I am grateful to the SLA for equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools, resources, and relationships they will need to move our community forward.

As a leader, you may not have an easy way to develop your leadership. This can leave you worried you’ll miss out on opportunities to make a difference. Shafer Leadership Academy helps individuals grow your leadership skills, increase your success, and make an impact in your community.
August
In-Person 3 Hour Session Life isn’t just about the finish line…it’s about HOW you run the race. We’ve been taught to measure success by how fast we move, how much
We’ve been taught to measure success by how fast we move, how much we accomplish, and how well we keep up. But what if the real win isn’t about running harder—but running smarter? This interactive session is for anyone who’s tired of feeling like they’re on a treadmill with no off-switch.
Through practical tools, unexpected insights, and real talk, we’ll explore how to shift out of autopilot and reclaim control over your time, energy, and outlook. You’ll walk away with new ways to define success that actually fuel you—not drain you. This isn’t about checking out—it’s about tuning in to what really matters so you can lead, live, and work with more clarity and satisfaction.
Participants will leave with:
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $250 non-member. $200 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Erika Bayh stands at the helm of “The Extraordinary In You,” an organization that provides vibrant partnerships and facilitated experiences designed to ignite and unleash the extraordinary in individuals, teams, and projects. She is a master facilitator, inspirational coach, growth trainer, curriculum designer, and strategic partner with over thirty years of expertise in igniting the personal and professional growth in individuals and organizations. Erika recently left her decades-long stead with the NYC-based Leadership Program, where she was responsible for overseeing the programmatic growth of one of the city’s largest afterschool programs, designed ongoing professional development trainings for staff of the NYC DOE as well as educators around the country, and spearheaded the creation of leadership curricula honored by CASEL, OJJDP, SAMHSA, and more.
Erika is also an adjunct professor, currently instructing students at Ball State University in Indiana on an undergraduate course she created, “An Introduction to Youth Work,” designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the diverse realm of youth work. She is the author of the interactive personal growth journal, “On Wings & Whimsy: Finding the Extraordinary in the Ordinary,” as well as the deck of cards, “52 Ways to Connect,” designed for leaders to strengthen their team time.
August 21, 2025 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Virtual 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, August 27th 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST Session #2: Thursday, August 28th 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST This workshop provides an opportunity for leaders to
Session #1:
Wednesday, August 27th
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST
Session #2:
Thursday, August 28th
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST
This workshop provides an opportunity for leaders to learn & practice giving and receiving different types of feedback, keeping in mind the intersection of various inclusion concepts. We utilize the SBI model, elaborating on nuances for positive, negative, and collaborative feedback and we cover concepts such as bias, power, microaggressions, and system. The majority of this session is spent in breakouts, practicing with real life scenarios.
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $250 non-member. $200 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Lillian Forsyth is an accomplished coach and workshop facilitator specializing in communication, leadership, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. With a background in Operations and Human Resources across both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Lillian brings a unique perspective shaped by her extensive experience living and working internationally. As a straight white woman, she has dedicated over 20 years to examining her own privileges and biases, critically engaging with the complex role that white women have historically played in justice and equity movements. Lillian is the Co-Founder and CEO of Lead with Equity, where she partners with organizations to foster inclusive cultures. Her work has impacted audiences at prominent corporate entities like Google, Santander US Bank, and RWJBarnabas Health. She has also presented at respected academic institutions, including the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and Barnard College. As a guest on podcasts such as Embrace the Pivot and Agency for Change, and a speaker at conferences like the American Society of Project Management Professionals, Lillian shares insights to support meaningful change in leadership and DEI practices.
August 27, 2025 2:00 pm - August 28, 2025 3:30 pm
September
Engage. Connect. Create. The Art of Virtual Facilitation is designed to help you lead online sessions that are engaging, focused, and dynamic. Whether you’re guiding a team meeting, training,
The Art of Virtual Facilitation is designed to help you lead online sessions that are engaging, focused, and dynamic. Whether you’re guiding a team meeting, training, or group discussion, this workshop will equip you with the tools and techniques to create meaningful virtual experiences. You’ll explore how to manage energy and attention, use interactive tools with purpose, and show up with presence and confidence in a digital space. *This is workshop number three in our facilitation/speaking series of 2025.
