Gain the skills needed to lead a high-performing, resilient pension fund with confidence.
2026 Fall Advanced
Fiduciary Institute
Gain the skills needed to lead a high-performing, resilient pension fund with confidence.
About NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute
Held twice per year in the spring and the fall before our major conferences, NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute is where pension professionals and experienced trustees go to become certified experts in the skills needed to strengthen their retirement systems. Register now to join us October 24-25 in Nashville, TN directly before NCPERS Public Safety Conference.
Through real-world case studies and tailored insights in a small classroom setting, you’ll learn advanced strategies to enhance board performance, ensure compliance, manage risk, and address workforce challenges — equipping you to lead a high-performing, resilient pension fund with confidence. We recommend first attending NCPERS Trustee Essentials Training.
Click here to learn more about our other NCPERS University program held this fall, NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop.
What Will I Learn During NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary Institute?
Once you complete all four modules in NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary Institute (Governance, Finance, Risk Management, and Human Capital), put your knowledge to the test: Demonstrate your commitment to fiduciary excellence and public pension management by earning your Advanced Fiduciary (AF) certification.
Please note that only one track can be completed per program. Attendees can complete either Modules 1 & 2 or Modules 3 & 4 in the fall 2026 program. Below is an overview of what you'll learn in each module:
Modules 1 & 2
In Module 1 – Governance, participants explore the foundational responsibilities, accountabilities, and governance models that guide a public pension board. This module emphasizes the importance of a high-functioning board culture and addresses key questions about the proper level of board activity, the board’s role in setting strategy and direction, and best practices for attracting and retaining top board talent. By clarifying how board culture directly impacts governance outcomes, Module 1 empowers participants to navigate complex oversight challenges while steering their organizations toward long-term success.
Module 2 – Finance focuses on the financial expertise required for prudent fund management. Attendees learn how to access and interpret the essential information needed to make informed financial decisions, ensuring their funds remain compliant with investment policies, performance benchmarks, and disclosure standards. Participants also delve into the board’s responsibilities for setting investment policies, allocating assets, mitigating risk, and overseeing transparent financial reporting. Through these two modules, attendees develop a holistic view of how strong governance structures and strategic financial oversight work hand in hand, enabling them to serve confidently, protect stakeholders’ interests, and foster the growth and stability of their public pension funds.
Modules 3 & 4
In Module 3: Risk Management, participants deepen their understanding of the legal and risk oversight duties expected of both their board and themselves as individual trustees. This module examines the board’s fiduciary responsibilities, including how to detect and protect against fraudulent behavior, manage relationships with external parties, and effectively communicate with a diverse range of stakeholders such as management, pensioners, and employees. Additionally, it highlights the audit committee’s essential roles and provides strategies for responding to media inquiries while preserving your organization’s corporate reputation.
In Module 4: Human Capital, the focus shifts to building and sustaining leadership through sound compensation practices and strategic human resource management. This module guides participants through the fundamentals of total executive compensation design, including the creation of defensible compensation programs and the establishment of a pay-for-performance culture that maximizes fund performance. Participants will learn how to craft executive employment contracts and personal service agreements that avoid pitfalls and support positive growth transitions. Moreover, Module 4 offers insights into developing and maintaining a skilled executive pipeline, ensuring that your board is well-equipped to lead the organization into the future.
"As a past student of the NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary Institute, I can tell you that the NAF not only lays out the basics of what your fiduciary responsibilities are, it also provides the in-depth direction that will help any pension trustee, health trustee, or plan administrator be successful.” - Frank Lima, General Secretary-Treasurer, International Association of Fire Fighters, AFL-CIO
Earn Your Advanced Fiduciary (AF) Credential
As the highest professional designation offered by NCPERS, the Advanced Fiduciary (AF) credential provides a competitive edge for public pension trustees, plan administrators, and investment and operations staff.
After finishing all four NAF modules (Governance, Finance, Risk Management, and Human Capital), candidates must pass an online exam to demonstrate mastery of the program content. Please note that in 2026, the name changed from “Accredited Fiduciary” to “Advanced Fiduciary,” but credentials and learning completed remain valid.
The open book exam consists of multiple-choice and scenario-based questions that assess candidates’ ability to apply best practices, interpret fiduciary responsibilities, and make informed decisions based on real-world pension administration scenarios.
Meet Our Faculty
Our expert faculty has led the NAF program for more than 10 years. In 2025, they were recognized with NCPERS Pension Partners of the Year Award for their meaningful contributions to enhancing the learning experience and advancing best practices across the public pension sector.
