Great Hearts Academies Executive and Leadership Team

Matthew Bushard, the Chief Financial Officer at Great Hearts Academies, directs all fiscal operations and financial strategy. Bushard manages budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the K-12 liberal arts curriculum. Overseeing the financial health of the organization, the Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with all relevant regulations and optimizes financial performance. This leadership role involves developing long-term financial models that sustain the tuition-free educational mission. By implementing robust financial controls, Matthew Bushard directly contributes to the stability and growth of Great Hearts Academies, securing resources for academic innovation and operational efficiency across all campuses.

Persephone Lee, the Blue Crew - President at Great Hearts Academies, directs critical operational functions and strategic implementation for the organization. Lee ensures the efficient delivery of services and support systems that underpin the K-12 liberal arts curriculum. Overseeing key initiatives, the Blue Crew - President drives operational excellence and resource optimization across all school sites. This executive role is fundamental to translating the educational philosophy into tangible, high-quality learning environments. By managing essential operational aspects, Persephone Lee directly contributes to the seamless execution of Great Hearts Academies' mission, reinforcing its commitment to providing a robust, tuition-free education.

Jess Vidal, the President at Great Hearts Academies, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the entire organization. Vidal guides the implementation of the K-12 liberal arts curriculum and ensures adherence to the core educational mission. Overseeing all major organizational initiatives, the President drives growth and maintains the high standards of academic excellence. This pivotal role involves fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the tuition-free charter school model. By championing the vision of Great Hearts Academies, Jess Vidal directly impacts the educational experience and future trajectory of the institution, solidifying its reputation for rigorous, humanities-based learning.

Helen Baxendale, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategy & Analytics at Great Hearts Academies, spearheads strategic initiatives and data-driven decision-making. Baxendale aligns organizational goals with analytical insights, driving improvements across educational programs and operational frameworks. Overseeing the development and execution of long-term strategic plans, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategy & Analytics ensures the K-12 liberal arts mission remains central to all endeavors. This critical role involves fostering collaboration between departments to enhance student outcomes and operational effectiveness. By leveraging advanced analytics, Helen Baxendale provides essential intelligence to leadership, guiding the continuous evolution of Great Hearts Academies' educational model and market position.

Jerilyn Olson, the Chief People Officer at Great Hearts Academies, leads all human capital management functions. Olson develops and implements strategies for talent acquisition, retention, and professional development, ensuring a high-caliber workforce dedicated to the K-12 liberal arts mission. Overseeing employee engagement and organizational culture, the Chief People Officer cultivates an environment that supports educators and staff. This leadership position is vital for attracting and nurturing talent essential to delivering a tuition-free, humanities-based education. By championing employee well-being and growth, Jerilyn Olson directly impacts the quality of instruction and the overall success of Great Hearts Academies, reinforcing its commitment to academic excellence and community.