1. Learn strategies to increase focus and participation in a group setting
2. Discover how to utilize diverse virtual tools for interactive engagement
3. Boost your presence and savviness as a confident virtual facilitator
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $50 non-member. $30 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Eilis (A-lish) Wasserman is the Program Director at Shafer Leadership Academy focused on overseeing impactful leadership development programming and creating innovative opportunities for Shafer members. She has a background as a career coach and facilitator, dedicated to cultivating confidence and inspiring self-discovery. She is an introvert and early career professional advocate, empowering introverts to hone their unique strengths and develop their own career stories. Eilis believes the most valuable skill that you can learn, and practice is the art of connecting- it’s all about telling our story. Eilis is a freelance coach on The Muse and has worked as a career coach with Ball State University and the University of Michigan. Eilis looks forward to working with you to present your best self wherever you may be in your career journey.
September 4, 2025 8:00 am - 9:30 am
In-person Lunch & Learn Today, we are living in a world where disagreement reigns and people are divided. A chasm is widening between us and them, where everyone picks a side
Today, we are living in a world where disagreement reigns and people are divided. A chasm is widening between us and them, where everyone picks a side and tries to win at the expense of others. Why is this happening? Too many leaders are taking the low road with others. They do what serves themselves best. They take from others without giving anything back. This workshop will guide you how to avoid the low and middle roads and take the high road in your leadership.
Casey Ash is a leadership development trainer with 12 years of experience leading team and personal development workshops. She is a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team member and Certified Working Genius Facilitator who uses workshops to help people and teams discover their gifts and reach their potential. She also holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Dayton School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University. Personal development has been life-changing for her, and she is passionate about sharing this with others.
September 9, 2025 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Led by: Eilis Wasserman Let’s talk about connecting- Networking, is the most important career and life skill you can learn. Whether you are looking for a job, looking into
Led by: Eilis Wasserman
Let’s talk about connecting- Networking, is the most important career and life skill you can learn. Whether you are looking for a job, looking into expand your influence at work or in the community, building social capital can make a significant impact in our lives and the lives of others. In this workshop, we’ll discuss how to build relationships with like-minded people and share your value.
Eastern Indiana Works provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a free service to our clients.
Workshops are designed to enhance your marketability and improve your skill-set.
Please register within 24 hours of workshop time. This is a virtual workshop.
September 12, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
2025tue16sep2:00 pm3:00 pmOff the Shelf- The Let Them TheoryIN-PERSON DISCUSSION2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Read a book. Lead with inspiration. SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways
SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways from inspirational leadership books. At each event, facilitators will share key leadership development lessons from leadership-focused books. This is not a book club, rather a guided discussion around the key takeaways from each book.
Prior reading of the book is not required but we encourage participants to share about what they learned and check-out one of the books from Muncie Public Library. All participants attending will be entered in a raffle to win a digital copy of one of the books discussed.
All sessions are FREE and open to the public thanks to our sponsor, eKeeper. Registration is required.
The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can’t Stop Talking About
By Mel Robbins
Discussion facilitated by our very own- Mitch Isaacs
September 16, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Muncie Library Kennedy Branch
1700 W McGalliard Rd
Virtual Workshop 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, September 17 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Session #2: Thursday, September 18 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Ever get tired of those around you denying their
Session #1:
Wednesday, September 17
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Session #2:
Thursday, September 18
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Ever get tired of those around you denying their role in an incident, pointing fingers at others as to why something happened, or feeling people are just waiting to see if someone else will take care of the mess? Learn practical ways to stop these behaviors while holding yourself and others accountable.
Research proves that employers and employees both place a high value on trust. How do you keep yourself, and others, on track? Do you willingly accept responsibility for your actions and decisions? Learn how to articulate expectations and take ownership of how you fulfill them. A team that is accountable, is a team that is high performing.
Susan Rozzi (pronounced Row Z) is the president and owner of Rozzi & Associates, a leadership and organizational development firm. She has a passion for unleashing the potential for greatness in good leaders and believes each person has a unique way of leading. Susan is a leadership coach focusing on leadership development, emotional intelligence insight and career management. Each of her programs starts with the premise that great leadership skills are a product of time, practice and focused development. What makes Susan different is her observant approach and ability to speak grace with her candor. Rozzi graduated from DePauw University and earned an MBA from Indiana University. She is certified in EQi-2.0 and EQ 360 (emotional intelligence assessment) and DiSC, a Certified Real Colors (temperament assessment) facilitator, and a Certified John C. Maxwell coach, trainer and speaker.
