Stride Executive and Leadership Team

Robert Knowling Jr., the Chief Executive Officer at Stride, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Overseeing the expansion of online and blended K12 schooling programs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment between public school partnerships and corporate growth objectives. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments while scaling career learning initiatives across North American markets. By prioritizing the delivery of high-quality curriculum and technology platforms, Robert Knowling Jr. drives the company toward long-term sustainability. The Chief Executive Officer maintains constant communication with the Board to refine operational goals and improve educational outcomes for diverse student populations. Through rigorous oversight of business development, the Chief Executive Officer secures the market position of the firm as a leader in digital education, ultimately fostering an environment where innovation meets accessibility for learners nationwide.

Donna Blackman, the Chief Financial Officer at Stride, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the organization. Overseeing financial planning, reporting, and investor relations, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the company maintains a strong balance sheet while investing in new skills-based training programs. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends to optimize revenue streams from public school partnerships and private education services. By maintaining rigorous internal controls, Donna Blackman supports the long-term financial stability of the firm. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with the executive team to evaluate the profitability of various career learning initiatives and adult education offerings. Through precise budget management and strategic forecasting, Blackman enables the company to pursue growth opportunities in competitive education markets. The Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary financial oversight to ensure that all operational investments align with the core mission of expanding educational access.

Levon Hooks, the Chief Information Officer at Stride, architects the digital infrastructure supporting all online learning platforms. Managing the technical requirements for full-time virtual schools, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless connectivity and data security for students and educators. This role involves integrating advanced curriculum software with existing district systems to optimize the user experience. By implementing scalable cloud solutions, Levon Hooks supports the rapid growth of career learning programs in IT and healthcare sectors. The Chief Information Officer collaborates with internal engineering teams to maintain robust cybersecurity protocols, protecting sensitive information across the entire enterprise. Through the deployment of cutting-edge educational technology, the Chief Information Officer enhances the efficiency of digital delivery models. Hooks drives the digital transformation agenda, ensuring that the technological foundation remains resilient and capable of meeting the evolving demands of modern education.

Valerie Maddy, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Stride, directs the talent acquisition and organizational development strategies. Overseeing the recruitment of educators and technical staff, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer ensures the company attracts top-tier professionals dedicated to the mission of online learning. This role involves fostering a culture of inclusion and continuous professional growth across the entire workforce. By implementing comprehensive training programs, Valerie Maddy supports the development of internal talent capable of delivering high-quality instruction in IT, healthcare, and business fields. The Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer collaborates with leadership to align human capital strategies with the broader business objectives of the organization. Through effective performance management and employee engagement initiatives, Maddy drives organizational excellence. The Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer maintains a focus on building a resilient, high-performing team capable of navigating the complexities of the education sector.