Whether you're a seasoned leader looking to refine your approach or aspiring to step into a leadership role, our Leadership Coaching Cohort offers a personalized experience to meet your unique needs and goals. 

Tailored for changemakers at all levels, this program offers 1-on-1 coaching, collaborative learning, and networking opportunities to enhance your skills and drive positive change.

 As the Leadership Coaching Cohort prepares to welcome a new group of leaders, I asked Jennifer Hricik, who participated in the Fall 2023 cohort, to share her insights into the program. I hope this interview will resonate with you as a valuable endorsement of the program's enduring impact and transformative potential!

-Miriam Owsley Briggs

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Miriam: Can you share a bit about your background and what motivated you to participate in the Leadership Coaching Cohort?

Jennifer: I've dedicated my career to higher education, from admissions at my alma mater to consulting and marketing for nonprofits and higher-ed. After working remotely for a stint in Traverse City, I jumped at the opportunity to join the NMC Foundation. The varied experiences I've had built a diverse toolkit, and joining the Leadership Coaching Cohort felt like the next step to refine my leadership style and tackle new challenges.

What insights did you gain from working with Lucille Chrisman during the coaching sessions?

Working with Lucille was a game-changer. It's more than just coaching; I’ve experienced a transformation. Through the cohort sessions with other leaders, I realized I'm not alone in my struggles, and that's powerful. Through big life changes and career decisions, Lucille was my trusted partner. In our 1-on-1 sessions, she helped me peel back the layers, understand what truly matters to me, and consider where I want to make an impact in the community. Lucille fosters a safe and confidential environment where you can be authentically you. 

How has your confidence as a leader evolved since participating in the Leadership Coaching Cohort?

Oh, absolutely. Women are often apologetic, especially in professional settings, and after each session, I felt more confident embracing my role as a leader. Being the Interim Executive Director of the NMC Foundation put me in a position of limbo, but coaching reminded me to be the leader I know I am. Others noticed the shift, and I started leading with more assurance.

How do you envision applying the skills and insights you've gained from the program in your future endeavors?

Transitioning back into my role as Leadership Gift Specialist, Lucille's coaching has empowered me to tell my own story. When I stepped up into the interim position, I recognized the risk and the eventual need to decide about the permanent role. Lucille never told me what to do; instead, she collaborated with me to define what truly resonated with my goals. I'm driven by working with great people, whether students, donors, or clients. Building relationships and community is in my DNA, and coaching has given me the clarity and confidence to pursue that.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the upcoming Spring 2024 Cohort?

Don't miss this chance! In the nonprofit world, we often think we don't have time for professional development. I say, now is the time. Make yourself a priority. To nonprofit boards, give your leaders this opportunity—it's an investment in the success of your organization. For participants, dive in, make the most of it. I looked at this opportunity for years, thinking it wasn't for me. But guess what? The Leadership Coaching Cohort is for everyone, no matter your title or tenure. Even without the major shifts in my life, this was the year I would have applied, and I am so glad I did. Don't wait, just go for it!

Apply today and seize this opportunity to grow, learn, and lead with confidence.

Apply for the Leadership Coaching Cohort