Development Directions
ISPD’s team writes a monthly newsletter on advancement, enrollment management, and strategic planning in Catholic schools and parishes.
Institute for School and Parish Development (ISPD) Expands National Footprint by Welcoming Dan Ferris as Full-Time Associate to Lead Regional Growth with New Northeast Office
NEW ORLEANS – The Institute for School and Parish Development (ISPD), a national leader in Catholic school and parish development, consulting, coaching, and strategic planning, is pleased to announce the addition of Dan Ferris as a full-time associate. Dan Ferris Brings Decades of Catholic School Leadership Ferris brings 20+ years of experience in Catholic school leadership and Catholic education consulting. He served as the Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island (2011–2022), followed by his role as Director of Accreditation for School Improvement with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges’ Commission on Independent Schools (2022–2024)....
Beyond the Balance Sheet: Creating Annual Reports That Tell Your Mission Story
As another fiscal year closes and another begins, business offices are busy with familiar tasks: closing books, preparing statements, and drafting the annual financial report for the parish and/or school. But what if this year-end requirement could become something transformative? Every year, parishes dutifully publish their financial statements, and every year, the same misconceptions persist about how the business of the Catholic Church – and Catholic education -- works.
Is Your Catholic School/Parish Ready for a Capital Campaign?
Discover what it truly takes to launch a capital campaign at your Catholic school or parish. Learn key steps, avoid common mistakes, and explore a proven process that leads to success.
The Cadence of Catholic School Development: Connecting the Dots
The Cadence of Catholic School Development will provide a roadmap for those who need a clear direction on how development/advancement should unfold while also providing a guide for those Catholic schools who may have taken some detours.
Holding Steady: Faith, Leadership, and Forward Momentum in Uncertain Times
Over the past week, we have witnessed a sharp and sudden drop in the Dow Industrials, triggered by new tariffs imposed on several foreign countries. This downturn, and other global issues, have understandably sparked concern among many Americans and are fueling fears of a possible recession. Our nation—and indeed, our world—continues to navigate volatile economic and political waters. As a national Catholic development consulting firm moving into our 36th year of business, we want to speak directly to our Catholic school, parish, and (arch)diocesan leaders, particularly those currently engaged in one of our capital campaigns, annual funds, or other strategic...
The Interconnected Role of the Catholic Parish, Church, and School
March 2025 Newsletter The Interconnected Role of the Catholic Parish, Church, and School: Understanding the Unity of the Parish In ISPD’s work throughout the country, we run across a number of misconceptions and questions when it comes to understanding the role of a Catholic parish, the role of a Catholic church, and the role of a Catholic school. We hear questions like these: What do you mean when you say the school is a ministry of the parish? Aren’t the parish and the church the same thing? Why doesn’t the parish give the school more money? Why is the school...
ISPD Expands with New Regional Offices, Welcomes Two Associates
The Institute for School and Parish Development (ISPD), a national Catholic development, consulting, coaching, and educational firm headquartered in the Greater New Orleans area, is pleased to announce the opening of two new regional offices in Ohio and North Carolina, further expanding its national reach.
A Pause for Prayer, A Cause for Mourning
Here in the Greater New Orleans Area, where our company is located, all of us at ISPD extend our sympathies and condolences to those who were killed and/or injured in the early New Year’s Day tragedy on Bourbon Street. We are heartbroken and grieve for those families having to endure the reality of this senseless act. New Orleans is a city built on resilience. Through the years, we have faced adversity and risen stronger. As a friend of mine said this morning, “We stand together, not just in mourning, but in our resolve to heal and grow from adversity.” Mardi Gras will go on; the Super Bowl will be held, the spring festivals will take place, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival will be staged; and our company’s annual three-day conference (ISPD Summer 2025 Development School) in June will welcome Catholic leaders from throughout the country. We will rise and come back better than ever. As we said in our December Christmas story: “It is better to light a candle than curse the darkness.” Candles of remembrance, respect, reverence, and hope are lit in the City of New Orleans.
A Christmas Story
December 23, 2025
6 min
"I was overwhelmed with joy until I turned the corner and saw him crying." A true Christmas story about the day Santa Claus let someone down—and what one boy did about it.
Operational Vitality as Ministry: Reframing Development, Advancement, Enrollment, and Sustainability in Catholic Education
December 15, 2025
3 min
Operational Vitality in Catholic education is a ministry, not just an administrative function. Development, advancement, enrollment management, and sustainability are essential to the mission of Catholic schools because they support evangelization, stewardship, and long-term vitality. This article reframes operational leadership as sacred, relational work that sustains Catholic schools for future generations.
Inviting Year-End Gifts
November 20, 2025
4 min
As we approach the season of gratitude and giving, our Catholic schools and parishes often reflect on the many blessings received throughout the year—and the role each member of our community plays in advancing the mission. Year-end giving is more than a tradition; it is a vital opportunity to invite everyone to invest in the values and vision we hold dear.
It’s Go Time for Giving Tuesday & iGiveCatholic
October 14, 2025
6 min
GivingTuesday 2025 is coming fast — and for Catholic schools and parishes, this global day of generosity...
The Real Value of Hosting Your Catholic School Open House
September 16, 2025
4 min
In our 36 years of helping Catholic schools and parishes flourish, one truth stands out: there is no single event that can activate your community and communicate your mission as powerfully as a well-executed Open House. Too often, however, schools view Open House as a one-off recruitment night. The real value is far broader—it is an opportunity to foster belonging, deepen engagement, and lay down the roadways that invite new families, students, and supporters into your mission.
Institute for School and Parish Development (ISPD) Expands National Footprint by Welcoming Dan Ferris as Full-Time Associate to Lead Regional Growth with New Northeast Office
August 20, 2025
2 min
NEW ORLEANS – The Institute for School and Parish Development (ISPD), a national leader in Catholic school...
