Diane Hewitt-Johnson, Chautauqua Opportunities Inc.’s CEO, recently achieved status as a Certified Community Action Professional. She is pictured with the certification at the National Community Action Partnership’s annual conference in Seattle, Wash.

Diane Hewitt-Johnson, Chautauqua Opportunities Inc.’s CEO, recently achieved status as a Certified Community Action Professional.

Hewitt-Johnson was among 112 CCAP graduates who were recognized in August at the National Community Action Partnership’s annual conference in Seattle, Wash. The Certified Community Action Professional credential recognizes those who demonstrate knowledge and application 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. Hewitt-Johnson 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 Certified Community Action Professional designation 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, Hewitt-Johnson’s aspirations include becoming a mentor for other community action professionals across the country.

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’s degree 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. Hewitt-Johnson serves on the board of Community Action Program Legal Services Inc., a national organization, and is the board vice president of the state Community Action Association.

COI has been in existence since 1965 and is the federally designated Community Action Agency in Chautauqua County. It is one of over 1,100 Community Action Agencies across the country, including 47 in New York. COI is tasked with providing 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.