Escape to the Smokies for an Exclusive CEO Retreat!
Tennessee Nonprofit Network invites its CEO members to a rejuvenating retreat in the heart of Gatlinburg this June 5th and 6th. Designed exclusively for executive directors and CEOs of 501(c)3 organizations, this two-day experience offers a unique blend of learning and fellowship amidst the scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
Gather with your peers at the Gatlinburg Convention Center for enriching workshops led by leadership expert Dr. Bev Vitali of Christian Brothers University Institute for Leadership Development. Engage in thought-provoking discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s nonprofit leaders, and forge valuable connections with colleagues who understand your unique perspective.
Day One: Elevating Nonprofit Leadership: Harnessing Strengths and Igniting Engagement + Tour of Arrowmont + Dinner at Anakeesta
This dynamic leadership lab empowers nonprofit CEOs to revolutionize their leadership approach by focusing on strengths-based leadership and employee engagement. Participants will discover how to identify and leverage their own strengths and those of their team members, leading to more effective delegation and enhanced organizational performance. The workshop also delves into the critical issue of employee engagement, providing concrete strategies to motivate and inspire teams. Through interactive exercises and practical tools, leaders will learn to create a work environment that maximizes individual talents and fosters high levels of engagement. This comprehensive approach equips nonprofit executives with the skills to build resilient, motivated teams and drive their organizations toward greater impact and success.
When the day of learning is over, prepare for exclusive excursions for our group for a tour of historic Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts followed by an evening reception on top of a mountain at Anakeesta! Anakeesta is an award-winning adventure park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offering a variety of outdoor activities for all ages. It’s located in the heart of Gatlinburg, providing stunning views of the Smoky Mountains National Park. Here are some of the key features and activities at Anakeesta:
- Chondola Ride: A scenic ride that takes you from downtown Gatlinburg to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain. You can choose between an enclosed gondola cabin or an open-air chairlift.
- Treetop Skywalk: A series of 16 connected bridges that hang 50-60 feet above the forest floor, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding nature.
- AnaVista Tower: The highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, offering 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and beyond.
- Rail Runner Mountain Coaster: A thrilling single-rail mountain coaster that takes you on a fast-paced ride through the trees.
- Vista Gardens: A beautiful botanical garden with over 3,000 plants, flowers, and sculptures.
- Astra Lumina at Anakeesta is the 15th experience in the Lumina Enchanted Night Walk series, and the very first in the United States. Learn more here.
- Dining and Shopping: Several restaurants and shops offer a variety of food, drinks, and souvenirs.
Anakeesta is donating two of their Ridge Rambler shuttles ready to pick up our group at 4:45 PM from the Convention Center and take you to Arrowmont for a tour at 5:00 PM. After that, the shuttles will head to the park at 6:00 PM, where they’ll drop everyone off at the event location. After dinner, you will have the chance to explore Astra Lumina and the park under the stars. Guests who want to spend more time exploring can certainly “dine and dash.” The park closes at 10:00 PM, and guests can leave on their own via the chairlift or the Ridge Ramblers. General admission into the park, admission to Astra Lumina, dinner, and coaster passes are included for participants!
Day Two: Navigating Chaos: Nonprofit Leadership in a VUCA World
This intensive half-day leadership lab immerses nonprofit executives in the Patient-Zero simulation—an award-winning exercise where participants navigate a fictional zombie apocalypse as advisors to a country of their creation. The simulation illustrates the Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA) that characterizes today’s nonprofit landscape. Participants establish their country’s values before facing an escalating crisis requiring complex ethical decisions with limited information and time pressure.
Throughout the simulation, leaders must balance competing priorities, manage scarce resources, and prevent organizational collapse while making consequential decisions with uncertain outcomes. Upon conclusion, participants receive feedback on their country’s infection rates, public morale, and stability.
A structured debrief connects this experience to real VUCA challenges nonprofits face—from funding volatility to mission evolution in changing political landscapes. Through discussion, participants analyze their decision-making, team dynamics, and leadership approaches, developing concrete strategies to build institutional resilience.
This retreat is an investment in yourself and your organization. For $499 per person*, you’ll gain fresh insights, renew your passion, and return to your work with a revitalized sense of purpose.
*Breakfast, lunch, and excursions are included in the price; Hotel stay not included.
Space is limited for this members-only event, so REGISTER TODAY!
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