Executive Coaching Team
The Executive Coaches of The Education Group are recently retired, successful heads of outstanding independent schools who are committed to supporting the next generation of school heads.
Currently a resident of both Florida and New Jersey, Dr. Byer’s professional resume reflects his integration into and relationships with multiple independent schools in both states.
Dennis M. Campbell is an educator, theologian, author, and consultant. Prior to his appointment as dean, he was professor and college and university administrator.
The Rev. Peter Gunn Cheney has extensive training and experience in mediation and conflict resolution. He has been in the fields of education and ministry for 42 years.
During more than 35 years in education, most of it in independent schools, Marifred has served as a teacher, Program Director, Principal, Associate Head, and Head of School.
As a former college dean and professor, a think tank president, and an independent school headmaster, John brings a broad view to the challenges of managing and leading independent schools.
In his forty-two years in independent schools, Dave has served as a Head of School, Interim Head of School, Assistant Head, and Head of Upper School.
With his retirement in 2012, David Dougherty completed 44 years of service in independent schools, and now looks forward to serving the next generation of school leaders as an executive coach.
Kay Dougherty retired in 2012, after completing forty-six years of teaching and service in public and independent (both boarding and day) schools.
Laura joined The Education Group in the summer of 2020 after serving as an educator, administrator, and head of school in independent schools for over 30 years.
The Rev. Daniel R. Heischman, D.D., Executive Director of the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES), began his tenure on July 1, 2007. Previously, he was Head of the Upper School and Assistant Headmaster of St. Albans School, Washington, DC from 1994 through 2003.
Over his 42-year career, Bob has served in a number of roles, most recently as head of school for St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Austin, Texas.
With a background spanning 46 years in education, the last 28 in independent schools, Susan brings a wealth of experience in education and knowledge of independent school management.
Harry V. McKay, Jr. brings forty-plus years’ wealth of educational leadership and professional experience,both in the United States and internationally.
A native Virginian, Margaret received her Master’s degree in Christian Education from Virginia Theological Seminary and has continued to be actively involved in independent schools with over thirty years experience as a parent, volunteer leader, trustee, and school administrator.
Bob Veto has had a career of nearly 45 years in education, most of it in independent schools.
Andrew Wooden has dedicated his career to service within independent schools, leading top schools across the country through critical inflection points and propelling their growth.