Course Detail: BUS502 - Strategic Thinking and Execution

This course is designed to support professionals working in a community-based setting who desire to develop their capacity as innovators, problem-solvers and effective community leaders.


Who Should Attend:
Non-profit organizations, community-based organizations working in the areas of human services, social services, or education-related settings.

Prerequisite: Prior experience working in a non-profit or community-based setting is recommended, but not required.


Strategic Thinking and Execution
Strategic thinking and execution are far more important within organizations than simply publishing a strategic plan. Participants will learn the importance of lateral thinking as a means of collaboratively analyzing organizational health and effectiveness of organizational programs around four areas: growth, systems and processes,finances, and governance. Moreover, participants will learn how to utilize lateral thinking to establish goals, develop strategy, identify key performance measures, create healthy accountability, and evaluate organizational impact.


Module 1: Lateral Thinking - Online

Module 2: Developing Goals and Strategy - Online

Module 3: Lagging & Leading Measures - Online


Student Testimonials:
"[The] instructor was excellent at encouraging students to share their experiences and provided a plethora of supportive materials. Additionally, he was incredibly supportive and modeled building trusting relationships and vulnerability. I really enjoyed the cohort and the opportunity for others to join a new track. The blended model allowed students to build relationships and the opportunity to meet new students." - Student


This program is offered fully online. Classes will be facilitated by a live instructor during the scheduled course times. Class sessions are not recorded. Several days prior to the start of your course, you will receive an email with information on connecting to the online sessions.

Participants should have a computer with a strong internet connection, a working microphone, and speakers. Students are required to utilize the camera and microphone to participate in this interactive class. Class participation enhances the online learning experience.

This course applies toward the PFW Applied Leadership Certificate. Take all four courses to earn the credential.


Dr. Brad Oliver serves as Program Coordinator for the Applied Leadership Certificate program. He serves as clinical Associate Professor of Educational Leadership in the School of Education at Purdue University Fort Wayne. Brad has an extensive background in K-12 education, public policy, social enterprise and non-profit management. In addition to teaching in higher education, Brad serves as a professional consultant to several northeast Indiana non-profit organizations, offering training in the areas of leadership development and strategic execution. He has over twenty-five years of experience serving as a board member and executive officer on several community and non-profit boards.






Available Sessions - Click on date(s) below.