Cheshire’s CFO Wins International Unsung Hero Award

Cheshire Academy Chief Financial Officer Matthew Piechota won the National Business Officers Association (NBOA) Will Hancock Unsung Hero Award, recognizing chief business officers who have made extraordinary contributions to their schools. Piechota was one of just nine 2024 recipients internationally. 

“Matt’s impact at Cheshire Academy goes beyond numbers and systems,” said Head of School Julie Anderson. “He has become a driving force for progress, securing the school’s financial footing while fostering a vibrant and growing student body. His collaborative spirit and leadership have earned him the respect of his peers and positioned Cheshire Academy for a bright future.” 

The Will Hancock Unsung Hero Award is named for one of the 23 founders of NBOA, who served as the association’s deputy executive director. Hancock is widely recognized as a pioneer and innovator within the independent school business officer profession. 

Piechota has been Cheshire Academy’s CFO for six years. He spearheaded a comprehensive modernization of the business office, implementing new systems for payroll and securing crucial funding for athletics and arts spaces. He designed and executed a tuition reset strategy, attracting a surge of day students and the largest 9th-grade class in over two decades. 

“It is an honor to receive this award, and I am grateful to be part of such a special community,” Piechota said. “Our team at Cheshire Academy works hard to make the experience unforgettable for all our students and families.” 

In addition to his financial responsibilities, Piechota fosters the CA student experience, Anderson said. “He’s a familiar face at concerts, games, and across campus, quietly supporting every facet of Cheshire Academy,” she said. “He’s not there for applause, but for the students, faculty, and the institution he cares deeply about.” 

NBOA is the only national nonprofit membership association focused exclusively on supporting independent school business officers and business operations staff while fostering financial and operational excellence among independent PK-12 schools. The association has grown from 23 founding member schools in 1998 to more than 1,600 members, including schools, business partners and associations from the U.S. and 25 other countries around the globe.