At Summit Perch Consulting, we elevate governance and leadership through clear, research-driven insight. Our work helps boards, executives, and nonprofit leaders strengthen decision-making, alignment, and organizational effectiveness. Grounded in qualitative and ethnographic research, we bring depth, perspective, and clarity to how people lead and collaborate.

We specialize in governance evaluations, leadership and board development, and learning programs that help organizations see farther and lead forward. Our expertise spans corporate and nonprofit sectors as well as educational leadership, supporting both current and emerging leaders in navigating complexity with confidence and integrity.

The name Summit Perch reflects our belief that meaningful perspective is earned through effort and elevation. Like a bird perched at the mountain’s summit, we help clients rise above immediate challenges to see the broader landscape—connecting insight to action.

Heather Buffington-Anderson, Ph.D., Founder & Principal

Heather is an ethnographer and qualitative researcher with extensive experience advising boards, executives, and nonprofit leaders. Her work bridges governance and human dynamics, helping organizations strengthen alignment, culture, and decision-making. Before founding Summit Perch Consulting, she helped develop governance and executive education programs and has conducted board and leadership assessments across sectors. Heather brings a calm, discerning approach rooted in inquiry, empathy, and strategic foresight—qualities that define both her practice and the ethos of Summit Perch.