Program Overview
The Goodman Nonprofit Fellowship Program focuses on leadership development and peer relationships for current nonprofit executive directors in the Greater Madison area who:
- Lead 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations in Dane, Columbia, Green, Iowa and Sauk counties
- Have organizations with more than one paid employee
- Are committed to growing their skills and helping create a supportive community with other leaders
The Goodman Fellowship program is designed to help participants:
- Develop their leadership skills and capacity for running their organization
- Create a supportive community with other leaders
- Become more strategic in their operation
- Develop a stronger relationship with their organization’s board
- Build a productive organizational culture and develop staff
- Strengthen skills such as financial management, communications and advocacy
The fellowship is a nine-month modular program designed to give participants an opportunity to gain practical knowledge and explore a range of topics related to running a successful nonprofit. Modules are led by experts in each areas and enhanced by group discussion. Each cohort is limited in size – typically 15-20 people – to allow participants more opportunity to participate in sessions and to build relationships with each other.
Deborah Kaddu-Serwadda
Women in Education Leadership Foundation
2025-2026 Fellow
The fellowship came at exactly the right moment in my life and leadership journey. This program is a powerful confidence builder, affirming my vision while strengthening my leadership capacity. The topics are highly relevant to my role, and the learning translates immediately into practice. It has helped me feel less alone and more grounded as a nonprofit founder. Beyond individual growth, the fellowship fills a critical gap in our nonprofit ecosystem by intentionally investing in leaders.
