NIRSA Foundation board member expectations
Board members act as the chief ambassadors for the NIRSA Foundation, executing their duties and responsibilities with the utmost professionalism. They are committed to upholding the mission, goals, objectives, and values of the Board.
Specific expectations include:
- Demonstrate a passion for the mission of the NIRSA Foundation
- Participate in donor cultivation and retention strategies
- Participate as a member of NIRSA Foundation Board committees as assigned
- Prepare for and participate in scheduled monthly videoconference meetings and virtual board orientation sessions
- Participate in a multi-day in-person spring meeting (2025 dates are TBD but typically happen in May or June; required travel will be funded through the Foundation’s annual operating budget)
- Attend the NIRSA Conference and Campus Rec Expo during board term
- Balance the requirements of being a volunteer leader with the expectations of your primary job responsibilities
- Maintain current, active NIRSA membership in the Professional, Professional Life, or Emeritus category throughout the term
Qualifications and competencies needed to serve on the NIRSA Foundation Board of Directors
Communication: Communicate opinions and ideas clearly and effectively while adapting to the diverse audiences that comprise NIRSA. Willing to serve as a voice for the NIRSA Foundation to:
- Engage and educate donors on the purpose, functions, and initiatives of the NIRSA Foundation
- Identify and cultivate prospective donors while also providing stewardship to current and past donors
- Represent the NIRSA Foundation Board at various NIRSA functions and industry-related events as appropriate
- Engage with other NIRSA and non-NIRSA committees, boards, or volunteer services
Critical Thinking: Actively and skillfully conceptualize, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information to inform critical decision making.
Strategic Thinking: Think imaginatively, systematically, and opportunistically in alignment with NIRSA’s core purpose.
Leadership: Represent the NIRSA Foundation distinctively and positively, embracing diversity while maintaining a high reputation in this role:
- Embrace the core purpose of the NIRSA Foundation
- Demonstrate an understanding of the NIRSA Foundation’s beneficiaries and a commitment to the communities the NIRSA Foundation serves
Knowledge: Understand and commit to learning best practices in foundation management, development, and fiduciary responsibilities as a board member.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities needed to serve on the NIRSA Foundation Board of Directors:
- Non-profit Fundraising
- Innovator/Strategic Thinker
- Financial Knowledge
- Networking/Relationship Building
- Project Management
- Advocacy
- Data/Assessment
For questions about NIRSA Foundation Board positions, please contact Demond Pryor, NIRSA Foundation President, or NIRSA Foundation President-Elect and Nominations Committee Chair, Liz Henry. If you have any questions about or difficulties completing this form, please contact Elishea Borin, NIRSA Executive Office & Operations Manager.