About the Center for Nonprofit Excellence

Supporting Nonprofits with Education, Leadership & Strategy

The Center for Nonprofit Excellence (CNE) exists to strengthen the people and organizations serving Elkhart County. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, serving on a board, or growing into your next leadership role, we’re here to support your success.

Led by Kevin Deary, Director of Professional & Organizational Development, CNE offers practical education, peer connection, and strategic guidance to nonprofit professionals at all levels. From one-on-one coaching to facilitated roundtables and hands-on workshops, our support is designed to help you lead well—and help your organization thrive.

CNE is supported by the Fund for Excellence, which was created with and funded by the generous contributions of Lilly Endowment Inc. and Elkhart County philanthropists to strengthen nonprofits in our community.

From The Learning Center to CNE

What began as The Learning Center (TLC) has grown into something much more. Established to offer nonprofit training and professional development, TLC built a strong foundation of workshops, CEO roundtables, and an annual retreat. Today, that work continues through CNE—alongside expanded offerings like executive searches, leadership coaching, strategic planning, and board development.

Our new name reflects that growth and the wider scope of what we offer to nonprofits in the South Bend-Elkhart Region that serve Elkhart County or nearby areas.

Kevin Deary

Kevin Deary
Director of Professional & Organizational Development
[email protected]
(574) 295-8761