For Immediate Release

Contact: Daniel Wackershauser, Marketing and PR Specialist
Phone: 608.822.2303
Mail: 1800 Bronson Blvd., Fennimore, WI 53809
Date of Release: November 24, 2020

Nonprofit Leadership program added at Southwest Tech

Fennimore -

A new program at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College will give students the tools to flourish in a career that allows them to make a positive impact for others. The new Nonprofit Leadership program launches Jan. 18. The two-year associate degree program will be offered 100-percent online.

“This program is really for anyone who is interested in serving their community and in public service,” said Caitlin Gokey, who, along with Christina Kline, will serve as adjunct instructors for the program. “This is a challenging time for many of us and for many communities. In my experience, when things are difficult, one of the only things that makes me feel better is to get involved, to make sure your voice is being heard, to get engaged in problem-solving or strategizing about how to address some critical issues that are facing you or your community.”

Gokey and Kline are eager to educate their students on the importance of nonprofit leadership and how each student can make a positive impact in their community. “This is such an incredible field,” said Kline. “I am so grateful to be able to work in this sector because it’s rewarding to know that the work you’re doing is impacting the lives of the people in our communities.”

According to Kline, she and Gokey are developing the program so it encompasses the entire nonprofit sector and the issues it is facing. There will also be hands-on components within the course that will allow the students to make an immediate impact in their communities. “We will cover everything from the theoretical to the practical, including fundraising, marketing, board development, volunteer management, event planning, direct service and more,” said Kline.

“As a college we are always evaluating new areas of interest with exciting career options,” said Jason Wood, Southwest Tech president. “Not only does our new Nonprofit Leadership program offer dynamic career opportunities, it will allow our graduates to make a significant difference in their communities on a daily basis.”

In addition, and unique to the Southwest Tech offering, an understanding of equity and inclusion and cultural competency will be a core component of the program. It will not be a separate course. “We haven’t seen that in any other programs as explicitly as we will be offering it,” said Gokey.

The importance of the nonprofit sector continues to expand in the United States, according to Kline. “There’s more disparity in our country than ever before,” she said. “The gap between the wealthy and those who are just struggling just to meet their basic needs continues to widen. The nonprofit sector continues to play a very big role in addressing those inequities and supporting those in our community who need it most. Now is the time that nonprofit leaders can look for innovative solutions to addressing these challenges that our communities face.”

“Nonprofits fill the gaps in communities that are not being met by government services and government agencies,” added Gokey. “It takes time for things to getting moving at the government level. Nonprofits can move now. They can address really emergent needs they see in their communities and in their regions.”

This program is perfect for working adults who are looking to make a positive impact, according to Kline and Gokey. “Anyone can be a leader, especially in this sector,” said Kline. “Because there is so much need, there is an opportunity, no matter what your role is in an organization, whether you are employed or a volunteer, you can make a tremendous impact when you boldly lead. The skills that students will learn will be applicable throughout their future career, whether they stay local or serve nationally or globally.”

“We want people who want to be engaged in their community,” added Gokey.

Gokey earned a Master’s degree in public administration/nonprofit management, while Kline has a Master’s degree in nonprofit studies.

Kline had an interest in the nonprofit field and volunteering since her high school days. That continued through college and into her professional life. “I always knew I wanted to work in the nonprofit sector,” she said.

Gokey was raised with a commitment to volunteerism and public service as well. She volunteered with the Peace Corps for three years before ultimately beginning her public service career.

To learn more about the program, visit www.swtc.edu/npl.

 

| Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is one of 16 institutions that comprise the Wisconsin Technical College System. Southwest Tech offers more than 60 programs in a wide variety of disciplines. Courses are offered on campus, online and in a blended format. The college provides apprenticeship, certificate, technical diploma, and associate degree programs that respond to district workforce needs and prepare student for family-sustaining jobs and career advancement. |