Given to those who have consistently shown generous support of independent schools and their business officers.
A person who has consistently shown generous support of independent schools and their business officers, through his/her role as an association executive, a corporate partner, a consultant, or a senior administrator (other than a business officer) at an independent school.
Nominations are currently closed.
The award will be presented at the Lunch during NBOA’s Annual Symposium in February.
This award is named for Sarah P. Daignault, who served as the Executive Director of NBOA for the first 12 years of its existence. The award recognizes Sarah’s instrumental role in developing strong relationships in the independent school industry in support of the efforts of the business officer. It honors her vision and dedication, which transformed NBOA from a small group of like-minded business officers into a thriving organization supported by hundreds of members across the country and around the world.
Those who know Sarah are convinced she runs on some sort of high-octane fuel developed by NASA. Her unflagging energy, 1000-watt personality, and genuine enthusiasm are contagious. She is unsinkable, and she wants everyone around her to thrive, too.
She has done wonders for the financial and operational health of independent schools. Her dedication to business officers has resulted in hundreds of connections and consultations that have improved the sustainability of these schools. It is for this reason that she has been in demand as a speaker, an author, a confidante, and a consultant—from Texas to Dubai and everywhere in between.
Sarah has always rebelled against the notion that the business officer is "just a bean counter." She has elevated the profession to an unprecedented level, and has helped many of her colleagues become strategic partners at their schools. She has created a community that is valuable, inclusive, and entirely relevant. She has taught us all to be the best that we can be.
Sarah, we salute you, and honor your extraordinary legacy with this award.