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). Most recently, he was director and co-creator of the Board Development Institute and the Executive Leadership Academy at the Boston College Roche Center for Catholic Education (2024–2025).
Proven Experience in Catholic Education and Administration
In addition to his leadership at the (arch)diocesan and national levels, Ferris is a respected Catholic school administrator and educator. He also previously served on the ISPD National Board of Advisors, further deepening his connection to the mission of strengthening Catholic schools and parishes.
Areas of Expertise in School Development and Growth
Ferris brings a wealth of expertise in:
- Strategic planning for Catholic schools
- Board leadership and governance formation
- Enrollment management and marketing strategies
- Annual fund development and capital campaign leadership
- Assessing financial and operational vitality in Catholic schools
- Accreditation and continuous school improvement
Expanding ISPD’s National Presence in Catholic Consulting
Based in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, Ferris will expand ISPD’s national footprint with an office in the Northeast and continue to provide consulting and coaching services to Catholic schools, parishes, and (arch)dioceses across the United States. This gives ISPD offices throughout the country, with headquarters in the Greater New Orleans Area; our Southeast office in Charlotte, North Carolina; our Midwest office in Mansfield, OH; and now our northeast office in East Greenwich, Rhode Island.
Strengthening Catholic Schools and Parishes Nationwide
“Dan has been a trusted voice in Catholic education for many years. His leadership experience and passion for helping schools and parishes thrive will be a tremendous asset to ISPD and the clients we serve nationwide,” said Frank Donaldson, ISPD President.
ISPD proudly welcomes Dan Ferris to the ISPD Team, where he will continue advancing the mission of helping Catholic schools, parishes, and (arch)dioceses achieve long-term operational vitality, growth, and success.
Learn More About ISPD’s Catholic School Consulting Services
Schools, parishes, and (arch)dioceses interested in learning more about ISPD’s expanded consulting services can visit ispdconsulting.com.
