Participant Expectations
We expect Fellows to commit an average of 12 hours a month (for a total of 120 hours) to the fellowship program. Participants must be willing to actively contribute to building a positive learning community for themselves and fellow cohort members by committing to the following:
- Being present and prepared for all scheduled sessions, which will run from September through June
- Approaching the experience with curiosity, openness, respect and generosity for each other’s expertise, wisdom, lived experience and humanity
- Making space and taking space by being mindful of how much one speaks and the role power and privilege play in our interactions
- Being open to growth and discomfort and allowing each other to make mistakes without judgement or defensiveness
- Honoring confidentiality by ensuring what is said stays with the group but what’s learned leaves
Participants should carefully weigh the time commitment and other expectations before applying. A successful cohort will provide a rich experience and long-term community for participants, but requires everyone’s commitment to doing the work.
Schedule
Each month’s topic is split between two, half-day sessions: Wednesday afternoons and Thursday mornings. Sessions will be held at various locations in and around Madison.
September 17 & 18, 2025
Program Orientation and Being a Leader
Orientation will focus on what to expect and to begin building relationships.
October 29 & 30, 2025
Crafting a Powerful Value Proposition for Your Nonprofit and Programs to Match
Learn how to define and communicate a compelling value proposition for your organization.
November 19 & 20, 2025
Governance and Board Management
Examine the roles and responsibilities of boards and their relationship to staff.
December 3 & 4, 2025
Financial Management
We will analyze the principles of financial management for nonprofits.
January 21 & 22, 2026
Marketing and Communications
Develop a framework for a comprehensive marketing and communication plan.
February 18 & 19, 2026
Fundraising and Resourcing the Mission
Examine the fundamental forms of nonprofit revenue and how engage in mission-rooted fundraising.
March 18 & 19, 2026
Human Resources and Organizational Culture
We will examine fundamental aspects of building a thriving organizational culture and effectively managing a team of staff and volunteers.
April 29 & 30, 2026
Advocacy and Collective Impact
Explore the importance of advocacy work for nonprofits and the role public funding plays in the nonprofit sector.
May 27 & 28, 2026
Strategy and Evaluation
Explore effective practices in strategic planning and aligning programs with longer-term strategies.
June 24 & 25, 2026
Reflection and Celebration
Celebrate all your hard work, learning and relationship building!
Read the Full Course Descriptions
Download the full syllabus to see detailed course descriptions for each of the 10 sessions.
