NorthSky Executive Coaching Pilot Program

Download program application including scholarship application: LeadershipCoachingApplication 11-18-11.doc


Executive coaching is defined as a one-on-one confidential relationship that supports, encourages and challenges leaders to move forward and take action. For-profit leaders have been utilizing coaching as an effective method of growing their top performers and now the nonprofit sector is beginning to do the same. Nonprofit leaders are working with coaches to help them:


Starting in January, 2012, NorthSky Nonprofit Network is offering leaders the opportunity to be part of a pilot program to determine the impact of coaching on nonprofit leaders and their organizations. This is a chance to work with an executive coach in reaching your personal and professional goals. The program is set up with the following parameters:



  • Stay focused on top priorities.

  • Make organizational changes.

  • Strengthen leadership and interpersonal skills.

  • Find work-life balance.

  • Build strong teams and working boards.

  • Transition into new roles and responsibilities.

  • Address feelings of isolation and burnout.

  • A total of 15 individuals will be chosen to participate in the program through an application process.

  • The cost of the program is $1200 with scholarship funding available. (As funds are limited, if necessary, scholarships will be prioritized to persons who are leaders at organizations that have completed NorthSky organizational capacity assessment).

  • The program will run for 6 months, starting in January 2012.

  • Individual coaching sessions are totally confidential and primarily done over the phone.

  • A 360-degree Dennison leadership assessment survey will be utilized, the results of which will only be viewed by the participant and coach

  • An evaluation assessment is required at the end of the program.

The pilot program will be led by Lucille Chrisman, a professionally trained executive coach from the Coaches Training Institute (CTI) and a member of the International Coach Federation, helping leaders and teams maximize their potential. She will be certified as a Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) in December, with an emphasis in nonprofit development. In addition to her coaching career, Lucille is president and founder of CommunicationWorks, a consulting firm specializing in interpersonal communication, helping individuals and teams strengthen channels of communication.


Previous to her coaching career, Lucille was Vice President of Public Affairs and Executive Director of Development at Saginaw Valley State University. She oversaw all fundraising activities and key marketing initiatives for the University. In addition to her senior level position, she taught undergraduate courses in Interpersonal Communications and was actively involved in community programs.


Lucille has a Masters degree from Central Michigan University and an undergraduate degree from Northern Michigan University.


If you are interested in learning more about the program and how you might benefit from coaching, attend the informational session:
November 22, 2011, 12 noon – 1 pm Register Now


Download program application including scholarship application: LeadershipCoachingApplication 11-18-11.doc