Thinking about the Future of Your Church: Scenario Planning Post-Pandemic
An Online Class
DATES
Nov. 9 - Dec. 11, 2020
OVERVIEW
In this course we will learn about, and practice with, a method for preparing to engage the future called scenario planning. Scenario planning works well when you want to consider what your church, non-profit, etc. might look like 3-10 years into the future, usually beyond any current strategic plan you may be implementing. Scenario planning helps to reduce the uncertainly and lower the risk for organizations. It also provides a way to dream about new ways of doing things. As organizations begin to consider what they will look like after the COVID-19 pandemic is over, scenario planning can be a powerful tool to engage as a next step.
This course has three primary learning outcomes:
- To gain a basic understanding of the key concepts in scenario planning.
- To practice some of the techniques and methods of scenario planning.
- To explore the link between scenario planning and strategic planning.
INSTRUCTOR
Jim Downey is a senior strategy consultant for Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. He most recently served as the vice president for planning and institutional effectiveness at PTS as part of a 30-year career in higher education.
Jim consults with colleges, universities, and non-profit organizations and teaches various online courses, including introductory physics. He also works with the Society of College and University Planning as a professional development facilitator. Additionally, Jim is active in a variety of capacities including anti-racism work as both a workshop facilitator and presenter and serving on the board of Bridge to the Mountains, a non-profit assisting people through street medicine and related services. Jim holds a graduate degree in nuclear physics from the Air Force Institute of Technology and a doctorate in aerospace engineering from the University of Illinois. He also was a fellow at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Jim has broad background in national security policy, systems thinking, organizational theory and culture, change management, strategic & facilities planning, higher education administration, and institutional effectiveness.
REGISTRATION
The fee for this class is $100. Registration deadline: Oct. 25, 2020.
Registration is limited to 15 students.
CEUs
1.0 CEUs are available to students who successfully complete this class. To receive a certificate, e-mail .
QUESTIONS
E-mail or call 412-924-1345.