Nonprofit Executives Network Grows in 2026

Leaders of local organizations build skills, expand support.

April 02, 2026

A group of nineteen adults pose and smile together indoors, with some seated on a white couch and others standing behind it. Large windows in the background let in daylight and show trees outside. — Nonprofit executives from Greater New Haven sharpened their leadership skills over four days in January, 2026. Katie Pellico Photo

In January 2026, twenty nonprofit leaders from across Greater New Haven stepped away from their day-to-day demands and came together for four days of learning, reflection and connection. At the Nonprofit Executive Leaders Institute (NELI) retreat, the directors shared challenges, tested ideas and built relationships with peers who understand the unique pressures of leading mission-driven organizations.

NELI equips new leaders with practical tools while fostering a network they can rely on long after the sessions end. This year, for the first time, alumni from the previous two cohorts joined the newest group, expanding the circle of support and deepening the sense of community.

The result is a growing network of leaders who are not only strengthening their own organizations, but also reinforcing the nonprofit sector across Greater New Haven.

“I cannot say this enough: the opportunity to participate is and will continue to be transformational,” says Ryan Paxton, director of the Eli Whitney Museum. “Beyond the wealth of knowledge our presenters provided, connections with other nonprofit leaders will be everlasting.”