PPA AND CBMI ANNOUNCE MULTI-YEAR STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO ADVANCE PROCUREMENT EDUCATION

Gilbert, AZ — The Procurement Professionals Alliance (PPA) in collaboration with the College Business Management Institute (CBMI) at University of Kentucky announced a multi-year strategic partnership to expand procurement opportunities across both organizations through December 31, 2028.

Through this partnership, PPA and CBMI will collaborate across key areas to create new pathways for procurement professionals to grow their networks and knowledge in the industry.

“The procurement profession is stronger when we work together. This partnership with CBMI is a natural extension of PPA’s mission to unite and elevate the industry,” said Jaime Schorr, Chief Growth Officer, PPA. “Our partnership lays the foundation for a deeper connection between membership and procurement education that we believe will shape the future of the profession.”

PPA will serve as a Premier Sponsor of the CBMI Annual Institute, reflecting its commitment to investing in procurement professionals and the communities they serve.

“Our collaboration with PPA has been incredibly valuable over the past two years, and formalizing this partnership allows us to expand what we can offer CBMI attendees. We’re excited to build on this strong foundation through enhanced programming, special events, and new opportunities that enrich the CBMI experience,” said Drew Elisabeth Ard, Associate Director, Specialty Events and Conferences. “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing professional development and supporting the evolving needs of higher education leaders. ”

CBMI attendees are eligible for complimentary PPA membership, which includes access to Procurement U, UPPCC examination preparation and certification, recertification support, and the PPA community, connecting professionals globally.

A highlight of this partnership is the introduction of a dedicated procurement track at CBMI beginning in 2027, with an emphasis on procurement strategy, methodologies, and practices to attendees and stakeholders. PPA is also sponsoring registration for ten CBMI attendees in 2026 and will continue to provide scholarships for the duration of the partnership.

About the Procurement Professionals Alliance: The Procurement Professionals Alliance (PPA) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit association dedicated to advancing the procurement profession through collaboration, education, and innovation. Launched in August 2025, PPA unites procurement professionals nationwide under the principle “Elevating the Industry. Unifying the Profession.” Through its commitment to integrity, collaboration, and continuous growth, PPA empowers professionals to shape a more connected, knowledgeable, and empowered industry that honors its heritage while forging a bold future. Membership is open to all procurement professionals and stakeholders. For more information, visit www.joinppa.org.

About the College Business Management Institute: Co-sponsored by SACUBO and the University of Kentucky, the College Business Management Institute (CBMI) offers an intensive course of study in business and financial management for administrators of colleges and universities. Ranging from entry-level to advanced, a variety of courses are taught by distinguished faculty who are practicing administrators and leaders in their fields. CBMI is designed to provide participants with an overview of current issues and procedures applicable to institutions of higher education large and small, public and private. Individuals participate in one week of instruction each summer for three years to earn a certificate of completion. For more information, visit https://cbmi.uky.edu/.

Media Contact:

Robin Mosley, Communications Manager
PPA
[email protected]