Celebrating Leadership Through Service: Honoring the 2025 MISBO Award Recipients
Every year, MISBO shines a spotlight on individuals and partners who remind us what true leadership looks like. The Leadership Through Service Award honors those who not only excel in their own work, but who also elevate those around them, generously share their time and expertise, and strengthen independent schools and our MISBO community in the process.
This year, we recognize three individuals whose dedication, integrity, and service have left a lasting mark on our field: Alan Weiler, Lee Arledge, and Dianne Sagaas.
Alan Weiler – Athens Academy
With nearly thirty years in independent schools across Georgia, Florida, and Nevada, Alan Weiler has been a steady hand, a trusted mentor, and a respected voice of reason in our field. He has served MISBO on the board and on EIS committees, consistently showing up ready to do the work on behalf of schools and their communities.
Alan is the kind of leader who would never seek recognition for himself, which makes honoring him all the more meaningful. His colleagues describe him as a steadfast resource who quietly and consistently lifts others up. Independent schools are stronger because of Alan’s leadership, and MISBO is proud to call him one of our own.
Lee Arledge – USI Insurance
Lee Arledge has redefined what it means to be a consortium partner. From delivering the go-to benefits survey to sharing timely and practical insights through webinars, hot topics, and conference sessions, Lee has helped countless schools make more informed decisions and navigate complex challenges with confidence.
Beyond his professional expertise, Lee is deeply committed to building strong relationships and fostering community. His work on the Consortium Council and his efforts to welcome and support new partners reflect the collaborative, forward-thinking spirit that MISBO values so highly. Lee’s contributions have strengthened our network and advanced the work of schools across the region.
Dianne Sagaas – MISBO
Dianne Sagaas has devoted nearly three decades to shaping, guiding, and championing MISBO. Since joining the organization, she has consulted with schools and supported them from the ground up, expanded professional development offerings, taken DER to new heights, and elevated sponsorships and partnerships to unprecedented levels. Her influence has touched nearly every aspect of MISBO’s work and growth.
After 28 years of service, Dianne will retire at the end of 2025. Her legacy is woven into every corner of this community, from the schools she’s supported to the colleagues and partners she’s mentored and inspired. Honoring her with the Leadership Through Service Award is a fitting recognition of a career defined by generosity, vision, and unwavering commitment to independent schools.
Join Us in Nashville
Alan, Lee, and Dianne remind us that leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about service, collaboration, and making space for others to succeed. Their work has shaped the landscape of independent education and strengthened the MISBO community for years to come.
We invite you to celebrate these outstanding honorees with us at the 2025 MISBO Annual Conference, October 22–24 in Nashville, TN. Come for the awards and stay for the inspiration, connections, and community that make MISBO unique.
Register Now for the MISBO Annual Conference