| How We Do What We Do: Becoming a TPC Board member
Members occasionally ask how a woman can be considered for the Board. Answers follow!
Who becomes a Board member?
Board members are those who have a history of helping run TPC: they serve on or chair committees, host and run our Connect the Dots gatherings, lead and serve on grant teams, help fundraise, staff our Grant Awards meeting, and fill vital roles like being a Liaison and/or participating in Volunteer Days. Because we are volunteer-run with the exception of Alison, our part-time administrator, we look for women who have shown “historical willingness” to help run TPC. We seek women who do what they’ve committed to do with timely follow-through, who communicate well, and who work collaboratively to accomplish our mutually agreed upon goals.
What is the timing for Board selection and service?
In early fall, the Governance and Nominating Committee (GNC) asks the Board if there are specific skills and talents needed on the Board. At the Board’s annual meeting in November, it votes, per our by-laws, on officers (our President, Treasurer, and Clerk) for 1-year terms and for new Board members with terms starting January 1. Young Philanthropists serve for 2 years while members older than 35 serve for 3. Each is eligible for a second term with a maximum of two consecutive terms.
Who provides recommendations?
The GNC solicits possible Board candidates from Committee Chairs and co-Chairs, the Board, and other TPC leaders. Each recommender submits a summary of her history with the candidate, including experience working together, and of the candidate’s skills and experience.
Presently, our by-laws do not cap the number of members on the Board, which is currently 14. The GNC prioritizes the recommendations, and speaks with each candidate about potential interest in a Board position. If the candidate is interested in serving, she is given our document, “Expectations of a TPC Board Member”, asked what skills she would be interested in contributing to the Board, and has her questions answered. This process continues until the number of desired Board seats is filled.
Want more details about TPC’s by-laws? They live on our member portal under the “Members Only” section.
Interested in volunteering immediately on a one-time basis? Please contact Ruth Isaacs, our Volunteer Coordinator: ruth@firstjobhelp.com.
Interested in volunteering on or supporting a Committee, or being a Liaison? Be sure to respond promptly to the member survey coming in June.
Interested in learning more about TPC’s current Board members? Bios of the 14 women can be found at the About Us section of our website.
Have questions about our Governance and Nominating Committee? Please contact Committee Chair, Caitlyn Clarke: caitlyn.a.clarke@gmail.com. |
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