Governance

It’s been said that an exceptional board operates

on a higher level— time is spent more wisely, skills and social networks better leveraged, and treasured expertise more strategically deployed.

– MARTIN HAIRSTON (METALLURGY ‘86), BOARD OF TRUSTEES NOMINATING COMMITTEE CHAIR

Throughout the Tech’s history, its board consistently has been comprised of key influencers in business and industry. And rightfully so, because the school has always been at the forefront of education and in preparing and equipping innovators.

But maintaining an effective board is more than just filling spots. Leadership must be aligned with the school’s strategies and goals, and understand its unique needs and vision for the future. These key individuals should represent diverse perspectives to create a multi-faceted understanding of what must be accomplished. While upholding the unchanging mission, they must understand where the school is going and anticipate how to best help it reach those goals. It’s a given that board education should be ongoing, and board development and growth are natural outshoots of that training and call to self-reflection.

Through the recently detailed Strategic Plan, our nominating committee members, and the board at large, have taken a fresh look at standard best practices for independent school board development and have developed a more structured onboarding approach. The plan includes engaging key prospects over a period of time, while school administration and trustees fully explain the responsibilities involved. A matrix will inventory skill sets and leadership characteristics so that the best person for each position will enhance the current composition. When someone joins the board, they will be fully acquainted with the level of commitment required and what is expected of them, in their individual role.

In a new move, an annual onboarding date will delineate members’ life cycles. The nominating committee is currently identifying and assembling the next class of inductees and, by the time they are officially appointed, the new trustees will have met with executive officers and administration multiple times, completed orientation, and be fully cognizant of what is expected.

In addition to seeking leaders in currently emerging technologies, we’re looking years into the future to strategically prioritize areas that should be in sharpest focus as we seek the strongest advocates of our unique program. Areas like enrollment management, commitment to fund development, and dedication to increasing positive exposure for our successes, are elements for consideration as we develop a diverse board presence.

More than ever before, the school’s high performing administrative team has our full confidence. That capability, coupled with the prudent implementation of the Strategic Plan, is enabling the board to focus on the big picture—future success and growth—while effectively representing the voices of all stakeholders.

IMAGE:

Shot of board members in an in-person meeting in the library

Big screen with other members zoomed in

IMAGE SAMPLES:

Sample portrait moods; no one person focus