Registration Information
NCPERS membership is required to attend NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute. NCPERS members save significantly on registration fees.
- Pension Fund/Stakeholder Member Early-Bird Registration Fee: $930 (prices will increase to $1,130 after October 1, 2026)
Register by October 1, 2026 to lock in your savings at the early-bird rate. Follow these instructions to create your account to register online, or contact registration@ncpers.org for assistance.
To register by mail, please download, complete, and mail the registration form to:
NCPERS
1201 New York Avenue, NW
Suite 850
Washington, DC 20005
All requests to modify a registration must be submitted by emailing registration@ncpers.org or by calling 202-601-2445.
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to registration@ncpers.org. Cancellations are eligible for a refund, less a $100 administrative fee.
Refunds will be issued only for written cancellation requests and will be processed less a $100 administrative fee. All refunds will be issued to the original form of payment.
Substitutions are permitted at no additional cost at any time prior to the event. The original registrant is responsible for providing the substitute’s complete contact information. All substitution requests must be submitted in writing to registration@ncpers.org.
NCPERS prioritizes the well-being of attendees and staff. We encourage respect for personal choices regarding masks and physical contact, adherence to any local or venue guidelines, and staying home if unwell. Thank you for helping us create a safe and welcoming environment.
Hotel Information: Renaissance Nashville
NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute will be held at the Renaissance Nashville Hotel, located in the heart of downtown. The NCPERS room rate is $339 per night, with a reservation deadline of Thursday, October 1 at 11:59 PM Eastern time.
The hotel sits just steps from Broadway, the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Nashville’s central business district, making it easy for attendees to explore the city before or after conference sessions. Attendees will have convenient access to conference sessions, networking events, and nearby restaurants and entertainment, all within walking distance. Don’t let the room rate sell out, book your stay early to secure the best rate.
Reservations: Book online or call 800-237-6618 and request the NCPERS 2026 Public Safety Conference room block.
Hotel Policies
Cancellation Policy: Reservations require a first night's room and tax deposit at the time of booking. Guests may cancel their reservation with 24 hour notice. Any guest who checks out prior to their confirmed departure date will be subject to an early departure fee equal to one night's room rate and applicable taxes. Guests are encouraged to confirm their arrival and departure dates carefully at the time of booking to avoid additional charges.
Check-In/Check-Out: Check-in begins at 4:00 PM and check-out is by 12:00 PM (noon)
Transportation
- Nearest Airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA) is approximately 8.4 miles from the hotel, typically a 15-minute drive depending on traffic.
- Rideshare: Uber/Lyft rides from BNA cost around $25-$35 and taxis cost $30-$40.
- Public Transit: WeGo Route 18 provides direct service from BNA to downtown Nashville. The trip takes about 30 minutes and costs approximately $2. The closest stop is a short walk from the hotel.
- Hotel Parking: Valet parking is currently $69 per day (oversized vehicles incur additional charges). Self-parking is available in nearby garages but is not operated by the hotel.
Frequently Asked Questions: NCPERS Advanced Fiduciary (NAF) Institute
About NCPERS University: Your Path to Fiduciary Excellence
Whether you’re a new trustee or an experienced professional, NCPERS University provides a clear path forward in your fiduciary journey. Interactive exercises and real-world case studies provide actionable insights, while our certification program can help you level up your pension knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to fiduciary excellence.
These pre-conference programs are designed to give trustees and pension professionals the tools, confidence, and practical skills to excel—not just during our events, but in every decision that shapes your fund’s future.
- Build your foundational knowledge with NCPERS Trustee Essentials Training.
- Find timely insights to navigate emerging challenges with NCPERS Fiduciary in Focus Workshop.
View the Upcoming Event Calendar
Questions? Contact NCPERS’ Education Associate, Jessica Ransome, at jransome@ncpers.org or call 202-601-2449.
Other Educational Resources
NCPERS Webinars
Continue your learning from anywhere with NCPERS Webinars. These live and on-demand sessions cover timely topics in public pension governance, investment strategies, risk management, and much more—led by industry experts.
NCPERS Research
NCPERS research provides key insights and solutions on public pension issues, from funding and fiscal sustainability to healthcare and finance. Explore our research library to access the latest reports.
NCPERS Publications
NCPERS publications provide members with timely insights and analysis on the most important issues affecting public pensions. These resources help you stay informed of best practices and ahead of industry trends.