National Heritage Academies Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

National Heritage Academies has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, technology, finance, people operations, and board governance.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, National Heritage Academies focuses on providing high-quality K-12 education, fostering student success through innovative learning environments and strong community partnerships.

Leadership Roles at National Heritage Academies

  • Chief Executive Officer - Jason Pater
  • Chief Financial Officer - Robert Owen
  • Board President - Renee Shepherd
  • Board President - Richard Gordon
  • President of the Board of Directors - Jason Holder
  • President - Eduardo Amaya
  • President & Chief Learning Officer - Nicholas Sheltrown
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Jeffrey Delonis
  • Chief Technology Officer - Eric Spangler
  • Chief People Officer - Courtney Samuels
  • Jason Pater - Chief Executive Officer

    Jason Pater, the Chief Executive Officer at National Heritage Academies, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. Pater's leadership ensures alignment across all departments, driving the company's mission to provide exceptional K-12 education. This executive guides the development and implementation of key initiatives that enhance student learning outcomes and foster a robust educational environment. The Chief Executive Officer's role involves close collaboration with the board and senior leadership to navigate market dynamics and secure sustainable growth. By focusing on innovation and operational efficiency, Jason Pater champions the continuous improvement of educational delivery and organizational effectiveness across all National Heritage Academies locations. This leadership position is central to maintaining the organization's commitment to academic rigor and student development.

    Robert Owen - Chief Financial Officer

    Robert Owen, the Chief Financial Officer at National Heritage Academies, manages the organization's financial health, planning, and reporting. Owen oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and investment management, ensuring financial stability and compliance with regulatory standards. This executive plays a pivotal role in resource allocation, supporting strategic initiatives and operational needs across the educational network. The Chief Financial Officer provides critical financial insights to guide decision-making and optimize profitability. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and exploring opportunities for fiscal efficiency, Robert Owen safeguards the organization's assets and supports its long-term sustainability. This leadership function is essential for transparent financial stewardship and enabling the continued expansion of high-quality educational services.

    Renee Shepherd - Board President

    Renee Shepherd, the Board President at National Heritage Academies, presides over board meetings and provides strategic guidance to the executive leadership team. Shepherd ensures the board effectively fulfills its governance responsibilities, overseeing policy development and long-term organizational planning. This leadership position involves championing the organization's mission and values, ensuring alignment between board directives and operational execution. The Board President facilitates communication between the board and the Chief Executive Officer, fostering a collaborative relationship focused on achieving institutional goals. By guiding strategic discussions and ensuring accountability, Renee Shepherd contributes significantly to the sustained success and ethical operation of National Heritage Academies. This role is critical for effective governance and strategic oversight.

    Richard Gordon - Board President

    Richard Gordon, the Board President at National Heritage Academies, guides the board's strategic oversight and governance functions. Gordon ensures the board upholds its fiduciary duties and provides critical counsel to the executive leadership team. This role involves fostering an environment of accountability and strategic alignment across the organization's educational initiatives. The Board President facilitates board deliberations, ensuring comprehensive review of organizational performance and future planning. By advocating for best practices in governance, Richard Gordon supports the integrity and effectiveness of National Heritage Academies' operations. This leadership position is vital for maintaining strong oversight and driving the organization's commitment to educational excellence.

    Jason Holder - President of the Board of Directors

    Jason Holder, the President of the Board of Directors at National Heritage Academies, leads the board in its oversight of the organization's strategic direction and governance. Holder ensures the board effectively monitors performance, approves major policies, and provides essential guidance to the executive team. This leadership capacity involves championing the organization's mission and ensuring adherence to its core values. The President of the Board of Directors facilitates board operations, promoting robust discussion and informed decision-making. By maintaining a focus on long-term sustainability and educational impact, Jason Holder contributes to the effective leadership and continued success of National Heritage Academies. This role is fundamental to strong corporate governance and strategic stewardship.
    Jason Holder

    Eduardo Amaya - President

    Eduardo Amaya, the President at National Heritage Academies, drives key operational initiatives and strategic partnerships that support the organization's growth. Amaya oversees specific programmatic areas, ensuring alignment with the company's educational mission and performance objectives. This executive role focuses on enhancing the delivery of educational services and fostering innovation within learning environments. The President works closely with other senior leaders to implement strategic plans and achieve organizational targets. By focusing on operational excellence and stakeholder engagement, Eduardo Amaya contributes to the overall effectiveness and expansion of National Heritage Academies' educational network. This leadership function is crucial for executing strategic priorities and advancing the organization's impact.

