Albuquerque Public Schools
Foundation Executive Director Earns Prestigious Certification
Shannon Barnhill’s designation as Certified Education Foundation Leader is a first in N.M.
APS Education Foundation Executive Director Shannon Barnhill has earned a prestigious Certified Education Foundation Leader designation from the National Education Foundation Association – the first in New Mexico to do so.
Barnhill, who has headed the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization since 2017, called the accomplishment a “powerful milestone” for both the foundation and New Mexico’s education community.
“As education foundations nationwide are challenged to operate more efficiently and deliver meaningful results, the CEFL Certification ensures that the APS Education Foundation is equipped with the best practices and proven strategies,” she said.
The certification, which included months of off-the-clock coursework and a capstone project, is the only program of its kind exclusively designed for education foundation leaders and executives. Barnhill was part of a cohort that included 21 people from throughout the country.
The APS Education Foundation, which boasts a sizable community board of directors that includes district students, raises money and in-kind support for grant programs that promote innovation and engagement in the state’s largest school district. It is about to celebrate its 30th anniversary and has a goal of raising $1 million for its grant programs by 2030.
Barnhill has overseen the growth of the foundation, which hosts a variety of events to boost public education each year. Most notable are the fall Superintendent’s Cup and Gold Bar, which is scheduled for May 2 at Sandia Resort and Casino. Tickets can be purchased at APSeducationfoundation.org.