In the Spring 2026 semester, Middlesex Community College will debut the new Community Leadership Certificate. The program includes academic courses and a paid internship over the summer at an approved Lowell nonprofit organization. Students will have the opportunity to network with leaders in the community while gaining valuable skills and experience.
“The certificate is geared toward passionate and caring students who want to make a real difference in any of a number of areas that are of interest to them – food sustainability, children, fair housing, LGBTQIA+ history and more,” said Jill Keller, MCC’s Chair of the English Department. “Students will learn about leadership, social movements, practical skills like public speaking and ethics, and benefit from meeting Lowell community leaders who are doing the work that improves people’s lives locally.”
While working toward a degree in their program of study, the certificate will allow students to gain leadership and advocacy skills. The certificate is an option for students studying History, Politics and Global Studies; Liberal Studies; Liberal Arts and Sciences; Literature; Health Science Career or Transfer, and Public Health.
MCC students enrolled in one of the seven programs should not have to take extra courses to complete the certificate. If necessary, the college will cover the cost for students who qualify for free community college.
“This certificate was started by Dr. John Reiff at the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education,” Keller said. “Community college students across the state will gain leadership skills, experiential learning, and opportunities to become leaders for positive change in their local communities.”
The centerpiece course for the certificate is History and Practice of Community Leadership and Organizing. Professor Michael Cermak will teach the class from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the Spring 2026 semester.
As part of the class, students will dive into the history, theories and practices of community leadership and examine major social movements. They will also collaborate with local nonprofits and engage in strategic discussions with community leaders.
“Students will explore a community-centered organization of their choosing to understand the diversity of approaches in community work,” Cermak said. “They will eventually interview the leaders and staff of these organizations to hear firsthand accounts of the highlights and challenges of working for community empowerment. The course culminates in an event that will celebrate the work of the local organizations and highlight their upcoming initiatives."
After completing the course, students are eligible to take on a paid internship. Students can work up to 150 hours for $20 an hour for a total of $3,000 between May and August. Completing the certificate may help students later move into nonprofit or local government jobs.
“Our new Community Leadership certificate is designed for people who want to enhance their degree or advance in their career with the ability to elevate their leadership abilities and improve their strategies for making a positive, lasting impact on their communities,” said Matt Hurwitz, MCC’s Dean of Liberal Arts. “We need people who can lead at the community level now more than ever – and the opportunities for people who can do this are everywhere, and urgent.”