Meet Hayley Freedman, CNP: Global Health Advocate and Educator

Hayley Freedman, MPH, CNP, has dedicated her life to uplifting communities and addressing global health inequities. From her early experience with AmeriCorps NCCC to her impactful work with the American Cancer Society, Hayley’s journey highlights the power of nonprofit work. “I’ve always led a life of service,” she shared. “My family was very service-oriented, and volunteering was always important to me.” 

In 2017, Hayley earned her Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) credential, a step that cemented her commitment to the nonprofit sector. Reflecting on this decision, she explained, “It’s not just a badge or title—it’s a unique skill set. The CNP credential gave me the tools I needed to run programs, manage grants, and navigate the complexities of nonprofit leadership.” 

Where It All Began

Hayley’s journey into the nonprofit sector began with AmeriCorps NCCC, where she worked with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and smaller grassroots nonprofits. “That experience gave me a clear understanding of how nonprofits, big and small, operate to achieve their missions,” she explained. 

Her expertise expanded during her Peace Corps service in Mozambique, where she served with international organizations like ICAP, CARE, and WWF. “It was inspiring to see these global nonprofits align their missions and work together to tackle complex challenges,” she said. “By the time I finished my service, I was certain that public health and nonprofit work would be my path forward.” 

Making Health Equity Personal

Hayley’s commitment to health equity became deeply personal when her mother was diagnosed with late-stage cancer. While balancing graduate studies overseas and caregiving responsibilities, she experienced firsthand the barriers to accessing quality care, even at a world-class cancer center in the United States. “That experience showed me what it really means to support someone through a health crisis,” she reflected, “and had me thinking about what it must be like for people in places with much fewer resources” 

Inspired by this experience, Hayley joined the American Cancer Society’s global team, contributing to efforts aimed at improving cancer care in low- and middle-income countries. “We supported partners in low resource settings with building systems and programs to better meet the needs and patients and families facing cancer,” she explained. Despite the team being small, their impact was substantial. “It was rewarding to see our efforts making a difference, even with limited resources.”  

A New Role as an Educator

Today, Hayley is taking a hiatus from her career to serve as a visiting professor at her alma mater, Willamette University, where she teaches public health in a new undergraduate program. “It’s a full-circle experience,” she shared. “The professor who inspired me to pursue global health invited me back to teach, and now I’m trying to be that same source of inspiration for my students.” 

As a professor, Hayley highlights the critical role of nonprofits in public health. “Nonprofits fill the gaps that governments can’t,” she explained. “Organizations like the American Cancer Society don’t just fund research, they connect people to resources and provide support when and where it’s needed most. I want my students to see the many ways they can make an impact, even if they don’t go into clinical careers.” 

The CNP Credential

For Hayley, earning her CNP credential was a pivotal step in her career. “The CNP program helped me build a strong foundation in nonprofit management and leadership,” she said. “It’s an investment that pays off, not just in your career but in your ability to create meaningful change.” 

She also valued the opportunity to connect with other nonprofit professionals. “I remember attending the Alliance Management Institute conference and realizing the power of this community,” she recalled. “It was inspiring to meet a group of people who shared my passion for making the world a better place.” 

For those considering the CNP, Hayley offers this advice: “If you have a passion for making a difference, the CNP program will give you the tools and confidence to turn that passion into action. It’s a credential that opens doors and equips you to lead.” 

Are you ready to make an impact like Hayley? The CNP credential might be your next step! 

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