Stride Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Stride has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to educational innovation, Stride provides comprehensive K12 schooling programs, career learning, and adult education, preparing learners for indemand fields and shaping the future of education.

Leadership Roles at Stride

  • Chief Executive Officer - James Rhyu
  • Chief Financial Officer - Donna Blackman
  • Chief Information Officer - Levon Hooks
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer - Valerie Maddy
  • James Rhyu - Chief Executive Officer

    James Rhyu, the Chief Executive Officer at Stride, directs the company's overarching strategy and operational execution. Rhyu guides Stride's mission to provide flexible and effective K12 schooling programs, career learning, and adult education solutions. Overseeing all business units, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with market demands and educational innovation. This leadership role involves expanding Stride's reach across public school districts, charter schools, and direct-to-consumer offerings. By fostering strategic partnerships and driving product development, James Rhyu ensures the company's continued growth and impact in the education technology sector. Rhyu's focus remains on delivering high-quality learning experiences that prepare students and adult learners for indemand careers in IT, healthcare, and business.
    James Rhyu

    Donna Blackman - Chief Financial Officer

    Donna Blackman, the Chief Financial Officer at Stride, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting activities. Blackman oversees the company's fiscal health, ensuring robust financial strategies that support Stride's expansion in K12 schooling, career learning, and adult education programs. Managing budgets, investments, and financial risk, the Chief Financial Officer provides critical insights for strategic decision-making. This leadership position involves optimizing financial performance across all business segments, including partnerships with public school districts and charter schools. By maintaining strong financial controls and driving fiscal discipline, Donna Blackman ensures Stride's long-term sustainability and ability to invest in innovative educational solutions. Blackman's expertise is vital for navigating the financial complexities of the education technology market.

    Levon Hooks - Chief Information Officer

    Levon Hooks, the Chief Information Officer at Stride, architects and manages the company's technology infrastructure and digital platforms. Hooks oversees the development and deployment of robust online and blended learning systems that support Stride's K12 schooling programs and career learning initiatives. Ensuring the security, scalability, and reliability of all technological operations, the Chief Information Officer is critical to delivering seamless educational experiences. This role involves driving innovation in educational technology, integrating AI and data analytics to enhance learning outcomes. By leading the IT department, Levon Hooks ensures that Stride's curriculum and technology platforms effectively serve students, adult learners, and partner school districts. Hooks's strategic vision for technology empowers Stride to adapt to evolving educational landscapes and maintain its position as a leader in online education.
    Levon Hooks

    Valerie Maddy - Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

    Valerie Maddy, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Stride, leads all human capital strategies and organizational development initiatives. Maddy oversees talent acquisition, employee engagement, and workforce planning to support Stride's diverse educational programs, from K12 schooling to adult education. Cultivating a high-performance culture and ensuring compliance with labor regulations, the Chief Human Resources Officer is integral to Stride's operational success. This role involves developing comprehensive HR policies and programs that attract, retain, and develop top talent across the organization. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Valerie Maddy ensures that Stride's team is equipped to deliver exceptional learning experiences. Maddy's leadership in human resources strengthens Stride's capacity to innovate and expand its educational offerings.
    Valerie Maddy

    Explore Leadership Teams in Education

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Stride Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Stride?
    Stride is led by James Rhyu (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Donna Blackman (Chief Financial Officer) and Levon Hooks (Chief Information Officer).
    Who is part of Stride’s executive team?
    The executive team of Stride includes leaders such as James Rhyu (Chief Executive Officer), Donna Blackman (Chief Financial Officer), Levon Hooks (Chief Information Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Stride have?
    Stride has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Stride’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Stride includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer.