Nonprofit Board Development Flashcards

A nonprofit board wants to assess its own effectiveness. Which tool is most commonly used for this purpose?

Answer: Board self-assessment survey

Board self-assessment surveys allow members to evaluate governance practices, committee performance, and individual contributions against established criteria.

What is the primary purpose of a board orientation program?

Answer: To introduce new members to governance duties and organizational culture

Orientation helps new board members understand their legal duties, the organization's mission, bylaws, financials, and strategic priorities.

Which of the following best describes 'board culture'?

Answer: The unwritten norms, values, and behaviors that guide how the board operates

Board culture encompasses informal norms around communication, decision-making, dissent, and accountability that shape boardroom dynamics.

A board member who consistently misses meetings and ignores committee assignments should first be addressed through:

Answer: A private conversation by the board chair to clarify expectations

Best practice calls for the board chair to privately address attendance and engagement issues before escalating to formal removal procedures.

What does a board matrix (skills grid) help an organization accomplish?

Answer: Identify skill and demographic gaps to guide recruitment

A skills matrix maps current board members' expertise, demographics, and networks, revealing gaps that recruitment efforts should fill.

In nonprofit governance, 'term limits' are intended to:

Answer: Ensure board renewal and prevent entrenchment

Term limits encourage fresh perspectives and leadership development by rotating members off the board after a set period.

Which committee is typically responsible for identifying and vetting prospective board members?

Answer: Governance or nominating committee

The governance or nominating committee leads board recruitment, candidate screening, and onboarding to ensure strategic board composition.