    Nicholas Sheltrown - President & Chief Learning Officer

    Nicholas Sheltrown, the President & Chief Learning Officer at National Heritage Academies, directs the organization's educational strategy and curriculum development. Sheltrown oversees all aspects of learning and instruction, ensuring high standards of academic achievement and pedagogical innovation. This executive role is dedicated to enhancing student learning outcomes through effective teaching methodologies and robust educational programs. The President & Chief Learning Officer collaborates with educators and administrators to foster a culture of continuous improvement in learning environments. By championing evidence-based practices and professional development, Nicholas Sheltrown ensures that National Heritage Academies provides an exceptional educational experience. This leadership position is central to the organization's commitment to academic excellence and student success.
    Nicholas Sheltrown

    Jeffrey Delonis - Chief Marketing Officer

    Jeffrey Delonis, the Chief Marketing Officer at National Heritage Academies, architects and executes comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and student enrollment. Delonis oversees all aspects of marketing, communications, and public relations, ensuring consistent messaging that reflects the organization's educational values. This role is critical in connecting with prospective families and communities, highlighting the unique benefits of National Heritage Academies' educational model. The Chief Marketing Officer drives initiatives that expand market reach and strengthen stakeholder engagement across various platforms. By analyzing market trends and consumer insights, Jeffrey Delonis optimizes campaign performance and resource allocation to achieve enrollment targets and support institutional growth. This leadership function is vital for communicating the organization's impact and fostering positive perceptions within the education sector.
    Jeffrey Delonis

    Eric Spangler - Chief Technology Officer

    Eric Spangler, the Chief Technology Officer at National Heritage Academies, spearheads the organization's technology strategy and infrastructure development. Spangler directs the implementation of innovative technological solutions that support educational delivery, administrative efficiency, and data security. This executive is responsible for evaluating and integrating new technologies to enhance learning environments and streamline operational processes across all schools. The Chief Technology Officer ensures robust IT support, manages cybersecurity protocols, and champions digital transformation initiatives. By fostering a culture of technological advancement, Eric Spangler enables educators and students to leverage cutting-edge tools for improved academic performance and engagement. This critical role underpins the organization's ability to adapt to evolving educational landscapes and maintain a competitive technological edge.

    Courtney Samuels - Chief People Officer

    Courtney Samuels, the Chief People Officer at National Heritage Academies, leads human resources strategy and talent management initiatives. Samuels oversees recruitment, employee development, compensation, benefits, and fostering a positive organizational culture. This executive is instrumental in attracting, retaining, and engaging a high-caliber workforce dedicated to educational excellence. The Chief People Officer ensures compliance with labor laws and promotes employee well-being, creating an environment where staff can thrive. By developing robust HR policies and programs, Courtney Samuels supports the professional growth of employees and aligns people strategies with the organization's mission. This leadership role is fundamental to building a strong, motivated team that drives student success and upholds the values of National Heritage Academies.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Education

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Heritage Academies Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads National Heritage Academies?
    National Heritage Academies is led by Jason Pater (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Robert Owen (Chief Financial Officer) and Renee Shepherd (Board President).
    Who is part of National Heritage Academies’s executive team?
    The executive team of National Heritage Academies includes leaders such as Jason Pater (Chief Executive Officer), Robert Owen (Chief Financial Officer), Renee Shepherd (Board President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does National Heritage Academies have?
    National Heritage Academies has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in National Heritage Academies’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of National Heritage Academies includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Board President, Board President, President of the Board of Directors.