Sharon Montgomery, IOM, Events Director and Lisa Ferrell, IOM, Communications & Public Policy Director both have graduated from Institute for Organization Management (Institute), a four-year nonprofit leadership training program. 

“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their communities,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”

Since 1921, Institute has attracted association and chamber professionals from across the country to its five university sites. During the four-years, most Institute participants attend the one-week sessions at the same site, building valuable relationships with others in the industry. Through a combination of required courses and electives, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.

“Institute provides the most comprehensive professional development available in our profession,” said Perry Webb, IOM, CCE, president and CEO of the Springdale (AR) Chamber of Commerce and chairman of the Institute Board of Trustees. “The program allows attendees to share today’s best practices in an ever changing economic environment.”

Graduates of Institute receive the IOM recognition, signifying completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management. In addition, participants can earn points toward the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or Certified Association Executive (CAE) certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals attend Institute annually.

Institute is a 501(c) (3) affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is the premier nonprofit professional development program for nonprofit professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.