The Career Pathways Program stands as a premier leadership initiative designed to cultivate authentic leadership qualities in individuals dedicated to enhancing their professional practice and expanding their network within the philanthropic sector. This intensive 10-month hybrid program is meticulously crafted for mid- to senior-level professionals in philanthropy who aspire to advance their careers while fostering a more equitable society. Participants in the Council On Foundations Career Pathways Program engage in critical discussions on pertinent philanthropic issues and delve into the inherent complexities of the sector. They explore innovative practices on a national scale and build a robust community of support. The program cohort is intentionally diverse, representing a wide array of foundations, grantmaking bodies, and philanthropic organizations from across the nation.
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As the flagship leadership development program of the Council on Foundations, the Career Pathways Program was established in 2010 with the core mission of increasing the representation of diverse leaders in senior and executive roles within philanthropy. Continuously evolving since its inception, the program now transcends traditional leadership definitions. It prioritizes lived experiences and practices that are instrumental in attracting and retaining professionals of color, individuals from marginalized communities, and their allies, ensuring a more inclusive and representative philanthropic landscape.
The Distinct Advantages of the Career Pathways Program
The effectiveness of the Career Pathways Program is rooted in its unique design. Participants gain unparalleled access to a vibrant community of peers, fostering collaborative learning and mutual support. This community serves as a platform for in-depth discussions on current and relevant topics in philanthropy, exploration of effective leadership practices, and the development of organizational change strategies. A cornerstone of the 10-month program is the Leadership-In-Action Project. This capstone project challenges participants to apply their acquired knowledge and skills to create tangible impact within their own organizations or the broader field of philanthropy. Furthermore, the Council on Foundations Career Pathways Program provides personalized support structures for each participant to nurture their individual growth. This includes dedicated sessions with an executive coach, offering a space for reflection and refinement of their leadership styles and strengths.
The tangible outcome of the Career Pathways Program is that graduates emerge with a well-defined authentic leadership strategy, equipped with enhanced skills and an expanded professional network. This empowers them to effectively implement their strategies within their organizations and communities. Notably, approximately 90 percent of Career Pathways graduates currently hold senior-level executive positions within foundations, underscoring the program’s significant impact on career advancement and leadership development in the philanthropic sector.
Explore the Council on Foundations Career Pathways Program and Application Process
To determine if the Council on Foundations Career Pathways Program aligns with your career aspirations or the development needs of someone within your organization, and to gain insights into the 2025-26 program schedule, curriculum, and application process, we invite you to join our Career Pathways 2025-26 Program Information Session on January 15.
For specific inquiries regarding your application to the Council on Foundations Career Pathways Program, we offer dedicated Career Pathways 2025-26 Application Office Hours on January 28 and February 18.
