"Be Strong and Courageous" - 2023 National Association of Episcopal Schools Conference Report

Written by Mary Katherine Duffy, Bishop's Deputy for Episcopal Schools - Diocese of West Texas

The National Association of Episcopal Schools held its Biennial conference November 9-11 at the Marriott Riverwalk in San Antonio, and it was a blessed event.

“Be Strong and Courageous” was the perfect theme for the gathering. It was the first in-person event the association has held since 2018, and it was indeed a joyous occasion! The local planning committee led by the Rev. Scott Brown, Headmaster at TMI Episcopal, and Rob Devlin, Executive Director of SAES (Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools), also included many leaders in the diocesan community including:

The Rev. Dr. Ben Nelson, Chaplain at TMI Episcopal

Dr. Jasmine Harris, Head of School for Academics and Programs at TMI Episcopal

Mary Katherine Duffy, Bishop’s Deputy for Episcopal Schools

Tiffany Jureczki, Head of School at St. Helena’s Episcopal School, Boerne

Ashley Miles, former Head of School at St. David’s Episcopal School, San Antonio

Sarah Kates, Chaplain at St. Luke's Episcopal School, San Antonio

Dr. Chelsea Collins, Head of School at St. Luke's Episcopal School, San Antonio

The Rev. Ram Lopez, Rector, St. George Episcopal Church, San Antonio

Jon Meacham kicked off the conference with a fantastic keynote address. Afterwards, participants were able to choose from a variety of breakout sessions that educated school leaders, faculty and staff, clergy and board members. The opening Eucharist featured the Rt. Rev. David Reed, Bishop of West Texas, as the celebrant with eucharistic ministers and acolytes from St. George Episcopal School, St. Luke’s Episcopal School, and TMI Episcopal. Another great moment was Rob Devlin (former Head of School at St. George) receiving the John Verdery Award celebrating the outstanding service of individuals to Episcopal schools and NAES.

Dr. Chelsea Collins shared, “From the opening session—in which Jon Meacham encouraged us to be curious, candid, and empathetic—the vast array of workshops presented learning as a precious gift shared to foster growth in ourselves and others. Facilitated conversation topics on servant leadership, Episcopal identity, and equity and inclusion within our schools sparked follow-up conversations and opportunities to reconnect.”

It was a fantastic event and was enjoyed by all who attended.

-Mary Katherine Duffy
Bishop's Deputy for Episcopal Schools

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