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










