Cobb Community Foundation names five to leadership program Archives

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Five nonprofit leaders shaping the future of Cobb County have been selected for a highly competitive leadership development program designed to strengthen the organizations residents depend on every day.

Cobb Community Foundation (CCF), in partnership with Kennesaw State University (KSU), has announced its 2026 Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) cohort — a select group of executives representing the arts, education, family services, mentoring, and grassroots community support.

“This is an investment in people who are already doing great work for our community,” said Shari Martin, President & CEO of Cobb Community Foundation. “This program is designed to equip them with stronger systems, sharper strategies, and sustainable funding tools. It’s a win-win for all of us.”

Leadership Training with Immediate Impact

The six-month program combines rigorous online coursework with six in-person workshops facilitated 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.

Cohort members also participate in Elevate, a national virtual conference hosted by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, connecting nonprofit leaders across the country and highlighting emerging trends in the sector.

$5,000 Incentive Grants: “The Big Finish”

Upon successful completion, each participant’s organization will receive a $5,000 unrestricted grant from Cobb Community Foundation. Known as The Big Finish, the incentive helps translate learning into action.

One graduate from last year’s cohort used the grant to launch a texting campaign that helped raise nearly $108,000 during the holiday season to support cancer patients in crisis.

Meet the 2025–2026 Cohort

The selected nonprofit leaders 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 brings deep experience and a shared commitment to strengthening the nonprofit sector in Cobb County.

Strengthening Nonprofits Countywide

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.

Participants will complete the program in July and present their final projects at a celebratory luncheon hosted by KSU.

Learn More

To learn more about the Certified Nonprofit Professional program and future opportunities, visit cobbfoundation.org.

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