Cobb Community Foundation (CCF) is excited to announce the selection of five outstanding nonprofit executives for its 2026 Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) program—an elite leadership development opportunity designed to strengthen the organizations Cobb County residents rely on every day. In partnership with Kennesaw State University (KSU), this nationally recognized program invests in leaders who are already making a difference and equips them with tools to build stronger, more sustainable nonprofits.
Representing the arts, education, mentoring, family services, and grassroots community support, this year’s cohort reflects the diversity, innovation, and commitment that define Cobb County’s nonprofit sector.
A Powerful Investment in Nonprofit Leadership
The six-month Certified Nonprofit Professional program combines rigorous online coursework with six in-person workshops led by Dr. Jennifer Wade-Berg, Assistant Dean and Professor at Kennesaw State University. Participants commit approximately 10 hours per week while continuing to lead their organizations—ensuring that learning is immediately applied to real-world challenges.
Cohort members also participate in Elevate, a national virtual conference hosted by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, which connects nonprofit leaders from across the country and highlights emerging trends, best practices, and innovative approaches shaping the sector.
This immersive experience strengthens leadership capacity while directly benefiting the communities these organizations serve.
$5,000 Incentive Grants: The Big Finish
A hallmark of the CNP program is The Big Finish—a $5,000 unrestricted incentive grant awarded to each participant’s organization upon successful completion of the program. These grants are designed to help leaders turn new ideas into action and accelerate impact.
The results speak for themselves. One graduate from last year’s cohort used the grant to launch a texting campaign that raised nearly $108,000 during the holiday season, providing critical support to cancer patients in crisis.
Meet the 2025–2026 CNP Cohort
The five nonprofit leaders selected for the 2025–2026 cohort are:
- Andy Gaines, Executive Director, Friends of The Strand / Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre
- Laura Kraus, Executive Director, Marietta Schools Foundation
- Kristen Thompson, Executive Director, Mentoring for Leadership
- Carolyn Turner, Founder & Executive Director, HOPE Family Resource Center
- Jody Vane, President, Cobb Moms Helping Cobb
Each leader brings a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to strengthening Cobb County’s nonprofit landscape.
Strengthening Nonprofits Across Cobb County
The Certified Nonprofit Professional program reflects a shared commitment by Cobb Community Foundation and Kennesaw State University to build strong, resilient nonprofit organizations with lasting community impact. By investing in people who are already doing great work, the program helps ensure that nonprofits are equipped to grow, adapt, and serve well into the future.
Participants will complete the program in July and present their final projects at a celebratory luncheon hosted by KSU—marking an exciting milestone for both the leaders and the organizations they serve.
🔗 Learn more about the Certified Nonprofit Professional program here
