Date of Conferral
1-29-2025
Degree
Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A)
School
Public Policy and Administration
Advisor
Victor Ferreros
Abstract
This qualitative study examined the balance between local autonomy and organizational uniformity in a statewide nonprofit organization. Local chapters operated within the lead organization’s framework while retaining flexibility to establish their own bylaws, presenting challenges in communication, representation, and consistency. Guided by the research questions—How do the autonomous structures of the local chapters affect internal communication both within individual chapters and across local chapters? and To what extent do operational practices, methodologies, and goals vary across the local chapters, and are there identifiable lead practices that can be universally adopted to enhance the overall efficiency of chapters? —this study explored these dynamics. Interviews with presidents of eight local chapters examined how autonomy influenced communication, collaboration, and operational variations. Reflexive thematic analysis, guided by theories of representation and stakeholder engagement, revealed barriers such as fragmented communication and misaligned priorities, alongside strategies to address these challenges. Recommendations included fostering transparent communication, aligning flexibility with organizational goals, and strengthening stakeholder engagement. Implications for public administrative practice provide nonprofit leaders with actionable strategies to improve governance, strengthen representation, and increase operational efficiency. The findings emphasize empowering local chapters to address community-specific needs, fostering inclusivity, and amplifying the nonprofit’s community impact.
Recommended Citation
McClaney, Scottie Y., "Examining Organizational Changes in a Lead Organization With Local Chapters" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 16994.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/16994
