Culver Academies Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Dedicated to fostering excellence on a 1,700 acre lakeside campus, Culver Academies cultivates global leaders through rigorous academic standards and internationally-recognized extracurricular programs that prepare students for success across diverse international landscapes.

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 the endowment and annual operating budgets, the Chief Financial Officer ensures resources support the 1,700 acre campus infrastructure. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board to maintain long-term financial sustainability while funding academic initiatives. By optimizing capital allocation, Brian Baker directly impacts the ability of the school to attract students from 40 states and 25 countries. The Chief Financial Officer monitors economic trends to safeguard the future of the academy. Through rigorous oversight of institutional assets, Baker secures the necessary funding for world-class facilities. This financial stewardship allows the school to maintain high academic standards. Ultimately, Baker provides the economic foundation required for the continued growth of the institution on the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee.
    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, manages the daily logistics of specialized extracurricular programs. Overseeing the operational requirements of the Pipe Drum Institute, the Chief Operating Officer ensures seamless integration with the broader academic schedule. This leadership role involves coordinating resources for historical performance groups and maintaining equipment standards. By streamlining administrative processes, Brent Van Norman directly impacts the efficiency of student participation in these unique programs. The Chief Operating Officer monitors program performance to ensure alignment with the mission of the school. Through the management of specialized staff and logistical support, Van Norman facilitates high-quality student experiences on the lakeside campus. This operational focus allows the academy to maintain its reputation for excellence in extracurricular activities. Ultimately, Van Norman supports the diverse educational offerings that define the student experience.

    William Hanning - 1956 Class President

    William Hanning, the 1956 Class President at Culver Academies, leads alumni engagement and philanthropic outreach. Overseeing the connection between historical graduates and current campus initiatives, the 1956 Class President ensures the legacy of the school remains vibrant. This leadership role involves organizing alumni events and fostering support for the 1,700 acre campus development. By facilitating communication between generations of students, William Hanning directly impacts the fundraising efforts that sustain the institution. The 1956 Class President coordinates with the administration to promote the values of the academy to a global network of alumni. Through the cultivation of long-term relationships, Hanning strengthens the community ties that span 40 states. This focus on alumni relations supports the ongoing mission of the school to produce leaders. Ultimately, Hanning preserves the traditions of the academy while encouraging future growth and innovation.

    Shellie Hicks - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Shellie Hicks, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Culver Academies, directs talent acquisition and faculty development. Overseeing the recruitment of educators capable of meeting high academic standards, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the institution attracts top-tier professionals. This leadership role involves managing employee relations and professional growth programs across the lakeside campus. By implementing comprehensive training initiatives, Shellie Hicks directly impacts the quality of instruction provided to students from 25 countries. The Chief Human Resources Officer maintains organizational culture through strategic policy development and performance management systems. Through the alignment of staff capabilities with the mission of the school, Hicks fosters an environment of excellence. This focus on human capital supports the broader goal of developing student leadership. Ultimately, Hicks drives the operational success of the academy by building a robust and dedicated workforce.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Education

    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.