Paul Bieniek
pbb001@marietta.edu
Next Generation (Next Gen), a non-profit academic program developed by Nonprofits LEAD allows students to gain leadership experience by serving on the boards of local non-profits, is seeking applicants for its seventh cohort.
According to Amy Elliott, director of the program at Marietta College, there is also a one-credit class associated with the program that she co-teaches with Director of Civic Engagement Maribeth Saleem-Tanner. The course is designated as LEAD 340-1, and will meet once a week at a time that works for all members of the cohort.
“Students go ahead and sign up for their classes for next semester, and then they also sign up for LEAD 340-1 and we find a time that works for everyone,” Elliott said.
Elliott further explained that it is a three semester program. In the first semester, students learn the basics about non-profits and the functions of boards. They are also paired with a non-profit that suits their interests. In the second semester, the cohort learns the art of grant writing and complete a grant. In the final semester, they focus on service learning and present on their experience.
Senior Elizabeth Maynard, a current member of the sixth cohort, said the program has given her valuable understanding.
“Next Gen has been a brilliant experience that has definitely come with many hardships that have prepared me for real world situations more than any other academic program I have participated in. When I first started, I expected it to be a breeze, but working intimately on an executive board is unpredictable and challenging,” Maynard said. “I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who is interesting working in the government, medical or private sectors of non- and for-profit organizations because it gives you raw, hands-on experience.”
Elliot said the time commitment is not over-burdensome, with an hour of class and an hour-long board meeting per week, with other meetings and activities coming up from time to time. She emphasized that students would find the experience more than worth it.
“It’s a priceless experience. I just met with a board that wants a student and they said ‘Oh my goodness, I wish I could have taken this,’” she said. “This really jumps out on a resume.”
Questions or requests for an application can be addressed to Amy Elliott at 740-376-4559 or amy@nonprofitslead.org, or simply stop by her office on the second floor of McDonough. There will be two open houses for interested students. They will take place Tuesday, Nov. 1 from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. and Wednesday Nov. 2 from 1:30 to 2:30 in the Betty Cleland Room in McDonough. Refreshments will be served.
Applications for the program will be due Tuesday, Nov. 15.
