IOM Graduate Recognition

The Institute for Organization Management program is designed to enhance individual performance, elevate professional standards, and recognize association, chamber of commerce, and other nonprofit professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of nonprofit management.

The IOM graduate recognition was created in 2004 to provide a simple, at-a-glance indication for peers and the general public to identify those who have completed Institute’s comprehensive course of study in the fundamentals of the nonprofit profession. It stands as a mark of achievement and reflects the dedication it takes to manage a nonprofit organization in today’s ever-changing environment.

Once a candidate has earned the recognition, there are no upkeep requirements. While graduates are encouraged to attend Institute’s Graduate Elective Program to continue earning credit hours, the Institute program does not require them to do so.

Guidelines for Using the IOM Graduate Recognition

The IOM graduate recognition provides recognition of those who have completed the Institute for Organization Management program, and to provide a standard way for graduates to communicate their accomplishment in correspondence, meeting rosters, nametags, business cards, public mention, and on their resume.

Every Institute graduate is eligible to use the IOM graduate recognition and to use the letters “IOM” after their name (e.g., Jane Smith, IOM).

When discussed in a resume, bio, or article, the achievement should be referred to as “IOM graduate recognition” (e.g., Jane Smith was awarded the IOM graduate recognition for completing a comprehensive course of study in nonprofit management through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organization Management program.)

Frequently Asked Questions

I graduated Institute prior to 2004 and therefore, prior to the IOM graduate recognition. What do I need to do to qualify?
The IOM graduate recognition was automatically conferred to graduates of Institute beginning in January 2004. Graduates from earlier Institute programs may also use the IOM graduate recognition after submitting their current contact information.

I began Institute but did not graduate. Does my past participation count toward the IOM graduate recognition?
Yes, you may apply your past credit hours toward the IOM graduate recognition. Contact the Institute office at 202-463-5570 or iom@uschamber.com for more information.

I hold a professional certification in addition to having graduated Institute. Can I use both sets of initials?
Yes, you are encouraged to use all of your certifications and recognitions (e.g., Jane Smith, IOM, CAE).

How is the IOM graduate recognition related to professional certifications such as the CAE or CCE?
The IOM graduate recognition is an indication that the recipient has completed Institute’s comprehensive course of study in the fundamentals of association, chamber, and nonprofit management. Professional certifications, including CAE and CCE, serve as marks of distinction for those who have completed professional development classes, passed an examination, and/or met other stringent requirements.