September 17, 2025 2:00 pm - September 18, 2025 3:30 pm
Led by: MeChelle Callen REimagine your approach to time away from work Time-off policies do more than manage calendars—they reflect culture, values, and care. In this session, we’ll explore how inclusive
Led by: MeChelle Callen
Time-off policies do more than manage calendars—they reflect culture, values, and care. In this session, we’ll explore how inclusive and creative flexible scheduling and time-off strategies can strengthen well-being, foster equity, and support employee engagement across all life stages. From menstrual leave to pawternity and nomad work, we’ll examine practices that go beyond the traditional and create workplaces where people feel seen, supported, and valued. You’ll leave with fresh ideas, proven examples, and actionable next steps to reimagine your approach to time away from work and how your employees work.
Eastern Indiana Works provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a free service to our clients.
Workshops are designed to enhance your marketability and improve your skill-set.
Please register within 24 hours of workshop time.
September 25, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
♦ In-Person Programs | more about in-person
♦ Virtual Programs | more about virtual
♦ Special Programs | check program details
Coffee Talks / Early Risers are free for SLA Members
$50 non-members, $30 non-profits
Lunch & Learns are free for SLA Members
$80 non-members, $60 non-profits
Workshops are free for SLA Members
$250 for non-members, $200 for non-profits
Signature Programs are more expensive than other program formats. SLA Member discounts are typically available.
Special Programs are offered throughout the year and are often free of charge.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Interested in facilitating for SLA?
Submit a Proposal or Learn More.
August
In-Person 3 Hour Session Life isn’t just about the finish line…it’s about HOW you run the race. We’ve been taught to measure success by how fast we move, how much
We’ve been taught to measure success by how fast we move, how much we accomplish, and how well we keep up. But what if the real win isn’t about running harder—but running smarter? This interactive session is for anyone who’s tired of feeling like they’re on a treadmill with no off-switch.
Through practical tools, unexpected insights, and real talk, we’ll explore how to shift out of autopilot and reclaim control over your time, energy, and outlook. You’ll walk away with new ways to define success that actually fuel you—not drain you. This isn’t about checking out—it’s about tuning in to what really matters so you can lead, live, and work with more clarity and satisfaction.
Participants will leave with:
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $250 non-member. $200 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Erika Bayh stands at the helm of “The Extraordinary In You,” an organization that provides vibrant partnerships and facilitated experiences designed to ignite and unleash the extraordinary in individuals, teams, and projects. She is a master facilitator, inspirational coach, growth trainer, curriculum designer, and strategic partner with over thirty years of expertise in igniting the personal and professional growth in individuals and organizations. Erika recently left her decades-long stead with the NYC-based Leadership Program, where she was responsible for overseeing the programmatic growth of one of the city’s largest afterschool programs, designed ongoing professional development trainings for staff of the NYC DOE as well as educators around the country, and spearheaded the creation of leadership curricula honored by CASEL, OJJDP, SAMHSA, and more.
Erika is also an adjunct professor, currently instructing students at Ball State University in Indiana on an undergraduate course she created, “An Introduction to Youth Work,” designed to provide a comprehensive introduction to the diverse realm of youth work. She is the author of the interactive personal growth journal, “On Wings & Whimsy: Finding the Extraordinary in the Ordinary,” as well as the deck of cards, “52 Ways to Connect,” designed for leaders to strengthen their team time.
August 21, 2025 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Virtual 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, August 27th 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST Session #2: Thursday, August 28th 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST This workshop provides an opportunity for leaders to
Session #1:
Wednesday, August 27th
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST
Session #2:
Thursday, August 28th
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST
This workshop provides an opportunity for leaders to learn & practice giving and receiving different types of feedback, keeping in mind the intersection of various inclusion concepts. We utilize the SBI model, elaborating on nuances for positive, negative, and collaborative feedback and we cover concepts such as bias, power, microaggressions, and system. The majority of this session is spent in breakouts, practicing with real life scenarios.
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $250 non-member. $200 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Lillian Forsyth is an accomplished coach and workshop facilitator specializing in communication, leadership, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. With a background in Operations and Human Resources across both for-profit and nonprofit sectors, Lillian brings a unique perspective shaped by her extensive experience living and working internationally. As a straight white woman, she has dedicated over 20 years to examining her own privileges and biases, critically engaging with the complex role that white women have historically played in justice and equity movements. Lillian is the Co-Founder and CEO of Lead with Equity, where she partners with organizations to foster inclusive cultures. Her work has impacted audiences at prominent corporate entities like Google, Santander US Bank, and RWJBarnabas Health. She has also presented at respected academic institutions, including the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and Barnard College. As a guest on podcasts such as Embrace the Pivot and Agency for Change, and a speaker at conferences like the American Society of Project Management Professionals, Lillian shares insights to support meaningful change in leadership and DEI practices.
