The following blog was written by Counseling In Schools’ Chief Financial Officer, Lew Bader, as part of his reflections on ten years with CIS:
As I begin my tenth year as Chief Financial Officer of Counseling In Schools, I reflect on a career that has taken me from corporate leadership to the heart of a mission-driven nonprofit. This journey, marked by growth, learning, and purpose, fills me with deep gratitude—not just for the work I do today, but also for the four decades of experience that shaped me.
I started my career in 1976 as an Accounting Clerk A at Random House, a role that laid the foundation for everything that followed. Over the years, I worked at CBS Educational Publishing, Simon & Schuster, Macmillan, and Pearson, eventually serving as Senior Vice President. In each of these roles, I developed my expertise in financial management, leadership, and strategic thinking, driving efficiencies and building robust financial systems.
When I left Pearson, the road ahead was not easy. Transitioning away from a company I had devoted myself to for many years was challenging, but it also opened up new possibilities. I started a consulting business, which brought some success, but I quickly realized I missed the camaraderie of working with a team. I longed for the satisfaction of achieving short-term goals that contributed to a larger mission. Networking became crucial during this time, and it led me to connect with many talented individuals—one of whom introduced me to an opportunity at Counseling In Schools. Two weeks later, I was hired as their first CFO.
At Counseling In Schools, I shifted my focus from profit margins to purpose and impact. The work here is more than just a job—it’s a calling. Every dollar managed, every efficiency found, supports programs that help young people facing life’s toughest challenges. Success is measured not by financial returns, but by the difference we make in the lives of students and the communities we serve.
In addition to my role at Counseling In Schools, I find great fulfillment in my involvement with The Financial Executives Networking Group, Inc. (The FENG). As Chairman of the Long Island Chapter and co-chair of the Peer Resume Review Committee, I am able to give back to the finance community in ways that are deeply rewarding.
The FENG is a dynamic network of senior finance professionals who come together to share knowledge, offer support, and collaborate on career growth. Through my work with The FENG, I have the opportunity to mentor fellow finance executives, help them navigate transitions, and provide guidance on everything from resume development to interview preparation. The Peer Resume Review Committee, in particular, allows me to work closely with members as they refine their resumes, helping them present their skills and experiences in the most impactful way. It’s an incredibly fulfilling experience to see people grow, find new opportunities, and achieve their professional goals.
As Chairman of the Long Island Chapter, I have been given an opportunity to contribute to the broader finance community while building relationships with other leaders in the field. It’s a privilege to be part of a group that not only focuses on career development but also fosters an environment of collaboration and mutual support.
As I reflect on my journey, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow, to learn, and to make a lasting impact—whether through my work at Counseling In Schools or my involvement with The FENG. Both roles have allowed me to apply my experience in ways that benefit others, whether by directly supporting students and communities or helping finance professionals navigate their own career transitions. Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue contributing to the success of Counseling In Schools and The FENG, knowing that each step I take is part of something larger than myself—a mission to create lasting change and support those on their own paths of growth and fulfillment.
