Non-Profit Professional Director (NPPD) Designation Program

Program Overview

The Non-Profit Professional Director (NPPD) Designation Program is a professional development series designed to build highly effective nonprofit and NGO board leaders. Offered by the Centre for Excellence in Organizational Governance in partnership with the University of Sudbury’s Leadership & Governance Academy, this program provides rigorous, academic-quality training for board officers and directors and executives in the nonprofit sector. It is aimed at current and aspiring board directors of nonprofits, charities, public institutions, and NGOs who seek to elevate their governance skills and earn a recognized credential attesting to their expertise. Similar to established director education programs (such as the Institute of Corporate Directors’ ICD.D designation and the NACD Directorship Certification), the NPPD program delivers comprehensive governance content to ensure participants develop the core competencies of an effective board professional that contribute in a not for profit organization. 

The curriculum emphasizes practical knowledge of fiduciary duties, strategy, financial oversight, and ethical leadership – equipping graduates to be impactful and effective board members who understand how to lead and contribute to their organization’s success. Earning an NPPD designation signals a strong commitment to governance excellence and continuous learning in the nonprofit realm, akin to how corporate director credentials represent a lifelong commitment to boardroom excellence. All courses are taught by experienced governance experts through the University, ensuring a professional and academically robust learning experience grounded in the latest best practices.