A Letter from LANO President & CEO Ann S. Williamson

Dear LANO Friends and Supporters,

We are pleased to share news of an important development in LANO's continuing work to improve accountability and raise the standard of excellence for Louisiana's nonprofit sector.

As you know, nonprofits are essential to the vitality of communities, and public confidence is essential to the success of the nonprofit sector. High performing nonprofits that attain this confidence are those that effectively demonstrate sound management principles and business practices.

Leading the way, along with only a few state nonprofit associations, LANO implemented the Louisiana Standards for Excellence certification program ten years ago. We congratulate the achievements and dedication of our 55 seal holders, as they demonstrate excellence in nonprofit management and accountability.

After a comprehensive evaluation, LANO is redeveloping an approach to leadership in nonprofit excellence and will no longer administer the Standards for Excellence® program.

All current and prospective Seal holders will have the opportunity to continue their display of the Seal of Excellence and participate in this program through its originator, the National Standards for Excellence Institute.

This month we launch a planning process with a diverse advisory task force, engaging representatives from currently certified nonprofits, experts in nonprofit management and governance, and key stakeholders in the foundation, public and private sectors. The purpose of the task force is to develop a path to distinction and excellence for Louisiana nonprofits.

As a top strategic priority for LANO and our Board in 2011, we are excited to develop this core set of accountability principles and management practices while providing leadership, service and tools to Louisiana nonprofits that ensure excellence and sustainability. We believe that given the right tools and training, all Louisiana nonprofits can attain the public's confidence and support.

We invite your input and feedback as we engage in this process. If you have questions, comments or suggestions, we welcome your calls and emails to Kellie Chavez Greene at 504.309.2081 ext. 316 or via email at kelliegreene@lano.org. Thank you for your collaboration and support.

Best regards,

Ann Silverberg Williamson

President & CEO

Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations (LANO)