August 27, 2025 2:00 pm - August 28, 2025 3:30 pm
September
Engage. Connect. Create. The Art of Virtual Facilitation is designed to help you lead online sessions that are engaging, focused, and dynamic. Whether you’re guiding a team meeting, training,
The Art of Virtual Facilitation is designed to help you lead online sessions that are engaging, focused, and dynamic. Whether you’re guiding a team meeting, training, or group discussion, this workshop will equip you with the tools and techniques to create meaningful virtual experiences. You’ll explore how to manage energy and attention, use interactive tools with purpose, and show up with presence and confidence in a digital space. *This is workshop number three in our facilitation/speaking series of 2025.
1. Learn strategies to increase focus and participation in a group setting
2. Discover how to utilize diverse virtual tools for interactive engagement
3. Boost your presence and savviness as a confident virtual facilitator
Cost: Free for SLA Members. $50 non-member. $30 nonprofits.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Eilis (A-lish) Wasserman is the Program Director at Shafer Leadership Academy focused on overseeing impactful leadership development programming and creating innovative opportunities for Shafer members. She has a background as a career coach and facilitator, dedicated to cultivating confidence and inspiring self-discovery. She is an introvert and early career professional advocate, empowering introverts to hone their unique strengths and develop their own career stories. Eilis believes the most valuable skill that you can learn, and practice is the art of connecting- it’s all about telling our story. Eilis is a freelance coach on The Muse and has worked as a career coach with Ball State University and the University of Michigan. Eilis looks forward to working with you to present your best self wherever you may be in your career journey.
September 4, 2025 8:00 am - 9:30 am
In-person Lunch & Learn Today, we are living in a world where disagreement reigns and people are divided. A chasm is widening between us and them, where everyone picks a side
Today, we are living in a world where disagreement reigns and people are divided. A chasm is widening between us and them, where everyone picks a side and tries to win at the expense of others. Why is this happening? Too many leaders are taking the low road with others. They do what serves themselves best. They take from others without giving anything back. This workshop will guide you how to avoid the low and middle roads and take the high road in your leadership.
Casey Ash is a leadership development trainer with 12 years of experience leading team and personal development workshops. She is a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team member and Certified Working Genius Facilitator who uses workshops to help people and teams discover their gifts and reach their potential. She also holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Dayton School of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Business from Indiana University. Personal development has been life-changing for her, and she is passionate about sharing this with others.
September 9, 2025 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
2025tue16sep2:00 pm3:00 pmOff the Shelf- The Let Them TheoryIN-PERSON DISCUSSION2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Read a book. Lead with inspiration. SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways
SLA in partnership with Muncie Public Library is offering a unique quarterly gathering, highlighting important take-aways from inspirational leadership books. At each event, facilitators will share key leadership development lessons from leadership-focused books. This is not a book club, rather a guided discussion around the key takeaways from each book.
Prior reading of the book is not required but we encourage participants to share about what they learned and check-out one of the books from Muncie Public Library. All participants attending will be entered in a raffle to win a digital copy of one of the books discussed.
All sessions are FREE and open to the public thanks to our sponsor, eKeeper. Registration is required.
The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can’t Stop Talking About
By Mel Robbins
Discussion facilitated by our very own- Mitch Isaacs
September 16, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Muncie Library Kennedy Branch
1700 W McGalliard Rd
Virtual Workshop 2-Part Series Session #1: Wednesday, September 17 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Session #2: Thursday, September 18 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Ever get tired of those around you denying their
Session #1:
Wednesday, September 17
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Session #2:
Thursday, September 18
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Ever get tired of those around you denying their role in an incident, pointing fingers at others as to why something happened, or feeling people are just waiting to see if someone else will take care of the mess? Learn practical ways to stop these behaviors while holding yourself and others accountable.
Research proves that employers and employees both place a high value on trust. How do you keep yourself, and others, on track? Do you willingly accept responsibility for your actions and decisions? Learn how to articulate expectations and take ownership of how you fulfill them. A team that is accountable, is a team that is high performing.
