Dr. April Willis: Bridging Strategy and Action in Consulting and Nonprofit Leadership
Dr. April Willis, the Founder and Lead Consultant of April Willis Consulting (AWC) and the Founder of the National Nonprofit Collaborative (NNC), has established a dynamic career dedicated to transforming plans into measurable outcomes. Operating from North Texas and serving clients nationwide, her multifaceted expertise spans business consulting, nonprofit development, executive coaching, public speaking, executive search, and book publishing.
Her impressive academic credentials include a Doctorate alongside three master’s degrees, underscoring her deep commitment to lifelong learning and professional mastery. Dr. Willis’ diverse career encompasses education, leadership, operations, and both business and nonprofit sectors, equipping her with a holistic perspective that informs her consulting approach. Since founding AWC in 2018, she has continuously adapted and expanded the company’s services to meet evolving client needs.
Expanding Services for Professional and Organizational Growth
April Willis Consulting works closely with small businesses, nonprofits, startups, and individual professionals, adopting a client-centered consulting model that begins with a thorough assessment of current circumstances and future goals. This approach ensures tailored recommendations across a suite of offerings including business strategy, career development, leadership coaching, and professional speaking engagements.
A notable recent expansion is AWC’s executive search and placement service, which has successfully filled numerous C-level and director roles across the United States. This service addresses the critical need for organizations to identify and secure leadership talent aligned with their mission and strategic objectives.
Additionally, AWC has integrated book editing and publishing into its portfolio, helping clients crystallize their expertise and personal narratives into published works. In the past year alone, the company has supported the publication of five books, empowering professionals to share their knowledge broadly and authentically.
Public Speaking as a Platform for Impact
Since 2013, Dr. April Willis has cultivated a robust public speaking career, delivering keynote speeches, workshops, and seminars to a wide array of audiences, from students to seasoned professionals. Her presentations focus on actionable insights related to business expansion, nonprofit leadership, career advancement, and education.
Her expertise has been recognized through contributions to the Forbes Coaches Council, where she has authored articles on building a professional speaking career and effective leadership strategies. In a 2022 Forbes Coaches Council article, she shared practical advice on gaining speaking experience, crafting a compelling resume, and securing conference opportunities, reflecting her commitment to empowering others to realize their potential.
Community Engagement and Leadership
Dr. Willis actively contributes to her local Southlake community, exemplifying leadership beyond her professional enterprises. She recently completed her term as President of the Southlake Rotary Club and currently serves as Programs Chair through June 2027. Additionally, she has begun her tenure as Treasurer of the Southlake Women’s Club and holds membership in the Southlake Chamber of Commerce, as well as a board position with Timarron Country Club.
Her dedication to education and literacy is further demonstrated through a unique initiative involving Kingsley, her certified therapy dog. Together, they visit elementary schools weekly, providing young readers with an engaging environment to practice reading skills. This effort highlights Dr. Willis’ holistic approach to leadership and community service.
Beyond local involvement, Dr. Willis supports academic and professional development through her scholarship program aimed at students pursuing higher education and career advancement.
National Nonprofit Collaborative: Empowering Nonprofit Professionals
The National Nonprofit Collaborative (NNC) serves as a vital resource under Dr. Willis’ leadership, offering nonprofit professionals practical tools, templates, and guidance to enhance organizational effectiveness. This initiative builds on her extensive consulting experience with nonprofits, including partnerships with organizations such as Day 1 Bags, AVANCE North Texas, the National Virtual Teacher Association, and the Coalition for Hemophilia B.
Her role within the Forbes Coaches Council nonprofit coaching community further cements her authority as a trusted expert in business consulting, public speaking, and coaching for the nonprofit sector.
Recognition That Reflects Expertise and Impact
Dr. Willis’ accomplishments have garnered significant recognition. April Willis Consulting was named to the 2026 Longhorn 100 list for the second consecutive year, highlighting the firm’s growth and presence within the Southlake business community. Moreover, Dr. Willis was honored as the #1 Business Consultant in the Southlake Style Awards, underscoring her professional excellence.
Her continued membership in the Forbes Coaches Council—now in its fifth year—and leadership of the Forbes Nonprofit Coaches Group for a second term further validate her standing as an authoritative voice in her fields of expertise.
A Vision for Continued Growth and Service
Looking ahead, Dr. April Willis is committed to expanding both April Willis Consulting and the National Nonprofit Collaborative. Her vision emphasizes delivering seasoned guidance to organizations and actionable support to professionals navigating critical career junctures. The growth in executive search, publishing, and speaking engagements enables her to connect with clients nationwide, amplifying her impact.
For businesses, nonprofits, and individual professionals seeking expert consulting, coaching, executive recruitment, publishing, or speaking services, Dr. Willis offers multiple avenues for engagement through AWC and the NNC.
Connect with Dr. April Willis on LinkedIn.
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