have the opportunity to participate in early adopter programs (EAPs), providing critical feedback before releases and enhancements are rolled out for general availability. Blackbaud also partners with our advisors to present at conferences, host regional meet-ups, and support the K–12 experience at bbcon. Each year culminates with our annual retreat.



Our executive director, Hiram Cuevas, captures the true spirit of the Board in the reflection that follows—servant leadership at its finest.

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By: Hiram Cuevas

Director of Information Systems and Academic Technology, St. Christopher’s School

Executive Director of Blackbaud’s K–12 Executive Advisory Board



At Blackbaud’s headquarters in Charleston, SC, the Blackbaud K–12 Advisory Board, comprising representatives from 17 diverse schools, gathered for a 2.5-day meeting in December. This assembly was not just a routine board gathering, it was a vivid display of what Blackbaud’s Elizabeth Bottonari affectionately refers to as a collection of "snowflakes." Each school, unique and beautiful in its approach, came together with a shared vision of providing the best tools to support teachers, families, and students.



The variety of schools represented was a testament to the board's commitment to inclusivity and diversity. From non-secular, secular, boarding, non-boarding, and geographic variability, each member brought a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on education. This diversity is crucial in understanding and serving the needs of the K–12 sector holistically.



A significant highlight of the retreat was the deep dive into all things Blackbaud. We had the privilege of having product and customer success managers in attendance who enriched our discussions with their insights and expertise. Their presence underscored Blackbaud's commitment not just to providing solutions, but also understanding and addressing the evolving needs of the education sector.



Moreover, the retreat was further enhanced by the presence of several of Blackbaud’s top executives, including Mark Davis (Head of Education Products), Page Bullington (VP, Vertical Customer Success), Carrie Cobb (Chief Data Officer), and Todd Lant (Chief Customer Success Officer). Their collective contributions to our conversations were invaluable and proved Blackbaud’s ongoing commitment to serving K–12 private and independent schools. Their perspectives and experiences brought a new depth to our discussions, highlighting the importance of cross-functional collaboration in achieving our goals.



The retreat's agenda was meticulously crafted to address a range of topics crucial to K–12. A few of the topics included:

1. Extending the value of Blackbaud solutions via third-party partnerships in the Blackbaud Marketplace
2. Leveraging AI in a responsible manner to innovate and drive improved insights into school data
3. Connecting data and workflows across Blackbaud’s Total School Solution via the Common Records Engine

Overall, we engaged in strategic discussions about technology's role in education, how to better serve our communities, and the future direction of Blackbaud's K-12 solutions. These conversations were not just theoretical but grounded in the reality of our schools' day-to-day experiences.



One of the most inspiring aspects of the retreat was witnessing the board members embodying the essence of servant leadership. Each member, despite their individual achievements and positions, demonstrated a genuine commitment to serving all schools and their communities. This selfless approach is what sets the Blackbaud K–12 Executive Advisory Board apart and drives its success.



As we discussed our shared challenges and brainstormed solutions, it became evident that our collective strength lies in our diversity and unity of purpose. Each school, like a snowflake, is indeed unique and beautiful, yet together, we form a powerful force for positive change in the K–12 educational landscape.



With a full agenda, there was still time for some fun and fellowship. The annual school t-shirt swap is a great way to come home with some schwag from another school. Our Shark Tank presentations regularly bring great ideas to the forefront for the product managers—most recently the List ID in advanced lists. And a special thanks to Blackbaud for the opportunity to tour the International African American Museum.



In conclusion, the Blackbaud K–12 Executive Advisory Board retreat was not just a meeting of minds, but a convergence of hearts dedicated to the noble cause of education. It was a reaffirmation of our commitment to being servant leaders, each contributing our unique strengths towards the shared goal of empowering the next generation of exceptional graduates. As we look forward, we are energized by the possibilities and ready to embrace the challenges that lie ahead, united in our vision and purpose.