BARB ROSSTON 

Strategic Governance Consultant

Barbara Rosston is a strategic governance consultant with a deep commitment to strengthening independent schools and nonprofit organizations. She partners with schools across the country to guide strategic planning and mission review processes, support heads of school and boards of trustees, and facilitate engaging and productive board retreats. With a strong understanding of the education sector, Barb helps boards and leadership teams navigate the complexities of governance with clarity and confidence.

Her areas of expertise include effective board practices, building strong board-head relationships, goal setting and assessment, cultivating a positive and mission-aligned board culture, and bylaw review. Previously, Barb served as a consultant to the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) where she helped develop resources for board education and trustee development.

Barb brings a unique professional background to her work—she began her career as a linguist for the U.S. government before becoming an environmental and land use attorney. She has served on the boards of many independent schools and nonprofits, as board chair, finance chair and COT chair. Barb is a graduate of Vassar College and the University of San Francisco School of Law.