Nonprofit Executive Institute

Applications for Class 18 (2025) are now closed. Applications for Class 19 (2026) will open Summer 2025.

The Nonprofit Executive Institute (NEI) is an eleven-month leadership program designed to equip nonprofit leaders with the skills, strategies, and connections they need to drive organizational sustainability and community transformation.

Through a series of capacity-building seminars, participants develop expertise in:

  • Organizational Leadership – Strengthening internal structures and governance.
  • Prosperous Leadership – Building financial sustainability and resource development.
  • Strategic Leadership – Leading with vision and long-term planning.
  • Public Leadership – Engaging with stakeholders and advocating for impact.
  • Program Leadership – Enhancing program effectiveness and service delivery.

NEI is designed for nonprofit professionals in leadership positions who want to expand their professional network and gain practical, tactical skills to elevate their organizations.


“Participating in NEI provided solid on the job training while giving me time to build relationships with and learn from other nonprofit leaders.”

–Michelle Zych
The Sherwood Foundation


 Frequently Asked Questions

Nonprofit Executive Institute is for early- to mid-career nonprofit professionals who are ready to grow their leadership and tactical skills and expand their professional network. The ideal NEI candidate has a demonstrated history of nonprofit leadership.
If you currently or previously have held leadership positions and aspire to lead a nonprofit organization, you should apply. NEI is not appropriate for nonprofit professionals who hold or have held primarily entry-level positions. 
Monthly class dates are listed on the application for each year's cohort. Sessions are 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. on weekdays. Optional networking lunches are held between sessions.
All sessions are at the NAM Training Room, located at 1111 N. 13th Street in Omaha, NE. While we hope organizational support for travel will be available for participants, a limited travel stipend may be available for participants traveling from outside of the Omaha area.
Yes, as long as you currently or previously have held leadership roles and aspire to lead a nonprofit. While leadership skills translate across sectors, nonprofits operate uniquely. NEI provides the knowledge and connections needed to navigate nonprofit management successfully.
We encourage you to apply again. Class sizes are limited and there are many moving parts to determining the makeup of each year's class, so qualified candidates may not be selected in a given year. If you’re committed to attending, please do reapply.
Highly competitive. Each year, we receive more applications than available spots and the number of applicants grows year over year. When applying, bring your 'A-game' – demonstrate thoughtfulness and creativity, and definitely make sure your LinkedIn profile is updated. 

We take attendance seriously. Participants may miss one full session; arriving late or leaving early counts as a half-session absence. Missing more than one session will result in removal from the program and refunds will not be given. In this case, you'll be invited to reapply for the next year's class.

In this close cohort, you're important! Your classmates will miss you and your contributions if you're gone, so we need you there.

A leadership team of NEI alumni and nonprofit professionals reviews applications and selects each cohort – they are nonprofit role models who 'walk the walk' that NEI applicants aspire to.

The current NEI Leadership Team is:

  • Kim Armstrong, Mutual of Omaha Foundation
  • Liz Codina, Peter Kiewit Foundation
  • Andi Curry Grubb, Planned Parenthood North Central States
  • Anne Hindery, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands
  • Lynne Lange, Mission Matters
  • Tess Larson, Sherwood Foundation
  • Tahnee Markussen, Lozier Foundation
  • Matt Martin, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands
  • Melissa Mayo, Mentor Nebraska
  • Cliff McEvoy, The Collective for Hope
  • Beth Morrissette, Parlay Consulting Firm
  • Morgan Ormsby, The Bay
  • Tegan Reed, Nebraska Diaper Bank
  • Jerry Samuels, Phoenix Academy
  • Brandy Wallar, New Visions Homeless Services

Current tuition:

  • NAM Members: $1,250
  • Not-Yet Members: $2,500

Payment in full is due before the first session unless special arrangements are made. Contact NAM to discuss payment options.

  1. Make sure you're within the application window for the current class. If you don't see links to apply on this page, check back in the near future for the next class application.
  2. Review the application questions and prepare your responses. Remember, be thoughtful and creative.
  3. Submit your application online before the application window closes.
  4. Update your LinkedIn profile. Yes, it matters.
  5. Celebrate! You took the first step.
If you experience technical difficulties or need clarification on part of the application, contact NAM. However, staff availability may be limited as the deadline approaches due to application volume – we can't guarantee answers close to the application date.
Really need answers? Ask your questions and apply early. 
Have more questions? Contact NAM and we’ll connect you with the right staff member.