Adaptive Leadership

About the Program

All nonprofit organizations, specifically associations, are facing the turbulent and threatening world around us. As previously accepted social norms and societal structures fall away, leaders must think differently about how they respond to the ever-changing environment.

Despite the fact that change is a constant, the speed of change in today's era is unprecedented. The skills leaders need to successfully guide their organizations into the second half of the 21st century are data-reliant and must be honed for faster decision making.

Gone are the days when any organization can take months or even weeks to make decisions. As societal unrest continues, governments struggle to adapt, and the way people think changes at the speed of the internet, the adaptive leader is the one that will find that path forward.

Focusing on data-infused decision making, flexible governance structures, and agile implementation, this program is designed by leaders in the association management profession to prepare you and your team for what’s next.

Course Leaders

Rogue Tulips Consulting, in collaboration with Association ActiVision LLC and So Right LLC, presents an adaptive leadership program for the future-forward leader.


  • Expertise: Executive Search | Certification | Ethics | Governance

    Cheryl is the owner of So Right LLC (So Right It’s Ronk), a consulting firm that works with groups that have boards. Most of her work is with associations from local to international in scope and city governments. Cheryl is the former president and CEO of the Michigan Society of Association Executives. During her 30-year tenure, she led the organization to international recognition for its Certified Association Executive (CAE) training, Board development programs, the development and organization of the first association executive taxonomy, and successful executive search process. She currently is helping several clients improve their systems and working with current and future CAEs.  She is an ASAE Fellow. See Cheryl’s LinkedIn profile.


  • Expertise: Board Relations | Governance

    Michael is the founder of Association ActiVision, LLC, a bouquet consultancy focusing on governance and program restructuring, and strategic develop. He is a former association CEO at the state and national levels. Butera has made frequent presentations around the country. He currently serves on the Executive Board of the Howard County, Maryland NAACP and is the co-chair of the Maryland State Conference NAACP Technology Committee. He is active as a facilitator for BoomerWorks.org, an organization dedicated to helping older citizens transition from traditional W-2 work to 1099 freelancing. See Michael’s LinkedIn profile.

What you’ll get

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    Self-paced structure to learn and access the videos and materials on your own time.

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    Weekly office hours with the course leaders to review and discuss the content, held on Zoom.

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    All the materials you need to support your development, from videos, handouts, and hands-on exercises.

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    Exploring issues impacting association leaders RIGHT NOW.

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    Collaborate with other participants in the online community hosted on Association Marketplace.

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    Earn continuing education credits to maintain your credential as an association leader.

What’s inside

Module 1

Introduction to Adaptive Governance

Building the Foundation for Strategic Agility

Traditional governance models often fail to keep pace with emerging challenges in a rapidly changing world. This module introduces the principles of adaptive governance, helping association leaders shift from rigid structures to dynamic, responsive leadership models. Participants will explore how to balance stability with flexibility, align governance practices with organizational values, and lay the groundwork for decision-making that supports long-term success. By the end of this session, you’ll clearly understand what it takes to lead with adaptability and purpose.

Module 2

Implementing Agile Governance

From Framework to Action

Agile governance requires more than just a mindset—it demands action. In this module, participants will learn practical strategies for integrating agility into governance structures, decision-making processes, and stakeholder engagement. Through real-world case studies and interactive exercises, you’ll develop the skills to streamline board operations, enhance collaboration, and confidently navigate complexity. Walk away with an implementation roadmap tailored to your organization’s unique needs.

Module 3

Measuring & Sustaining Agile Governance

Ensuring Long-Term Impact and Adaptability

Sustained success in governance requires continuous assessment and refinement. This module focuses on measuring the effectiveness of agile governance models, identifying key performance indicators, and establishing a culture of ongoing improvement. Participants will explore tools and techniques for evaluating decision-making effectiveness, stakeholder alignment, and organizational resilience. By the end of this session, you’ll have the insights and strategies needed to sustain an adaptive governance approach that drives lasting success.

Limited Enrollment

Limited Enrollment

✺ Frequently asked questions ✺

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.

  • It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.