ABI Conference '25

Jonathan Eckert, Ed.D., is the Lynda and Robert Copple Chair for Christians in School Leadership and Professor of Educational Leadership at Baylor University. He also serves as the Executive Director of the Baylor Center for School Leadership. He taught intermediate and middle grade students for 12 years. After completing his doctorate at Vanderbilt University, he served at the U.S. Department of Education in both the Bush and Obama administrations on teaching quality issues. He was a professor at Wheaton College for ten years where he prepared pre-service teachers. He has won several teaching awards in higher education, has spoken to thousands of educators on four continents, and is the author of multiple books including Just Teaching, Future Ready, Catalytic Improvement Communities, Leading Together, The Novice Advantage, as well numerous other articles and books. 

With over 26 years of experience in Christian education, Emily Pigott serves as the VP of Educational Resources & Student Programs at ACSI. Passionate about guiding school leaders, educators, and students worldwide, she believes today's generation has the God-given potential to impact culture for Jesus. Emily is committed to equipping educators and student leaders with strategies that resonate with today's youth, inspiring them to own their education, leadership journey, and future for God's glory.

Emily has traveled globally to train and equip others in biblical leadership, character development, and transformative education. She holds a Master of Education from Southeastern University and co-authored The School of Leadership Curriculum. Married to Gene for over 31 years, Emily is a proud mother of two sons, Joshua and Jacob, and continues to inspire Christian educators to make an eternal impact, one student at a time.

Mike has dedicated over 35 years to Christian school education. His journey began in Sao Paulo, Brazil, where he spent 19 years immersed in the vibrant tapestry of bilingual international education. In his current role with ACSI, he leads efforts impacting schools in over 65 countries. His mission is to fortify school leaders worldwide. His fervor stems from a belief in the transformative power of godly leadership on academic excellence and spiritual growth.