Culver Academies Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Dedicated to fostering academic excellence and character development, Culver Academies maintains a premier leadership environment on a 1,700-acre campus while preparing students from diverse global backgrounds for future success.

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 and long-term economic sustainability of the institution. Overseeing the endowment, annual operating budgets, and capital expenditure projects, the Chief Financial Officer ensures resources align with the mission of providing world-class education on the Lake Maxinkuckee campus. Baker directs financial planning and analysis to support the expansion of academic facilities and extracurricular programs. By monitoring revenue streams from diverse international student populations, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the stability required for institutional growth. Collaboration with the Board of Trustees remains a priority for Brian Baker, as the Chief Financial Officer presents detailed reports on asset allocation and risk management. Through rigorous oversight of institutional funds, Baker secures the financial foundation necessary for the school to continue attracting top-tier students from across the globe while maintaining the historic 1,700-acre campus infrastructure.
    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 and specialized programming for the institution. Managing the complex requirements of the 1,700-acre campus, the Chief Operating Officer coordinates facility maintenance, safety protocols, and the integration of living history initiatives into the student experience. Van Norman oversees the operational efficiency of the campus, ensuring that the unique needs of the Pipe Drum Institute align with broader academic goals. By streamlining administrative workflows, the Chief Operating Officer supports the seamless execution of extracurricular programs that define the school. Brent Van Norman maintains high standards for campus safety and resource utilization, directly impacting the quality of life for students from 40 states and 25 countries. Through strategic management of physical assets and operational staff, the Chief Operating Officer facilitates an environment where leadership development thrives alongside rigorous academic pursuits.

    William Hanning - 1956 Class President

    William Hanning, the 1956 Class President at Culver Academies, drives alumni engagement and philanthropic support to sustain the institution's long-term vision. Overseeing outreach initiatives for the 1956 cohort, the 1956 Class President facilitates connections between past graduates and current campus leadership. Hanning coordinates fundraising efforts that directly support scholarships and the maintenance of the 1,700-acre campus, ensuring that future generations benefit from the same rigorous leadership training. By fostering a strong sense of community among alumni, the 1956 Class President strengthens the school's global network and influence. William Hanning works closely with the development office to align donor interests with the strategic priorities of the academy. Through consistent communication and event planning, the 1956 Class President maintains the legacy of the institution, ensuring that the values instilled on the shores of Lake Maxinkuckee remain central to the identity of every graduate, regardless of their current geographic location or professional field.

    Shellie Hicks - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Shellie Hicks, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Culver Academies, architects the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies for the entire faculty and staff. Overseeing recruitment, professional development, and employee relations, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the institution attracts educators capable of upholding the school's high academic standards. Hicks manages the workforce culture, fostering an environment that supports the mission of leadership development on the lakeside campus. By implementing comprehensive training programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer aligns staff performance with the evolving needs of a global student body. Shellie Hicks collaborates with department heads to optimize staffing levels and maintain a high-performing team dedicated to student success. Through the administration of benefits and compensation structures, the Chief Human Resources Officer drives retention and professional satisfaction across the organization. Hicks ensures that every staff member contributes effectively to the internationally-recognized programs that distinguish the school within the competitive education sector.

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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.