Our Board
Chesterton Academy of Mandan is run by a Board of dedicated parents, educators, and community leaders. Each of our Board members is a practicing Catholic in the Diocese of Bismarck and takes an Oath of Fidelity to the Magisterium.
The Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring that the mission, vision, and values on which the school was founded are realized in all areas of school life. The Board is responsible for hiring a suitably qualified Headmaster and empowering him or her to direct the operation of the school in accordance with these founding principles. It also oversees corporate governance and finances, and provides leadership for major projects that support the school vision.
Eliza Frank
Born to native North Dakotans, Eliza had a military upbringing. She lived in many places domestically and abroad until settling in Bismarck as an adult. Eliza has a Master of Occupational Therapy degree from the University of North Dakota, with additional certifications in pediatrics. Currently, Eliza is an Atrium Guide, teaching at a Catholic Montessori School, and homeschooling her children in the classical style.
Eliza and her husband, Robert, have four children.
Chairman
Kevin Walker
Kevin Walker, Ph.D, is originally from San Diego, CA, and has lived in Bismarck for three years. Kevin received his Ph.D. in Political Science from Claremont Graduate University. He is an Associate Professor of Politics at the University of Mary.
Kevin and his wife, Rachelle, have four children.
Secretary
Erica Hager grew up in Santa Rosa, CA, and graduated from the University of Mary with a bachelor’s degree in Business Communications and Master’s degree in Management. She is the founder and owner of Bison Booties, and was the sewing guide at School of the Holy Family.
Erica and her husband, Corey, have five children.
Vice ChairErica Hager
Grace Liffrig is a Lincoln, NE, native and recently moved to Bismarck. She is a graduate of Hillsdale College with a degree in Philosophy and Theology. Grace works for Arcadia Education, as a consultant for classical schools.
Grace and her husband, Peter, have one daughter, and a baby due this summer.
Grace Liffrig
Jan is a lifelong resident of North Dakota, mainly residing in rural Mandan. He has nearly 50 years of experience in the construction business as owner and manager. He previously taught workshop class at Saint Joseph Catholic School.
Jan and his wife, Mary, have one daughter and son-in-law, and are expecting their first grandchild this summer.
Jan Frohlich
School Leadership
Thomas Hoopes is the husband of Rebecca; they have three children. He earned a B.A. in both English and Secondary Education and a Master of Arts in School Leadership from Benedictine College in Atchison, KS. Mr. Hoopes seeks to work with students to strengthen their intellect and will with joy in a community of prayer and study.
Headmaster