Susan Rozzi (pronounced Row Z) is the president and owner of Rozzi & Associates, a leadership and organizational development firm. She has a passion for unleashing the potential for greatness in good leaders and believes each person has a unique way of leading. Susan is a leadership coach focusing on leadership development, emotional intelligence insight and career management. Each of her programs starts with the premise that great leadership skills are a product of time, practice and focused development. What makes Susan different is her observant approach and ability to speak grace with her candor. Rozzi graduated from DePauw University and earned an MBA from Indiana University. She is certified in EQi-2.0 and EQ 360 (emotional intelligence assessment) and DiSC, a Certified Real Colors (temperament assessment) facilitator, and a Certified John C. Maxwell coach, trainer and speaker.
September 17, 2025 2:00 pm - September 18, 2025 3:30 pm
September
Led by: Eilis Wasserman Let’s talk about connecting- Networking, is the most important career and life skill you can learn. Whether you are looking for a job, looking into
Led by: Eilis Wasserman
Let’s talk about connecting- Networking, is the most important career and life skill you can learn. Whether you are looking for a job, looking into expand your influence at work or in the community, building social capital can make a significant impact in our lives and the lives of others. In this workshop, we’ll discuss how to build relationships with like-minded people and share your value.
Eastern Indiana Works provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a free service to our clients.
Workshops are designed to enhance your marketability and improve your skill-set.
Please register within 24 hours of workshop time. This is a virtual workshop.
September 12, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Led by: MeChelle Callen REimagine your approach to time away from work Time-off policies do more than manage calendars—they reflect culture, values, and care. In this session, we’ll explore how inclusive
Led by: MeChelle Callen
Time-off policies do more than manage calendars—they reflect culture, values, and care. In this session, we’ll explore how inclusive and creative flexible scheduling and time-off strategies can strengthen well-being, foster equity, and support employee engagement across all life stages. From menstrual leave to pawternity and nomad work, we’ll examine practices that go beyond the traditional and create workplaces where people feel seen, supported, and valued. You’ll leave with fresh ideas, proven examples, and actionable next steps to reimagine your approach to time away from work and how your employees work.
Eastern Indiana Works provides these sessions, in partnership with Shafer Leadership Academy, as a free service to our clients.
Workshops are designed to enhance your marketability and improve your skill-set.
Please register within 24 hours of workshop time.
September 25, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
August
Session Description: In today’s competitive labor market, cultivating a strong and sustainable talent pipeline is essential for nonprofit success. This session, led by professionals from local and state workforce agencies,
Session Description:
In today’s competitive labor market, cultivating a strong and sustainable talent pipeline is essential for nonprofit success. This session, led by professionals from local and state workforce agencies, explores how service learning can be leveraged to address both immediate organizational needs and long-term workforce development goals. Participants will learn how to partner with educational institutions, workforce development boards, and community programs to create meaningful service learning opportunities that not only enhance organizational capacity but also introduce potential future employees to the nonprofit sector. This session will offer real-world examples, practical tools, and insights from workforce professionals who understand how service learning can drive recruitment, retention, and mission alignment.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Cost: $25
Ashley Williams is the Vice President of Talent Development with the Greater Muncie Chamber of Commerce in Muncie, Indiana. She completed her undergraduate degree from Ball State University and earned a master’s degree in public administration with a concentration on non-profit leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Prior to joining the Chamber team, Ashley served on the senior leadership team at the Youth Opportunity Center, providing oversight of residential treatment programs. She most recently worked at Eastern Indiana Works, a regional workforce development board, strengthening her understanding of the current and future needs of the local workforce. Ashley has found her current role with the Chamber allows her to blend her passion for empowering young people with her love of aiding in the development of our future workforce. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, Ashley is a skilled collaborator who takes pride in her ability to build strong partnerships that drive meaningful connections throughout the community.
Outside of work, Ashley values spending time with her family and volunteering for her church ministry. She is an advisory board member for TeenWorks and serves on the Board of Directors for Hillcroft Services.
Stefonie Sebastian is currently the Executive Director of Serve Indiana, the state service commission and division of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. Serve Indiana’s mission is to advance service and volunteerism by informing, connecting, and promoting opportunities and resources that enrich the lives of Hoosiers. This includes administering several programs and initiatives including AmeriCorps State Grants, Day of Service Grants and highlighting service to career pathways.Stefonie has spent the entirety of her career advancing service-learning and national service in schools and communities throughout Indiana and the country. Her passion for both grew while serving two years as an AmeriCorps*VISTA member, after earning her undergraduate degree from Brown University. Since then, she has had the pleasure of engaging others in service-learning opportunities through her work as the Learn and Serve Indiana Director, at the IN Department of Education and then as the Senior Service Engagement Specialist, at the National FFA Organization.
