Every nonprofit arts organization has a Board of Directors — that’s the law. But having a board and having a GOOD board — one that works efficiently, governs wisely, contains skilled and enthusiastic members, and works well with staff — well, that’s another thing entirely!

Understanding the proper role of the Board of Directors can help both board and staff members work together toward the ultimate goal: accomplishing the organization’s mission. Whether you’re a board member or staff member, if you’ve ever gotten frustrated at a board meeting (and, honestly…who hasn’t?), this course is for you.

In this course, we’ll discuss the difference between governance and management, the essential functions of a nonprofit board, responsibilities of the individual board member, board committees, developing the board, and the relationship between board and staff.

This course will take approximately 1.5 – 2 hours of your time, but you are free to move at your own pace — start and stop as you please!

Course Instructor: Ellen Rosewall is Associate Professor and Coordinator of the Arts Management program at University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. She consults with organizations throughout the Midwest on board development, strategic planning, and audience development. Ellen has served on the staff and board of arts organizations of every size and shape, ranging from a community chorus with a $100,000 budget to a major regional performing arts center. Currently, she is President of the Wisconsin Public Radio Association board of directors, and is an Arts in Crisis mentor for John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.