8-Week Executive Director Training
OVERVIEW Mighty Foundations is an 8-week series giving new and aspiring Executive Directors practical tools, knowledge, and relationship-building with peers to lead with confidence. The series will cover topics like mission, Board governance, finance, development and communications, organizational culture, and strategic planning.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND? The series is designed for new or first-time Executive Directors, aspiring leaders or senior staff preparing for Executive leadership.
WEEKLY SCHEDULE Sessions meet weekly on Wednesdays via Zoom from 6:30-8:30 pm CST starting September 16th. Sessions are facilitated by Melissa Martinez-Sones and Roger Meyer, with rotating guest presenters.
COST $975 per participant
Session Overviews
SESSION 1 · SEPTEMBER 16
Mission-Focused Organizations
Align board and staff around a shared understanding of the organization’s mission, vision, and values, and ensure decisions and priorities remain focused on the core purpose and avoid mission creep.
SESSION 2 · SEPTEMBER 23
Strong and Effective Boards
Develop a clear understanding of the distinct roles and responsibilities of the board and Executive Director while building a strong, healthy partnership that supports effective governance and organizational success.
SESSION 3 · SEPTEMBER 30
Financial Management and Oversight
Develop a strong foundation in nonprofit financial stewardship by understanding the essential roles of the Board and Executive Director, exploring key financial practices, and learning strategies for building and maintaining effective financial oversight.
SESSION 4 · OCTOBER 7
Communications, Marketing, and Development
Explore nonprofit communications and fundraising, including developing compelling messages, understanding key audiences, building a basic fundraising plan, and creating a communications approach that increases impact.
SESSION 5 · OCTOBER 21
People Management and Organizational Culture
Build the systems and skills needed to support a healthy organizational culture, including effective HR practices, staff management, and leadership through periods of change.
SESSION 6 · OCTOBER 28
Strategic Planning
Explore the core components of an effective strategic plan, how and when to use strategic planning as a leadership tool, and how to translate organizational priorities into actionable goals, objectives, and implementation strategies.
SESSION 7 · NOVEMBER 4
External Relationships: Partnerships & Collaboration
Explore how to build authentic partnerships and meaningful community connections that strengthen your organization’s impact and create lasting relationships beyond individual leaders’ tenure.
SESSION 8 · NOVEMBER 11
Potpourri and Graduation!
Address lingering questions and leadership challenges with an open conversation on topics that matter most, and then celebrate the learning, connections, and training series together!
FAQs
CAN MY ORGANIZATION PAY FOR MY TUITION?
Yes! Many participants have their tuition covered by their organization or board. We can issue a direct invoice to your finance department or accept payment via organizational credit card, ACH, or check.
HOW DO I OFFICIALLY SECURE MY SPOT?
Completing the registration form submits your application, but your seat is only confirmed once tuition is paid in full or there is a payment plan in place with a credit card on file.
WHAT PAYMENT METHODS ARE ACCEPTED?
We accept credit cards, ACH bank transfers, checks, and direct invoicing (ideal if your organization is sponsoring your attendance). Payment details and processing instructions are provided upon form submission.
WHAT TIME ARE THE SESSIONS, AND WHAT IF I MISS ONE?
Sessions take place live via Zoom on Wednesdays from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM CST. While live participation is strongly encouraged to get the most out of peer discussions, session materials and recordings are provided if you need to miss a class. (Note: No session on October 14).
I CAN’T MAKE IT TO THIS ONE. WILL THERE BE MORE COHORTS IN THE FUTURE?
Yes! Email us with your information and we’ll reach out with future cohort dates in 2027.
What Past Cohort Leaders Are Saying About Mighty Foundations
“The course was a great investment to help me become a better Executive Director!”
“The advice and information was very grounded, practical, and realistic- put on by folks really connected with current experiences of being an Executive Director.”
“It’s a great way to build community with leaders in similar phases of their executive journey. A low-pressure environment that allows for candid conversation and learning.”
“The topics were highly relevant and the presenters were very knowledgeable, easy to relate to, and great to discuss things with.”