To be a self aware, reflective, ethical leader with a strong sense of professionalism, commitment and passion for the nonprofit sector.

This is the credo of the comprehensive Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership and Management (CNLM) co-sponsored by the Texas Association of Nonprofit Organizations (TANO) and the Center for Community-Based & Nonprofit Organizations at Austin Community College (CCBNO) which is now accepting applications for its sixth class, the Class of 2013 (August 2012 through June 2013).

The Application and program information can be accessed and downloaded at http://www.tano.org/cnlm /

With 37 current class of 2012 members, and 132 alumni from its prior four Classes (list accessible at http://www.tano.org/graduates/), word has spread about the pragmatic value and camaraderie of CNLM.  The program has had a transformative impact on the vast majority of participants, as it is designed to do.  It is a comprehensive course of study entailing 20 full day sessions, over a 10 month period – from August 2012 to May 2013 with graduation in June – during which passionate expert practitioners offer participants opportunities to acquire the competencies – knowledge, skills, and relationships – necessary to lead and manage small and mid-size nonprofit corporations.

The Certificate Experience is designed for individuals already engaged in or aspiring to be volunteer and/ or professional leaders and managers within the Nonprofit Sector of Texas, or elsewhere.  It links practice and knowledge and is as flexible and creative as possible while offering participants a disciplined view of self, of the organizations in which they operate, and the overall environment of the Texas Nonprofit Sector. Meta, macro and micro approaches and perspectives, and the competencies required for success are emphasized. Participants strengthen their ability to identify opportunities and challenges; develop strategies and plans; implement the strategies and plans; oversee their implementation; and evaluate the effectiveness of what has or has not been achieved for the purpose of improving practice as well as achieving the desired outcomes.

It is a serious course of study requiring the commitment and investment of its participants.

Many nonprofit practitioners and volunteer leaders come to their work through passion more than by way of an education that has taught them how to lead and manage effectively in order to manifest that passion. The sharing and transferring of competencies (i.e., knowledge, skills and experience) which form the backbone of “the Certificate Experience” will lead to and support changes in attitude, perception and behavior. This comprehensive professional development will build personal effectiveness and strengthen the organizations served by our graduates.

The sixth class will be comprised of no more than 36 diverse individuals.  The application process is now open and  EARLY APPLICATION IS ENCOURAGED. Acceptance is on a rotating basis such that once the class is filled with qualified participants, registration will be closed.  Accepted applicants are asked to submit a tuition deposit to hold their seats.

PLEASE REVIEW THE ONLINE INFORMATION.  If you have questions not answered there, feel free to contact Barry Silverberg (bsilverb@austincc.edu or barry@tano.org) for further information.