One of the greatest leaders setting examples of business success, community involvement, and leadership development in 2026 is Dr. April Willis.
Dr. Willis is the Founder of April Willis Consulting (AWC) and the National Nonprofit Collaborative (NNC). She works with organizations and professionals across the United States, supporting businesses, startups, nonprofit organizations, and individuals with practical strategies that help them reach meaningful goals. Alongside consulting, she continues to expand her work through executive search, book publishing, leadership coaching, and professional speaking.
Her experience reflects years of leadership. Dr. Willis holds a doctorate and three master’s degrees. She has served in education at the campus, district, and state levels while building a consulting firm that now includes experts from across the country.
Executive Search Has Become a Growing Area of Impact
One of the fastest-growing parts of AWC has been executive search and placement.
Over the past year, the company has completed dozens of executive searches for C-suite and director-level positions across the country. Strong leadership can influence an organization’s direction for years. Finding the right person requires understanding culture, leadership style, and organizational goals.
This expanding part of AWC enables businesses and nonprofits to recruit leaders who fit both the position and the mission they will help guide.
Supporting Authors Beyond the First Draft
Another area that has grown significantly is book editing and publishing.
During the past year, April Willis Consulting helped publish five books for clients nationwide. Many professionals have valuable knowledge to share but need experienced guidance through editing, publishing, and preparing a manuscript for readers.
This service gives business leaders, educators, and nonprofit professionals another way to share ideas and strengthen their professional visibility.
Making Nonprofit Resources More Accessible
Dr. Willis also founded the National Nonprofit Collaborative to help nonprofit leaders spend less time on administrative tasks and more time serving their communities.
The membership platform offers templates, operational resources, guidebooks, webinars, and educational materials created by nonprofit professionals. Members also have opportunities to publish articles, participate in professional learning, and connect with peers across the sector.
The Collaborative maintains affordable pricing with new resources being added regularly. It was created for organizations that may not have the budget to hire consultants but still need reliable operational support.
Sharing Experience Through Public Speaking
Professional speaking is an important part of Dr. Willis’ work.
Since beginning her speaking career in 2013, she has delivered keynote presentations, workshops, conference talks, and leadership events across various industries. She draws on her extensive experience in education, business, nonprofit leadership, entrepreneurship, and organizational development.
Recently, she spoke at the Annual AFP DFW Conference on “Re-engaging Lapsed Donors: Effective Strategies to Reignite Support,” representing the NNC.
“Public Speaking has also been a very rewarding part of my offerings,” she says, expressing her excitement at her travel plans for more public speaking events.
Community Leadership Extends Beyond Business
Dr. Willis believes leadership should reach beyond the workplace.
She recently completed her term as President of the Southlake Rotary Club and now serves as the organization’s Programs Chair through June 2027. She is also beginning her tenure as Treasurer for the Southlake Women’s Club, remains active with the Southlake Chamber of Commerce, and serves on the Board of Timarron Country Club.
Community service also includes a special volunteer commitment with Kingsley, her certified therapy dog. Throughout the upcoming school year, they will visit elementary schools each week, allowing students to read to Kingsley in a supportive environment.
Recognition That Reflects Consistent Leadership
Dr. Willis’s work has earned recognition across business and professional communities.
She was recently named to the Longhorn 100 for the second consecutive year. She was also selected as the #1 Business Consultant in the Southlake Style Awards.
Her leadership continues through the Forbes Coaches Council, where she has remained a member for five years. She also leads the Forbes Nonprofit Coaches Group for the second consecutive year, contributing to conversations around leadership, coaching, and nonprofit success.
Looking Ahead With Purpose
April Willis Consulting continues to expand its reach while staying focused on personalized service. Executive search, consulting, publishing, coaching, and nonprofit support all aim to help organizations and leaders make thoughtful decisions that create lasting progress.
Combined with active community involvement and a commitment to service, Dr. April Willis continues to show how experienced leadership can strengthen businesses, nonprofits, and the communities they serve.
