Purpose

The seminar series, which is offered in Rochester, Syracuse, and Utica, is designed to give a small group of current or future nonprofit board chairs an opportunity to learn about and discuss governance topics and issues that will enhance their effectiveness as board leaders.

Curriculum

The seminar series covers the following topic:

• Board Responsibilities and Structure
• Financial Literacy for Boards
• Resource Development
• Planning and Performance Oversight
• Board and CEO
• Political Literacy for Boards
• Managing the Board I: Board as a Human Resource
• Managing the Board II: Role of the Chair

The series comprises eight or nine seminars (depending on location), meeting monthly in the early morning. Each seminar includes a presentation on standards of practice for nonprofit boards and discussion of issues that arise when applying the standards. The number of participants is kept small, usually about 12, in order to facilitate candid exchange in an atmosphere of trust and collegiality.

The seminar begins with an orientation session in September or early October, depending on the area. Nominations are due August 15.

Eligibility and Nomination Process

It is aimed at leaders who are just beginning their terms as chair or are in line to be chair of the board of a nonprofit organization. Candidates are nominated by their organizations. There is no charge for participants. Nominations must be submitted no later than August 15, 2008 for the 2008-2009 seminars.

For information on the 2008-2009 seminar contact:

• Rochester: Lisa Moore, 585-327-6527, lisa.a.moore@excellus.com
• Syracuse: Jeanne Bryant, 315-671-7061, Jeanne.bryant@excellus.com
• Utica: Marguerite Lynch, (315) 798-4303, marguerite.lynch@excellus.com