Student Information
Current Columbia MBA and EMBA students apply during the fall semester to participate in the Nonprofit Board Leadership Program, which runs throughout the academic year. Information about this program is circulated at student clubs association day, at an information session in September and via email.
Katie Aldrich ’09, Betsy Poirier ’08 and David Rosensweig ’08 react to a guest speaker’s presentation during the NBLP Kickoff at the Museum of the City of New York in September 28, 2007.
Frequently asked questions:
Can I find my own nonprofit to bring to the program? Yes. However this process must be conducted with direct coordination by Sandi Wright. The NBLP is always seeking new nonprofits to work with, however we must ensure uniformity to retain the integrity of the program.
Do I get to choose which nonprofit I work with? No. The application and selection process is designed to create the best matches possible based upon experience and areas of interest.
Is the program only for second years? No. The program accepts a smaller number of first years, who form approximately 15% of the total number of students participating each year.
Can I participate in the program as a first and second year? Yes and No. Many first years find their experience compelling and continue to work informally with the nonprofit during their second year. However, to accommodate as many students as possible, students who have been accepted as first years are not allowed to reapply and work with a different nonprofit during their second year.
If you would like to participate both years, you can apply for the program as a first year, and indicate that you’d like to run as an Assistant Vice President for the NBLP as part of the Social Enterprise Club leadership team. If elected, you would not be matched with a mentor during your first year, but form part of the leadership team of the NBLP, and assist with the management of the program. As a second year, you would participate in the program, and have the option of choosing which mentor/organization you would like to work with.
Can I apply as a second year if I am not accepted in my first year? Yes. Students who are not accepted as first years are strongly encouraged to apply again as second years receive priority. Unfortunately the program cannot match all interested students, and makes every attempt to form the best matches.
Can I help with other areas of the program? Yes. If you are interested in assisting with other areas of the program, please contact Sandi Wright to see what, if any, opportunities are available.
For more information, please contact Sandi Wright at sw2049 (AT) columbia (DOT) edu.
