Goddard Systems, Inc. (GSI), the franchisor of The Goddard School, announced Chief Executive Officer Dennis R. Maple has been appointed to the additional position of Chairman of the Board. Maple has been a member of the GSI Board and CEO since 2019.
“During a time of unprecedented change in the early childhood education industry, Dennis has demonstrated a steadfast ability to lead the Goddard System forward,” said Robert Strouse, President of Goddard’s parent, Wind River Holdings. “Combining the roles of Chairman and CEO will further enable Dennis to drive the efficient execution of our long-term strategic imperatives. Dennis’ leadership style, his vision and passion for early childhood education, and his focus on culture and process excellence uniquely positions him to serve as GSI’s new Chairman.”
Maple’s 39-year career includes executive leadership and general management experiences with well-known companies such as First Student, Aramark Education, The Quaker Oats Company, PepsiCo, Inc., Kraft General Foods, Inc., and Coors Brewing Company.
In January of this year, Maple was elected to the International Franchise Association’s Board of Directors. Maple is also on the Descartes Systems Group board of directors, where he serves as a member of the Compensation Committee and as chairman of the Nominating Committee.