Ep. 100: What decades of governance still have to teach us

What are the trends in governance – the new ways to make things work? First, look to the past. Governance expert Rebekah Basinger, Ed.D., reflects on what theological schools can learn by revisiting enduring principles of board leadership. Drawing on decades of experience, the conversation explores why good governance wisdom remains remarkably consistent – even as pressures from finances, regulation, and post-COVID realities intensify. Basinger names challenges such as executive turnover, shrinking and fatigued boards, and the lingering effects of “long COVID” on board culture and engagement. At the same time, she offers a hopeful vision: boards that reclaim their fiduciary role, invest in meaningful relationships, and approach governance as shared stewardship of mission. The episode invites board members and leaders alike to slow down, ask better questions, and rediscover why their work – and their presence – truly matters.