The Board – Staff Relationship

Can a volunteer board have much of a relationship with their non-profit’s staff? This question comes up in many governance conversations. The standard line is that while the board is responsible for staff, their relationship is really only with the chief executive. I think a more nuanced answer is needed.

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Board Orientation Rejigged

Board orientation refers to a process for helping newly elected directors contribute fully, and as early in their term as possible, to the governing work of the board. Very often it takes the form of a special meeting designed to provide information to these directors about their responsibilities and the operations of the organization.

Is it enough to assume that the goal, simply stated, is to transfer important information and respond to questions from new directors? From an adult education perspective I think board orientation could benefit from the articulation of some specific learning objectives

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