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Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership Development
Viterbo University & Pablo Foundation
This certificate program will prepare participants with the nonprofit skills needed to drive leadership and organizational readiness through eight workshops. The classes are in-person with the design of the curriculum specific to the needs of nonprofit staff, leaders, and board members. One-on-one coaching/mentoring is also available and may be virtual as determined by the participants. Coaching and mentoring are not required, but participants must attend all eight sessions to receive the Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership Development from Viterbo.
Enroll in the Certificate Program
The certificate program is anticipated to start in the fall of 2025 and conclude in the spring of 2026. Enrollment will begin in spring 2025. The curriculum will consist of the following eight sessions:
Session 1 ● Servant Leadership in Action: Empowering Nonprofits Through Purpose-Driven Leadership and Self-Awareness
Thursday, September 4, 2025
Nonprofits organizations and servant leadership are deeply connected because both focus on service, mission-driven impact, and empowering others. Servant leaders put others first, creating an environment of trust, respect, and shared success. In this dynamic session, participants will explore the core principles of servant leadership through engaging hands-on exercises, real-world case studies, and interactive discussions. Learn how to apply servant leadership to enhance team dynamics, build stronger relationships, and drive meaningful organizational change.
Great leadership starts with self-awareness. Participants will complete the Predictive Index® (PI) assessment, a scientifically validated tool used by thousands of organizations worldwide. This session will provide insights into individual leadership styles, strengths, and areas for growth. Through personalized 1:1 coaching and tailored reports, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of their leadership style and how to better engage and inspire their teams.
Session 2 ● Navigating Legal Issues: Building a Strong Foundation for Integrity and Compliance
Thursday, October 2, 2025 (8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
Nonprofit leaders must navigate complex legal requirements, ethical dilemmas, and value-driven decision-making. This session provides a comprehensive overview of nonprofit governance, tax compliance, employment law, and risk management. Using the Four-Way Method for Ethical Decision-Making, participants will engage in scenario-based discussions to develop strategies for aligning their organization’s mission with legal and ethical responsibilities.
Session 3 ● Building Strong Boards: Governance Strategies for Nonprofit Success
Thursday, November 6, 2025 (8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
A well-structured and engaged board is essential to nonprofit sustainability. This session equips participants with the knowledge and best practices to strengthen governance structures, enhance board engagement, and improve decision-making. Participants will learn strategies for recruiting diverse board members, fostering effective leadership dynamics, and ensuring accountability while championing their organization’s mission.
Session 4 ● Fostering Inclusion: Strategies for Building Equitable and Diverse Nonprofits
Thursday, December 4, 2025 (8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
Building an inclusive nonprofit requires intentional strategies that foster belonging and equity. This session offers actionable steps to embed inclusion into organizational culture, policies, and programs. Through interactive discussions and real-world applications, participants will learn how to remove barriers, promote equitable access, and cultivate an environment where all individuals feel valued and empowered.
Session 5 ● Financial Literacy for Nonprofit Leaders
Thursday, January 8, 2026 (8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
Understanding financial fundamentals is crucial for every nonprofit leader, whether you're an executive, program manager, or board member. This session is designed to equip nonprofit professionals with the essential financial knowledge and tools to make informed decisions, enhance financial stewardship, and strengthen the long-term sustainability of their organizations.
Session 6 ● Human Resources Strategies for Nonprofits
Thursday, February 5, 2025 (8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
People are the heart of any nonprofit, and effective human resource management is key to achieving mission success. This session explores best practices in recruitment, employee engagement, performance management, and compliance with labor laws. Participants will leave with strategies to foster an inclusive, supportive, and mission-driven workplace culture.
Session 7 ● From Ideas to Impact: Strategic Planning and Program Celebration
Thursday, March 5, 2025 (8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.)
Bringing great ideas to life requires a structured and strategic approach. In this final session, participants will apply Compression Planning®—a strategic storyboarding method inspired by Disney’s innovation process—to develop actionable project plans. By leveraging their leadership skills, participants will leave with a clear roadmap for implementing positive change within their organizations. The session concludes with a celebration of achievements and networking opportunities.