DAT Center of Excellence Task Force (CET)

Announcement from the DAT Center of Excellence Task Force (CET) Dear community members, Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatu Allah wa Barakatuh  The DAT CET is pleased to provide an update on our ongoing partnership with Forerunners (https://forerunners.org/). This partnership focuses on conducting an Amanah assessment of DAT to elevate the quality of our work and further strengthen DAT as a true center of excellence. As a reminder, the selection of Forerunners followed an extensive and rigorous search process. This included a thorough review of reputable professional organizations, multiple meetings at the 2025 ICNA conference and other national gatherings, and consultations with respected local Islamic institutions. The final selection was formally reviewed and approved by both the BoT and BoD. Alhamdulillah, Forerunners has now completed the six-week Amanah assessment of DAT. This comprehensive review examined several key areas, including DAT’s bylaws, articles of foundation, contracts, survey results, and a series of one-on-one interviews.  Forerunners subsequently presented their detailed findings to both boards, outlining areas of strength as well as opportunities for improvement. As the first phase of our response, the CET has developed an enhanced communication plan aimed at increasing transparency, building trust, and ensuring consistent engagement with our beloved DAT community. Following this, we will proceed with a prioritized execution plan, inshallah. What to Expect Moving Forward 1. Monthly community meetings (held in-person or online in the form of town halls, GBM, webinars, etc) to share major updates. 2. Biweekly office hours with both the BoT and BoD to provide direct access and open conversation. 3. Regular biweekly updates from the BoT and BoD on DAT’s official social media channels. We are grateful for your continued support, patience, and partnership as we work collectively to strengthen our community. More updates will be shared soon, inshallah, as we continue this journey together. Jazakum Allah Khair  — DAT CET, Committed to a Culture of Excellence