SPIRE Academy has announced the promotion of Trish Johnson to Director of Academy, effective July 2025. Johnson previously served as Director of Admissions, where she played a key role in enrollment growth, strategic outreach and cross-departmental engagement.

In this expanded role, Johnson will lead SPIRE’s academic vision and oversee collaboration between academic affairs, student life and athletics, ensuring alignment around the Academy’s core mission and long-term institutional goals.

“SPIRE has an opportunity to become a nationally recognized, world-class academic institution,” said Johnson. “Our momentum is strong and my focus is to unify teams across campus to help build a culture where everyone understands their role in advancing the Academy.”

With a background that spans more than 20 years in coaching, sales, and higher education, Johnson brings a diverse perspective to the role. Her experience in enrollment management, combined with her time in athletics and team leadership, shapes a student-centered approach focused on growth, development, and long-term success.

“Promoting Trish to Director of the Academy is a natural next step,” said Steve Sanders, CEO of SPIRE Academy. “Her leadership has strengthened our student experience and broadened our reach. In this role, she will continue driving the Academy forward with vision, operational excellence and a deep commitment to student success.”

Johnson said the most rewarding part of her work remains supporting student athletes as they pursue their goals.

“Their commitment to what’s next is inspiring,” she said. “To help guide that journey and to know you played a part in it, is what makes this work meaningful.”