Since 1991, the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation Sabbatical Program has honored leaders of nonprofit organizations in North Carolina for their dedicated service and commitment to the sector.

Three to six month sabbaticals offer individuals the opportunity to focus primarily on their personal needs and devote themselves to self-revitalization. The awarded compensation ($25,000) provides the financial support necessary for sabbatical recipients to temporarily leave their place of employment. Sabbatical recipients use this time to engage in non-professional development activities of their own choosing to aid in personal renewal and growth. While on hiatus, award recipients travel, study, read, reflect, rest, and/or explore interests unrelated to their field of work.  It is the Foundation’s hope that sabbatical recipients will return recommitted to the challenges and rewards of public service and thus prolong their tenure in the nonprofit sector.

Eligibility

Individuals in paid, full-time leadership positions, who have served their North Carolina nonprofit organizations for at least three years (two of which in a leadership role), are eligible to apply for a sabbatical. Preference is given to individuals with at least five years of experience with their organization. This program is not intended for career public school, college, university, or government employees.

Selection Criteria and Process

Five sabbatical recipients are selected annually based on a number of selection criteria, including the applicant’s professional accomplishments, evidence of the need for a sabbatical, potential for future contributions in his/her chosen field of work, and the difficulty of his/her work environment. 

Please consult the Sabbatical Program Frequently Asked Questions before applying.