Nonprofit Executive Director Forum

Description: Everything you wanted to know about being a nonprofit leader, but never had the chance to ask.

Thursday, September 15, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

National Bank of Arizona, 6001 North 24th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85016

Join YNPN (Young Nonprofit Professionals Network) for a panel discussion and small group break-out sessions with five dynamic local nonprofit Executive Directors/CEOs from the arts and health/human services sectors:

    Nate Anderson, Founder/Executive Director, Ear Candy

    Pam Gaber, Chief Executive Officer, Gabriel’s Angels

    Mark Holleran, CEO, CASS

    Christy McClendon, Executive Director, The Wellness Community - Arizona

    Steve Zabilski, Executive Director, St. Vincent de Paul


Learn about the career paths that led them to leadership positions, what factors contributed to their success, what steps you can take to follow in their footsteps, and where they see the next opportunities in the Phoenix market.

My Takeaways:

 I really liked the round-table concept for this workshop. Each of the EDs sat at each table for 10 minutes at a time and we got to ask them any questions and these are just some of the pearls of wisdom that I gleaned from each of these people:

• Re-evaluate your idea perpetually and relentlessly
• Remain focused on the end focus. Never settle for medocrity
• Focus on fundraising and work with volunteers
• Defend profitability in the nonprofit sector
• Follow your passion
• Be comfortable with basic assumptions and be honest with your strengths and weaknesses
• Put the client first
• Beware of Mission creep
• Get distracted and fail
• Skills: passion, mentor, be knowledgeable