Rising Leaders Institute

Rising Leaders Institute Logo

Applications for Class 6 (2025) have closed. Class 7 (2026) applications will open Summer 2025.

The Rising Leaders Institute (RLI) is a year-long leadership development program designed for early-career nonprofit professionals who are ready to grow. Through a cohort-based experience, participants gain mentorship, expert-led discussions, and practical strategies to work toward leadership positions in the nonprofit sector.

A collaboration with the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Greater Omaha (ynpnGO), RLI provides real-world insights, hands-on learning, and a strong peer network to enhance the leadership capacity of young nonprofit professionals in around Greater Omaha. Join a community of rising leaders who are shaping the future of the nonprofit sector.

What to Expect

  • Mentorship – Connect with an experienced nonprofit leader who will guide and support your professional growth.
  • Expert-Led Discussions – Learn from subject matter experts on key leadership areas like:
    • Emotional intelligence and self-awareness in the workplace
    • Leadership through an equity, inclusion and justice lens
    • Self-advocacy and owning your professional development
  • Interactive Learning – Engage in small group discussions, hands-on exercises, and workplace application.
  • Supportive Network – Develop meaningful connections with peers, mentors, and established nonprofit professionals
  • Recognition – All participants are recognized at the annual Nonprofit Summit of the Midlands

Program Commitment

  • Sessions – Third Tuesday of every other month, February-December
  • Tuition – $150 (scholarships available)
  • Attendance – Participants are expected to attend all six sessions

Why RLI?

  • Young professionals: RLI offers a structured path to leadership, helping you develop the confidence and skills needed to step into greater responsibility.
  • Employers: RLI strengthens your team’s leadership capacity, boosting your staff’s professional growth and developing potential for greater organizational impact.
2025 Rising Leaders Planning Committee
  • Parker Brown, Creighton University 
  • Tamara Dwyer, City of Omaha
  • Abby Fogle-Erickson, ynpnGO Board & Bemis Center For Contemporary Arts
  • Sarah Dee Hollibaugh, Education Rights Counsel
  • Abby Hughes, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands
  • Michael Johnson, Avenue Scholars
  • Patrick Kilcoyne, ynpnGO Board & Metropolitan Community College
  • Matt Martin, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands
  • Amanda Novotny, Women's Center for Advancement
  • Andy Saladino, Youth Emergency Services
  • Erica Schumann, Women's Fund of Omaha
  • Hannah Tamayo, KVC Nebraska
  • Hannah Young, Nonprofit Association of the Midlands