Press Release: NAES Announces New Episcopal School Leadership Certificate Program and Appointment of Brandon Jacobs as Inaugural Program Manager
NEW YORK, NY — Feb. 3, 2026 — The National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) announces the creation of a new leadership certificate program, a one-year professional development opportunity designed to equip current and aspiring heads of school, chaplains, administrators, and future Episcopal school leaders with the knowledge, skills, and conviction needed to lead with moral and ethical integrity. NAES is also pleased to introduce Brandon Jacobs as the inaugural program manager, who will oversee the program’s launch, recruitment, and ongoing implementation.
Through a blend of online coursework, webinars, facilitated discussions, virtual and in-person gatherings, and a capstone, school-based project, participants will engage in sustained formation focused on understanding Episcopal identity, values-based leadership, spiritual grounding, and the cultivation of thriving school communities. Taking place over the course of a year, the program—designed for participants who are working full-time—is divided into four main modules, each centered on a key aspect of Episcopal identity.
“Supporting school leaders is central to the work of the Association and to our mission to serve those who serve Episcopal schools,” said the Rev. David A. Madison, D.Min., NAES Executive Director. “Our leadership certificate program will equip leaders with practical tools for governance, strategic planning, and day-to-day school operations—while grounding their work in the values, history, and distinctive character of Episcopal schools.”
Brandon Jacobs, who will serve as the founding program manager, brings more than a decade of experience supporting independent and mission-driven schools across the United States and internationally as an education leadership consultant. Most recently, he served as Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Practice Leader and Search Consultant at Carney, Sandoe & Associates (CSA), leading more than forty national and international searches and overseeing professional development initiatives and other strategic projects. Prior to his work at CSA, Jacobs held senior DEIB leadership positions at The Shipley School and The Hill School, his alma mater, where he also taught upper-school classes, coached athletics, and supported students as an advisor and college counselor.
Reflecting on his new role, Brandon shared: “I am incredibly excited and honored to step into this role at NAES. Throughout my career, I have been drawn to the powerful intersection of leadership, formation, and faith in schools. This program represents a unique opportunity to walk alongside current and aspiring leaders as they deepen their sense of purpose, strengthen their moral and spiritual grounding, and lead communities with courage, compassion, and integrity. I look forward to building on the program’s strong foundation and partnering with educators across NAES to help cultivate leaders who are not only effective, but deeply rooted in values and vocation.”
The new leadership certificate program will launch in the 2026–27 school year. Details about the program, including curriculum and application process, will be announced later this year. For more information, please visit www.episcopalschools.org/leadership-certificate.
The National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES) is an independently incorporated, voluntary membership organization that supports, serves, and advocates for the vital work and ministry of those who serve nearly 800 Episcopal schools and early childhood education programs throughout the Episcopal Church, as well as school establishment efforts. Chartered in 1965, with historic roots dating to the 1930s, NAES is the only pre-collegiate educational association that is both national in scope and Episcopal in character. The Association advances Episcopal education and strengthens Episcopal schools through essential services, resources, conferences, and networking opportunities on Episcopal school identity, leadership, and governance, and on the spiritual and professional development of school leaders.