On BOARD is A&BC’s unique training and matching program that equips business leaders with the knowledge, strategies and tools they will need to serve effectively on the governing board of a nonprofit arts organization. After completing the program, each candidate is placed on a board apprenticeship with a nonprofit arts organization in the Chicago area, after which they are elected to the board of directors. Since 1999, the Arts & Business Council of Chicago has successfully placed almost 200 business professionals on nonprofit arts boards.
"Encouraging and supporting board service is a tool Blue Cross uses to develop its next generation of leaders. Blue Cross is particularly fond of On BOARD because it prepares candidates for board service…and builds camaraderie and personal and professional networks.”
- Paul Boulis, Former President of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and former A&BC Board Member
Are You Board-Ready?
Participants graduate from On BOARD with concrete tools to help make decisions about the strategic, legal, financial, and operational direction of an arts organization. By the end of the program, participants report a high level of preparedness for board governance, and arts groups report the swift transition of On BOARD members in their new role as arts leaders. In fact, almost 50% of On BOARD graduates have been promoted to Executive Committee positions, often more rapidly than board members nominated through other processes.
SUBMIT AN APPLICATION FOR ON BOARD
Training Sessions
The program consists of 5 five-hour training sessions and 2 networking sessions with the participating arts organizations. Candidates are also provided with evening and weekend opportunities to attend performances and other organizational events, make site visits, and attend board and committee meetings in order to observe boards in action.
The training sessions provide extensive instruction in the legal, ethical, and financial responsibilities of serving on a nonprofit arts board. Board governance experts, nonprofit arts leaders, and current board members offer varied and interactive coursework including experiential workshops, group discussions and case studies.
The four-month On BOARD program is offered twice a year, commencing in February and September, respectively.
The On BOARD Spring 2012 course dates are as follows:
Application Deadline: February 1, 2012
Training Sessions:
Saturday March 3, 9:00am-2:00pm
Session 1: Structure, Process & Practices of Non Profit Arts Organizations: An Overview
Saturday March 31, 9:00am-1:30pm
Session 2: Non Profit Finances & Fiduciary Responsibilities of Non Profit Boards
Saturday April 21, 9:00am-1:30pm
Session 3: Legal Responsibilities of Non Profit Boards
Saturday May 19, 9:00am-2:00pm
Session 4: Funding, Fundraising & Development
Thursday June 21, 4:30-8:00pm
Session 5: Executive Leadership, Board Structures & Committees
Meet & Greet Networking Sessions with Participating Arts Organizations:
Tuesday, March 6, 5:30-8:00pm Meet & Greet with On BOARD Arts Organizations (Part I)
Tuesday, March 13, 5:30-8:00pm Meet & Greet with On BOARD Arts Organizations (Part II)
Attention Employers
Employees participating in the On BOARD program help to expand their company’s sphere of influence in the community, while gaining exposure to a dynamic network of business and cultural professionals. Trainees are immersed in an enriching environment of individuals passionate about the arts and committed to making a difference in the community. They are able to translate the positive impact of this experience back to their professional duties.
Graduates unanimously report that their broadened exposure enriches both their business and personal lives. Participants often find themselves sitting beside classmates who, by day, are business leaders and potential clients or customers. Many class participants are referrals from prior?year trainees and from companies that see the value this program program brings over time to the leadership of their organization. Please consider adding On BOARD to your list of employee leadership development options.
On BOARD Program Fees
The total fee for the 4 month program is $2,000.
Many companies sponsor employee candidates because they recognize board service as a professional leadership development opportunity and a great way to gain corporate visibility in the community. There are a limited number of scholarships available for individuals working in the civic sector, including educational institutions, community?based organizations, healthcare, and government, as well as for those who are unable to obtain sponsorship from their employer. On BOARD recommends pursuing sponsorship before applying to the program and can provide documents to assist with this process.
For more information about the On BOARD program or to apply, please contact Director of Programs - Board Services & Training, Kristen Romans (312)372-1876 ext. 221. Applications for the Spring 2012 Session of On BOARD are due February 1, 2012.
Generous Support for On BOARD is provided by:
