(WNY News Now) – Diane Hewitt-Johnson, CEO of Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc., has been awarded the Certified Community Action Professional (CCAP) credential, recognizing her leadership and commitment to advancing community welfare.
Diane Hewitt-Johnson, Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc.’s CEO, recently achieved status as a Certified Community Action Professional (CCAP). Diane was among 112 CCAP graduates who were recognized in August 2024 at the National Community Action Partnership (NCAP) Annual Conference in Seattle, Washington. The CCAP credential recognizes those who demonstrate knowledge and application of the core competencies required to effectively carry out the vision, mission, purpose and values of the Community Action movement.
The process for earning certification consists of a period of study followed by a proctored, online exam and a rigorous, independent research and writing assignment on a specific topic. Candidates must pass both components to earn certification. Diane was able to earn the certification within six months, although candidates are allowed three years to complete it. Certification remains current for four years, during which time there is a requirement for continuing education.
Individuals pursuing the CCAP are provided with guidance in leading the Community Action Agency, positioning it to effectively serve the best interests of people in poverty. In addition to increasing her knowledge of community action practices and strengthening leadership skills, Diane’s aspirations include becoming a mentor for other community action professionals across the country.
Diane Hewitt-Johnson became the interim CEO of Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc. in 2018, followed by an appointment as CEO six months later. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Houghton College and a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership from Roberts Wesleyan College, where she also received the Distinguished Leadership Award. She completed an Associates in
Applied Science in Business Administration at Jamestown Community College. Diane currently serves on the Board of Directors of the nationwide organization CAPLAW (Community Action Program Legal Services, Inc.), and is the Vice-President on the Board of the NYS Community Action Association (NYSCAA).
COI has been in existence since 1965 and is the federally designated Community Action Agency (CAA) in Chautauqua County. It is one of over 1,100 Community Action Agencies across the country, including 47 in NY State. COI is tasked with providing innovative services to individuals and families to help them achieve economic security, while partnering with other agencies to ensure a comprehensive
approach is taken to deliver holistic services. The agency will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2025.