In this episode of The Culture Classroom, we sit down with Jonathan Adams, Athletic Director at Westminster Christian Academy in Huntsville, Alabama. A former collegiate baseball umpire, Jonathan took an uncommon path back to his alma mater — one that shaped his unique perspective on leadership and athletic administration.

He shares why effective leadership begins with modeling the standards you expect and reminds us that culture is defined not by what you say, but by what you allow. Jonathan explains why head coaches in his department are called program directors — leaders responsible for the full development of their sport, from youth to varsity. At the heart of Westminster’s approach is the Earn Everything mentality, a mindset that demands accountability, resilience, and consistency from coaches, athletes, and parents alike.

Jonathan also outlines the Wildcats’ culture, vision, and purpose statement while highlighting the qualities every athletic director should pursue: clarity, accountability, humility, and the discipline to surround yourself with great people.

This is a powerful conversation on leadership, culture, and building athletic programs that last.