Practical Solutions for Higher Ed Leadership and Nonprofit Strategy

Professional headshot of Scott Cline

Bring me your big, messy problems.

I’m Scott Cline, and I spent over 20 years in executive roles across higher education and nonprofit associations. Along the way, I’ve navigated just about every kind of challenge, from enrollment issues and messy financial aid systems to stalled strategic plans and siloed teams.

Those experiences led me to start Scott Cline Consulting (SCC): a service built for organizations that need honest insight and real momentum — not just another report.

This is not an agency. 

SCC isn’t a plug-and-play consulting firm. It’s me — one person who’s deeply invested in your success. I’m here to be your thought partner, team builder, and no-nonsense strategist.

My higher ed and nonprofit consulting services focus on bringing people together to make meaningful change — the kind that doesn’t sit on a shelf or get lost in bureaucracy.

Together, we can make real-world progress that supports your students, your community, and your mission.

Scott Cline Consulting is…

  • You need more than a strategic plan; you need one that works in the complex world of higher education. I bring strategic problem-solving, along with on-the-ground insights from decades of industry experience. SCC solutions will always be specific to your project needs, your team’s bandwidth, and your organization’s goals. 

  • Nonprofits serve important missions — but believing in a shared purpose doesn’t always mean your team is able to work effectively or efficiently. I collaborate with organizations and nonprofit leaders to take your projects from inspiration to impact. 

  • I’m passionate about helping individuals and teams grow, no matter where you are in your career.. Whether you’re investing in yourself as a current leader, upskilling a staff member to support the future of the organization, or looking to build a stronger, more cohesive team — I’m here to help. 

  • When your organization needs a clear-eyed assessment, I provide practical support — no internal bias, no fluff. Through strategic guidance and a collaborative approach, I help institutions tackle challenges, align teams, and achieve growth.

  • I provide actionable insights and strategic pathways to untangle organizational challenges. You can find me at:

    • In-person events

    • Virtual sessions

    • Digital platforms

    Would my voice be a good match for your project? Contact me.

What Clients Say

  • "Scott didn’t just give us a road map—he gave us the tools and training to implement the plan and adapt to changes. His ability to combine operational expertise with leadership coaching is unmatched."

    Associate Vice President, Public 4-Year Institution

  • "Scott’s mentorship has been transformative in helping me grow into a more confident and effective leader. His coaching provided me with the tools, strategies, and perspective to navigate challenges with clarity and confidence. Through his guidance, I’ve developed stronger leadership skills, refined my decision-making abilities, and feel more prepared than ever to step into my next big role."

    Director of Financial Aid, Private Non-Profit

  • "Scott’s structured and tailored approach to coaching didn’t just leave me with a bunch of conversations in the end. From developing a plan to team capacity-building, his impact has been both measurable and transformational for me and our institution."

    Vice President Executive, Non-Profit Foundation