Culver Academies Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Culver Academies has 4 executives leading key functions including financial management, operational oversight, human resources, and alumni leadership.

Dedicated to fostering excellence on a 1,700 acre lakeside campus, Culver Academies empowers students from across the globe through rigorous academic standards and internationally-recognized leadership programs.

Leadership Roles at Culver Academies

  • Chief Financial Officer - Brian Baker
  • Pipe Drum Institute Liv Hist Gp Chief Operating Officer - Brent Van Norman
  • 1956 Class President - William Hanning
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Shellie Hicks
  • Brian Baker - Chief Financial Officer

    Brian Baker, the Chief Financial Officer at Culver Academies, manages the fiscal health of the institution. Overseeing long-term endowment growth and annual operating budgets, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the sustainability of the 1,700 acre campus infrastructure. Baker directs financial planning initiatives that support academic excellence and facility maintenance across the lakeside grounds. By aligning resource allocation with the strategic mission of the school, the Chief Financial Officer facilitates the expansion of educational programs for students arriving from 40 states and 25 countries. Brian Baker maintains rigorous oversight of institutional assets, providing the necessary capital to sustain high-level extracurricular activities. Through precise budgetary control and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial future of the organization, enabling the continued development of premier leadership training environments for the entire student body.
    Brian Baker

    Brent Van Norman - Pipe Drum Institute Liv Hist Gp Chief Operating Officer

    Brent Van Norman, the Pipe Drum Institute Liv Hist Gp Chief Operating Officer at Culver Academies, directs the daily logistical operations of the specialized historical and musical programs. Overseeing the integration of traditional performance arts into the broader campus curriculum, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that the Pipe Drum Institute maintains its high standards of excellence. Van Norman coordinates the scheduling and resource requirements for these unique extracurricular offerings, facilitating student participation in regional and national events. By managing the operational logistics of the living history group, the Chief Operating Officer supports the school's mission of developing leadership through immersive experiences. Brent Van Norman optimizes the use of campus facilities for these programs, ensuring that every performance and historical demonstration aligns with the academic rigor expected at the institution. This role drives the operational success of specialized student engagement initiatives.

    William Hanning - 1956 Class President

    William Hanning, the 1956 Class President at Culver Academies, directs alumni engagement and philanthropic initiatives for the historic class. Overseeing the connection between legacy graduates and current campus programs, the 1956 Class President ensures that the values of the institution remain central to the alumni experience. Hanning coordinates fundraising efforts that support the maintenance of the 1,700 acre campus and the expansion of leadership opportunities for current students. By facilitating communication between the school and the alumni network, the 1956 Class President fosters a culture of lifelong commitment to the institution. William Hanning drives the success of class-specific reunions and outreach projects, ensuring that the historical perspective of the 1956 cohort continues to influence the modern academic environment. This leadership role bridges the gap between past traditions and future growth, securing the ongoing support of the global alumni community.

    Shellie Hicks - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Shellie Hicks, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Culver Academies, manages the recruitment and retention of faculty and staff dedicated to the school's mission. Overseeing talent development and organizational culture, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the institution attracts educators capable of meeting the highest academic standards. Hicks directs the implementation of professional development programs that support the diverse needs of a global workforce serving students from 25 countries. By fostering an environment of excellence and accountability, the Chief Human Resources Officer aligns personnel strategies with the long-term goals of the lakeside campus. Shellie Hicks maintains compliance with employment regulations while promoting a culture of leadership and service among all employees. Through the strategic management of human capital, the Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the foundation of the school, ensuring that every staff member contributes effectively to the overall student experience.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Culver Academies Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Culver Academies?
    Culver Academies is led by Brian Baker (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Brent Van Norman (Pipe Drum Institute Liv Hist Gp Chief Operating Officer) and William Hanning (1956 Class President).
    Who is part of Culver Academies’s executive team?
    The executive team of Culver Academies includes leaders such as Brian Baker (Chief Financial Officer), Brent Van Norman (Pipe Drum Institute Liv Hist Gp Chief Operating Officer), William Hanning (1956 Class President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Culver Academies have?
    Culver Academies has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Culver Academies’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Culver Academies includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Pipe Drum Institute Liv Hist Gp Chief Operating Officer, 1956 Class President, Chief Human Resources Officer.