August 22, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
September
Managing a nonprofit’s mission means managing its money — but nonprofit accounting isn’t just business accounting with different vocabulary. It requires a unique understanding of fund restrictions, program allocations, compliance,
Managing a nonprofit’s mission means managing its money — but nonprofit accounting isn’t just business accounting with different vocabulary. It requires a unique understanding of fund restrictions, program allocations, compliance, and how to tell your financial story to donors, boards, and funders alike.
This 90-minute session will demystify the fundamentals of nonprofit accounting, helping you better understand the structure of nonprofit financial statements, how to track restricted vs. unrestricted funds, and what financial metrics really matter. Whether you’re new to financial oversight or seeking a better grasp of the numbers you report each month, this session will equip you with tools and insights to manage your mission with greater confidence and clarity.
Led by Dr. Ben Angelo, Assistant Professor of Accounting at Ball State University, this interactive session will blend clear explanation, hands-on examples, and practical tools designed for executive directors, board members, and emerging nonprofit leaders alike.
Learning Objectives:
Participants will be able to:
Cost: $25
Ben Angelo, assistant professor of accounting, earned his undergraduate and doctoral degrees from Purdue University. Ben has a unique and diverse professional background. Ben has worked as an auditor specializing in non-profits, he has worked in the treasury department at Purdue University, he has worked as a managerial accountant in the Office of the Provost at Purdue University, and he has performed tax and consulting work in his own practice.
Ben teaches government and non-profit accounting. Ben has previously taught managerial accounting at Purdue University, where he repeatedly won the “Distinguished Teaching” award. Ben incorporates his professional experience into the classroom to provide relevant and practical examples to students.
Ben’s research interests include academic and educational research. Ben is interested in how companies use voluntary disclosures to shape the market’s perception of firm performance. Ben is also interested in writing academic cases that engage students and provide the analytical skills they will need in order to be successful.
September 22, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
October
Session Description: In today’s mental health-aware workplace, leaders are called to embody both empathy and clarity—leading with heart and backbone. This 90-minute session offers practical tools and reflective dialogue to
Session Description:
In today’s mental health-aware workplace, leaders are called to embody both empathy and clarity—leading with heart and backbone. This 90-minute session offers practical tools and reflective dialogue to help leaders navigate the tension between compassion and accountability. Participants will explore how to set boundaries without losing connection, respond to emotional challenges with integrity, and foster a culture of psychological safety while maintaining clarity of expectations. Through vignettes, guided exercises, and peer exchange, leaders will leave with renewed confidence to lead with both courage and care.
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Cost: $25
Dr. Beth Trammell is a licensed psychologist, author, speaker and advocate for growth promotion. In addition to her clinical psychology practice, Dr. Trammell also serves as Professor of Psychology at Indiana University East as well as the university’s Director of the Master of Mental Health counseling program. She specializes in communication and behavioral strategies related to connection, parenting, coaching and education. Dr. Trammell’s years of clinical and practical experience perpetually influence the specialized trainings she leads throughout the country. Rooted on the premise of ‘Make Words Matter’, Dr. Trammell blends the science of psychology with our contemporary culture to illuminate everyday bias while sharing better ways of communicating for authentic and productive interpersonal connections.
October 17, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Coffee Talks / Early Risers are free for SLA Members, $50 non-members, $30 non-profits
Lunch & Learns are free for SLA Members, $80 non-members, $60 non-profits
Workshops are free for SLA Members, $250 for non-members, $200 for non-profits
Signature Programs are typically more expensive than other program formats.
Special Programs are offered throughout the year and are often free of charge.
Individuals who are either unemployed or connected with an employer who is unable to pay can request scholarships for any of our programs.
Interested in facilitating for Shafer Leadership Academy?
Submit a Proposal or Learn More.
I am grateful to the SLA for equipping the next generation of leaders with the tools, resources, and relationships they will need to move our community forward.
I still remember activities that we participated in and utilize the lessons I took away from the program years later.
Confident leaders and engaged board members make our community strong. That’s why it made sense to partner with Shafer Leadership Academy.
Work with a Shafer Leadership Advisor to build a custom program to fit your needs.
Do you need help creating a plan to develop and grow your people? Our leadership assessment will give you clarity about your biggest opportunities and next steps to align your teams.