December 1, 2009
Filed under: On BOARD
Despite sub-zero temperatures outside, the mood at the MacArthur Foundation was especially festive on December 10 as A&BC’s fall On BOARD class officially graduated from the program. The 13 dedicated professionals will now begin to serve as board members. They are joining organizations including the Chicago Human Rhythm Project, Remy Bummpo Theatre, River North Chicago Dance Company, Route 66 Theatre and others, and like most graduates, their journey is just beginning.
“Serving on a board requires generously giving your time, energy, passion and talent,” noted A&BC On BOARD Program Manager Kristen Romans, “I’m so impressed by the willingness of On BOARD graduates to volunteer as board members of an arts organization. It’s this kind of long-term commitment that really helps the arts community thrive.”
After going through an intensive five-session training however, the candidates are well prepared for what lies ahead. Claudette Smith of Northern Trust and new board member at the Chicago Human Rhythm Project echoed that sentiment:
“It’s easy to say that A&BC’s On Board training program equipped me with the tools needed to become an effective board member. The training includes a wealth of reading material, lectures from expert trainees, board members and directors, and numerous meetings attended by current board members from a multitude of participating organizations, each sharing the hope of selecting a On BOARD graduate to expand their board.”
As nonprofit arts organizations continue to weather a challenging funding climate along with the necessity of building and engaging audiences around their mission, an engaged and committed board takes on even more import. With this in mind, A&BC is particularly proud of its On BOARD graduates as their efforts as board members will have a long-term impact on the entire cultural community. Please join the A&BC in congratulating the Fall 2009 On BOARD class. The graduates are: Tom Berg , Maria Constantinides, Bill Gargiulo, Marna Goldwin, Stanley Kincaid, Gaynell Malone, Todd Milligan, Paul Neary, Kelly Newcomb, Jon Sick, Claudette Smith, Regan Smith, Brian Wisniewski, and Ron Zoromski.
Recruitment for the Winter 2010 On BOARD class is in full swing. Visit A&BC’s web site if you are interested in participating as a board candidate or as an arts organization that is looking for new board members. For further information contact Kristen Romans, (312) 372-1876, ext. 221. The application deadline is February 1, 2009.
The On BOARD program is generously supported by the MacArthur Foundation, The Siragusa Foundation and fees that candidates pay to participate.