Inside the Name
ACELA (uh-SELL-uh) stands for Advocates for Catholic Education, Leadership, and Advancement. While our name is new, ACELA is built on decades of trusted service and enduring relationships with Catholic schools, dioceses, and ministries. Like the high-speed train that shares our name, we are built strong and resilient—moving with clarity, purpose, and momentum to advance the Church’s mission. Launched from legacy, built for leadership, and propelled by renewed purpose and vison, ACELA secures leaders, strengthens teams, and delivers strategic solutions—keeping Catholic institutions on track while accelerating excellence in leadership, culture, and mission.
Our Logo
Rooted in Faith | Guided by Catholic Social Teaching
The ACELA Solutions logo is a visual reflection of our mission—anchored in Christ, guided by the Gospel, and inspired by the core principles of Catholic teachings. Each design element speaks to the way we lead, serve, and accompany others in advancing the mission of Catholic education and ministry.
The Cross | Foundation in Christ and the Church
In the upper left, the cross signifies our faith in Jesus Christ and our fidelity to the teachings of the Catholic Church. It grounds us in the dignity of the human person, the first principle of Catholic social Teachings, and calls us to lead with integrity, humility, and compassion.
The Flame | Ignited by the Holy Spirit
The flame in the upper right represents the Holy Spirit—the source of inspiration, courage, and renewal. Just as the Spirit animated the early Church, so too does it guide our mission today—calling us to be advocates for the common good, solidarity, and the preferential option for the poor.
The Compass and Dove | Direction with Peace and Purpose
At the base, the compass points us forward with clarity, vision, and alignment to God’s will. Emerging from its center is the soft form of a dove, evoking the Holy Spirit’s peaceful guidance. Together, they symbolize our commitment to subsidiarity—supporting institutions at every level—and to the pursuit of justice and peace.
The Shield | Strength, Stewardship, and Trust
The shield surrounds and unifies all elements, symbolizing protection, purpose, and faithful stewardship. It reflects our responsibility to lead with integrity, care for creation, and walk in solidarity with those we serve. Gold signifies tradition and mission; navy conveys trust and wisdom. Altogether, the shield stands as a defender of the mission we are called to serve.
The ACELA Framework
Our services are built around the ACELA Framework—five interconnected branches of support that help Catholic schools, dioceses, and ministries grow with clarity, purpose, and mission alignment. Each service area is designed to meet institutions where they are and move them forward with strength and direction.
The ACELA Framework is more than an acronym—it’s a symbol of holistic, mission-driven support. Each letter represents a core service that nourishes leadership, culture, and strategic capacity. Together, these offerings form the trunk of the tree—anchored in Gospel values and the Catholic teachings, bearing fruit across people, planning, and possibility.
Assessments & Alignment
We deliver data-informed assessments and strategic insight to clarify priorities, align leadership teams, and guide effective institutional planning.
Coaching & Culture
Through leadership coaching and team development, we cultivate purpose-filled leadership, enhance collaboration, and foster healthy, mission-driven organizational cultures.
Retained Search & Talent Acquistion
We identify, engage, and secure mission-driven leaders who align with your charism, culture, and vision—ensuring a faithful, fruitful fit.
Leadership Development & Formation
We accompany Catholic leaders through mentoring, formation, and professional growth—building capacity, deepening impact, and sustaining faithful leadership.
Advisory & Strategic Solutions
We partner with schools, dioceses, and ministries to address governance and operational challenges with mission-aligned insight and strategic counsel.