As August begins and the school year kicks off, we’re reminded of the many transitions this season brings—welcoming new staff, adjusting to busier schedules, and embracing fresh opportunities. We’re especially grateful for the chance to support our clients in their work, including many school districts heading into a new school year. As our Partners, Phil Herman and Tom Speaks, often say, “Appreciation doesn’t happen by accident.” It’s through the dedication of our clients that we’re able to fulfill our mission of positively impacting lives. For that, we are deeply grateful. We look forward to the second half of the ...

The Impact Group team has dedicated this month to seeking balance in everything we do, whether it’s delivering exceptional support to our clients, empowering our team, or refining strategies that drive meaningful results. The summer months are a natural time to pause, reflect, and ensure your efforts are aligned with your vision. It’s the perfect season to refresh your perspective, recalibrate your priorities, and set the stage for impactful outcomes. Join us in embracing this season of balance as an opportunity to grow, refocus, and achieve even greater success together. READ OUR LATEST BLOG Summer Refresh: Conducting a ...

As summer unfolds, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how your organization is nurturing its internal culture—one of the core components of our High-Impact Model, alongside strategic planning and communication. The longer days and brighter skies offer a natural opportunity to pause, recharge, and strengthen team connections. At The Impact Group, we recently embraced that spirit during a team cookout, with our Partner Phil Herman stepping up as grillmaster—a great reminder that strong culture starts with shared experiences. If you're looking to make this summer even more impactful, explore our latest blog and webinar recording. We’re sharing fresh ...

April was a busy month at The Impact Group, filled with meaningful engagements and opportunities for connection. Partner Tom Speaks shared Appreciology at the Ohio Parks and Recreation Association's Regional Trainings, spoke the Ohio Association of School Business Officials Annual Conference, and worked with staff members at the College of Coastal Georgia. Tom and Partner Phil Herman also supported Alliance City Schools, facilitating a community meeting focused on youth sports. To wrap up the month, Account Lead Kaitlin Witzberger and Assistant Account Leads Katelyn Vargo and Colette Liepert represented the team at the Ohio School Public Relations Association's Spring Conference. ...

MARCH SPOTLIGHT Above the Fray: Building Unity While Navigating Unprecedented Political and Community Challenges At the beginning of March, members of the Impact Group team attended the AASA National Conference in New Orleans. Partners Tom Speaks and Phil Herman had the opportunity to present on "Above the Fray: Building Unity While Navigating Unprecedented Political and Community Challenges" alongside educational experts. In our presentation, we explored how school leaders can rise above the fray, foster unity, navigate political complexities, and remain steadfast in their mission to serve students. These dynamics are complex, and we’re here to support you ...

We love taking time each month as a team to reflect on one of our core values. Last month, we explored "Embrace Creativity" and discussed just how boundless creativity truly is. It’s not just about art—it’s about finding fresh solutions, thinking outside the box, and approaching challenges in ways that surprise even ourselves. This edition of Making an Impact is packed with updates from recent conferences, expert insights on crisis communication, and actionable ideas to motivate your staff, connect with families, and face the unique challenges of this season. As you read, we encourage you to pause and consider—what ...

High-impact organizations are built through purposeful strategic planning, clear communication, and a strong culture. These critical elements not only deliver results but also foster the trust and stakeholder engagement essential for long-term success. As Simon Sinek reminds us, "A movement starts with a clear vision of a world different than the one we live in today." By defining that vision and taking intentional steps, you can align your team and create meaningful connections that drive your organization forward. What intentional step will you take this month? JOIN US AT THE AASA NATIONAL CONFERENCE Above the Fray: ...

As we welcome 2025, we continue to be inspired by the opportunity to help organizations like yours lay the groundwork for success. We believe that we rise by lifting others, and as a theme that carried us through 2024, we look forward to where it will take us in 2025. This month, we’re focusing on the critical steps of strategic planning and how it can drive success in your organization. From identifying priorities to fostering team collaboration, we’re here to equip you with the expertise and tools you need to create a clear path forward. Thank you for trusting ...

As we are welcomed back into the office after a holiday weekend, we can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all of you. A few weeks ago, members of our leadership team traveled to the Ohio School Boards Association Capital Conference and connected with superintendents, administrative teams and their boards to discuss a range of topics, including current communication challenges and "Appreciology: The Art & Science of Appreciation." With every new year comes new goals and new challenges, and we want to thank you for following along with us every month, reading, sharing and implementing the content ...

As November arrives with its cooler temperatures and golden hues of falling leaves, it offers us a gentle reminder to slow down and embrace gratitude. This time of year naturally invites reflection, allowing us to appreciate the moments that often pass by unnoticed. Whether it's the comforting warmth of a morning ritual or the spirit of a collaborative team, these small yet meaningful moments have the power to shift the way we think about the world and the way we lead our teams. In this edition of Making an Impact, we're excited to introduce our Appreciation Challenge. This initiative ...