On the Committee 2019: Leadership Development
Volunteers help our organization thrive! In this month's "On the Committee" feature, we're spotlighting our Leadership Development Committee, which recruits members to run for Board service. Committee Chair Donna MacMeans reveals what's on the docket for the 2019 election, and how members can get involved!
Tell us a little about you:
Hi all! I’m Donna MacMeans, the acting chairperson for the Leadership Development Committee. I’ve been the RWA Treasurer for the previous four years, so this is a new challenge for me. I’ve been a chapter president (2 years) and chapter treasurer (8 years) prior to serving on the board. The many years of chapter leadership and board service makes me a good fit for this current role.
Why did you want to be on this committee?
Leadership is important for the future of RWA. I have to say I was extremely impressed with the competence and dedication of the board during the years I served. I’d like to see those qualities continued on future boards. This committee is a way to do that.
What does the Leadership Development Committee do?
Basically we look for qualified candidates to run for the board both as officers and directors-at-large. We answer questions regarding what board service entails and provide information in an effort to bring the best and brightest to the board table.
What is the committee working on and can members help?
The biggest way members can help is to VOTE in the general elections held in August. This is so incredibly important. Right now, the committee is exploring a different presentation of candidates, one that emphasizes leadership in both chapter and national positions, so members can quickly assess the candidates credentials before voting. We are, of course, actively recruiting individuals to run in the 2019 elections, plus we are planning ways to attract individuals interested in board service for the 2020 election. We’re all about forward thinking. If you know of a general RWA member who, in your opinon, would be a great addition to the board, I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me at
[email protected].
Important Election Information
RWA’s Board of Directors consists of 12 Directors-at-Large, a Secretary, Treasurer, and President-Elect, making 15 voting members. The Board also has 3 non-voting elected Liaison positions: PAN Advisor, PRO Advisor, and Chapter Advisor. Each member of the Board serves a two-year term, with the exception of President and President-Elect, who serve one year each.
National volunteer positions are open to General and General Honorary members. For more information about about qualifications for Board service, please refer to the
Policy manual.
Members interested in running for a Board position must declare their intent to run by July 10 each year, and elections are held in August. The Board year begins on September 1 and ends August 31, and the Board meets for three in-person Board meetings and at least one telephonic Board meeting each year. Declarations or questions on running for the Board of Directors may be sent to
[email protected].
For more information on volunteer opportunities,
click here.