The principle purpose of the SCS Advancement Committee is to promote and advance the mission of Saunders Catholic Schools in the education and formation of our students, ensuring alignment with the principles of Catholic education as outlined by the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln. The committee serves as a shared decision-making body for matters related to the schools, with particular emphasis on the adoption and implementation of the SCS Strategic Plan. In addition, the committee plays an active role in securing financial support to further the mission of the schools.

Saunders Catholic Schools launched its first-ever strategic plan in 2014–2015, and the Advancement Committee continues to guide, plan, and sustain this ongoing strategic process.

In October 2025, we launched our third SCS Strategic Plan, which will run through December 2028. One of the key changes from the previous two plans is the establishment of a stand-alone Bishop Neumann Finance Committee.

This change was made due to the financial focus of the last two strategic plans centered primarily on parish assessments and the Bishop Neumann budget. The grade schools had limited involvement in those financial decisions, aside from tuition adjustments or related changes. These topics continue to be discussed at tri-school meetings and are then presented to the Advancement Committee and pastors for review and approval.

Since parish assessments, funded through parish tithing, represent a significant portion of the schools’ revenue, the Advancement Committee serves as an important forum for pastors and administrators to share input, express support, and raise concerns about initiatives. In addition, the committee reviews and approves SCS Strategic Plan initiatives across all schools.

The continued support of our parishes, both financially and through their shared commitment to our mission, remains essential to the success of Saunders Catholic Schools.

 

SCS Advancement Committee Members