Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership Program
October 21, 2026, 8:30 AM – February 11, 2027, 4:00 PM
Foellinger Foundation
520 East Berry Street Fort Wayne, IN 46802 United States (map)
Strong nonprofits need strong leaders. The Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership (CNEL) equips current and emerging nonprofit leaders with practical knowledge and proven strategies to strengthen their organizations and lead with confidence. Through four interactive courses, participants will explore nonprofit management, strategic and operational planning, financial management, and program evaluation—building the skills needed to navigate today's challenges and drive long-term organizational success.
Participants must complete all four, two-day courses to earn the Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership. Each session builds on the previous one, creating a comprehensive learning experience alongside a cohort of nonprofit leaders.
This program is by invitation only. RSVPs are required.
Program Details
Course One
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 – Thursday, October 22, 2026
8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Topic: Nonprofit Management in the 21st Century
Course Two
Wednesday, October 21, 2026 – Thursday, October 22, 2026
8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Topic: Strategic and Operational Planning
Course Three
Wednesday, January 13, 2027 – Thursday, January 14, 2027
8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Topic: Financial Management
Course Four
Wednesday, February 10, 2027 – Thursday, February 11, 2027
8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Topic: Program Evaluation
Doors will open at 8:00 AM for connection time. Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments will be provided each day.
Foellinger Foundation is the location for all four courses.
Who Should Attend?
The Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership is designed for current and emerging nonprofit leaders who are ready to strengthen their leadership skills and organizational impact. This program is ideal for:
• Executive directors and CEOs
• Senior leaders and department directors
• Emerging leaders preparing for executive roles
• Individuals transitioning into nonprofit leadership
• Leaders seeking practical tools to strengthen strategy, operations, finance, and evaluation
About the Program Facilitators
Your CNEL course instructors are faculty members of the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University, with expertise in nonprofit management and practitioner experience in the field. A variety of instructional methods will be used to provide engaging, practice-oriented learning experiences focused on knowledge, tools, and techniques you can implement in your organization.
Have a Question?
Contact Lisa Pickerman, Program Officer at lisa@foellinger.org.
Lisa Pickerman
Program Officer