News & Insights

As the diversity of students entering theological schools continues to grow, many school leaders are challenged with mirroring that diversity within their administration, faculty, and board.

According to the 2017 National Index of Nonprofit Board Practices, only one quarter of boards are placing a high priority on demographics in board recruitment, and changing board recruitment practices does not rise to the top three priorities for most boards. In the In Trust Center's recent work with theological school boards, our experience matches those findings. Board leaders and board members suggest that diversity is important but have not focused on it. This very issue was highlighted in the March 2015 Auburn Study titled Governance that Works, which noted that boards are significantly less diverse than faculties and student bodies of the schools they govern.

So how might board leaders address the issue?

Five Questions to Get You Started” from BoardSource suggests a starting point. Consider taking this resource to your next board meeting or governance committee meeting where board recruitment might be addressed. Consider if your board is clear about what your ideal composition should be. Does the board track this over time? Or how might you reimagine your board member recruitment strategy? 

In addition, the Trust Center offered a webinar in 2018 on cultural assessment, which highlighted an opportunity for schools to consider their institutional culture, including their commitment to diversity and inclusion and how it impacts all stakeholders, including students. You can view this webinar on demand now.

Additional resources:

Interested in learning more, connecting with peers, or obtaining more resources? Email us at resources@intrust.org

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Conflict + Crisis: Navigating the Shoals, Part 2 – A Deeper Dive

Thursday, February 15, 2024, 1:00 p.m. (ET)

Presenter Donna Alexander, President & CEO of Advoxum Global Strategies, offers best practices for navigating conflict and crisis. She examines the crucial elements of defining conflict and crisis, identifying, and prioritizing affected stakeholders, utilizing effective communication strategies, and ultimately, executing a plan of action. Click here to register.

In Trust Center Resource Grants

FEBRUARY 22, 2024, 1 PM (ET)

An In Trust Center Resource Grant offers member schools a chance to explore innovation at their institutions through a matching grant opportunity of up to $15,000. Join us for this 30-minute information session, including Q&A, as we provide details on eligibility requirements, funding priorities, application process. Previous grantees are eligible to apply as long as they are not within our current funding cycle. Click to register.

Conflict + Crisis: Navigating the Shoals, Part 1

ON DEMAND

Presenter Donna Alexander, President & CEO of Advoxum Global Strategies, offers best practices for navigating conflict and crisis. She examines the crucial elements of defining conflict and crisis, identifying, and prioritizing affected stakeholders, utilizing effective communication strategies, and ultimately, executing a plan of action.

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