CCC Fundraising Academy

California Community College Fundraising Academy
Powered by NCCCF

A professional development program built for California Community College Foundation practitioners by people who know the landscape.

August 20 – October 1, 2026 | Virtual | Thursdays, 9:00–10:30 a.m. PST

About the Program

The CCC Fundraising Academy is a seven-session, cohort-based professional development program designed exclusively for California Community College Foundation practitioners. Developed by California Community College Foundations leaders who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of community college advancement. This academy delivers practical, Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE)-aligned curriculum through an evidence-based case study model.

Over seven consecutive Thursdays, you will build the knowledge and skills to lead philanthropy with confidence and develop lasting professional relationships with colleagues across California.

Why the CCC Fundraising Academy?

Built for the California Community College World

This is not a generic fundraising program. Every session is tailored to the California community college landscape, taught by expert faculty from within the California Community College Foundation field, and enriched by cross-sector guest scholars and presenters.

  • Earn CFRE continuing education credits.
  • The curriculum is fully aligned with the CFRE competency framework. Participants earn 10–14 continuing education credits.
  • Learn by doing.
  • The Academy uses the case study method as its primary instructional model. Each session combines theory, real-world case study application, and small-group peer discussion, so you leave every week with something you can use.
  • Build your statewide network.
  • The cohort model is intentional. You will work alongside peers from foundations across California, building relationships that last well beyond the Academy.

Who Should Attend?

This Academy is ideal for:

  • New (1–4 years) or aspiring executive directors at a California community college
  • Mid- to senior-level philanthropy professionals who are new to the community college system
  • Associate directors and directors of Development at a community college
  • Emerging leaders and development associates who are ready to step into greater responsibility

Tuition and Pricing

NCCCF Member: $499

(Save $500 off the non-member rate)

NCCCF members receive a $500 discount off the full tuition price. Membership must be current to qualify for the member rate. Not yet a member, or need to renew? Email info@ncccfweb.org

Non-Member: $999

Open to all California Community College Foundation professionals.

Session Topics

All sessions meet virtually on Thursdays from 9:00–10:30 a.m. PST.

Session Date

Session Topic

Session 1 | Aug 20

Philanthropic Landscape, Leadership and Management in Fundraising

Session 2 | Aug 27

Professional Fundraising, Ethics, Donor-Centric Practice and Culture of Philanthropy in California Community Colleges

Session 3 | Sep 3

Relationship Building: Volunteer Management and Board Engagement

Session 4 | Sep 10

Securing the Gift, Part 1: Donor Research, The Ask, Case for Support and Campaign Launches

Session 5 | Sep 17

Securing the Gift, Part 2: Alumni, Major Gifts, and Planned Giving

Session 6 | Sep 24

Collaboration and Innovation: Building Partnerships in CCC Fundraising

Session 7 | Oct 1

Return on Investment/Return on Equity, Metrics and Benchmarking in Fundraising Accountability

How to Apply

Applications are due by July 29, 2026.

Space is limited. If you are ready to invest in your advancement career and contribute to a statewide community of practice, we encourage you to apply today.

Want to Learn More Before You Apply?

Join us for a free virtual info session on July 22, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. PST. Meet the committee, ask your questions, and find out whether the CCC Fundraising Academy is the right next step for you.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Interested in sponsoring the CCC Fundraising Academy?

Schedule a 20-minute partnership conversation with the Academy team.

Jackie Cruz, Ed.D., Academy Chair and President, NCCCF, jcruz@hartnell.edu

Sheri Horn-Bunk, Marketing and Sales Lead, NCCCF, shorn-bunk@taftcollege.edu

Olivia Light, Academy Coordinator, Olivia@Glightservices.com

Sponsors

AwardSpring is the scholarship and donor management platform trusted by 600+ colleges and foundations.
Gonser Gerber LLP, founded in 1950 as the nation’s first comprehensive advancement consulting firm, provides clients with individually-crafted consulting relationships.  Over 900 organizations have been served. These relationships result in innovative solutions, improved philanthropic performance, and goals achieved.  Services include:  advancement counsel; campaign readiness studies; campaign counsel; advancement program and Foundation assessments; executive search for advancement and Foundation leaders; strategic planning; Gonser Gerber Institute programs; and leadership development.