2026 NBOA Annual Meeting and Business Solutions Showcase

Where school business meets smart strategy

The 2026 NBOA Annual Meeting and Business Solutions Showcase is the premier gathering for business officers in independent schools, featuring peer-led sessions, deep dives into industry trends, and a chance to network with decision-makers. 

The event features cutting-edge practices in financial planning, risk management, capital projects, staffing strategies, and more. 

Many sessions are panel-based or case studies — so you get actionable takeaways, not just theory.

Be sure to attend these informative sessions presented by CLA professionals:

We Received New Funding: Now What?
Tuesday, March 3  |  2:30 – 4 p.m.

CLA speaker: Steven Johnson

When schools receive new funding from a government source, it often comes with strings attached, such as additional reporting and compliance requirements. This session will guide schools that are pursuing or have obtained such funding through what to expect. We’ll look at these requirements from the perspectives of auditors and school business officers, and discuss what steps can be taken to avoid findings of noncompliance.

Learning objectives:

• Learn what types of requirements schools may face after receiving new funding.
• Identify potential areas of noncompliance and explore how schools can address them proactively, before they turn into reportable findings.

The Power of Partnership: Finance and Development in Harmony
Tuesday, March 3  |  2:30 – 4 p.m.

CLA speakers: Tasha Kay, Karen Lo

In independent schools, business offices and development teams often have different objectives and communication styles, which can lead to tension, misunderstandings and misalignment. Join us to learn how to offset these challenges with proven strategies for fostering a healthy, collaborative environment. Through real-world examples, this session will demonstrate how both departments can thrive, even when goals and campaign priorities differ.

Learning objectives:

• Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that often arise between finance and development teams — and the risks an unhealthy dynamic can pose to your institution.
• Understand and embrace the distinct roles that each department plays within an independent school.
• Explore innovative ways to integrate financial and development systems.