Reimagining Board Service: Making Volunteer Leadership More Transparent and Purposeful

Board service within AFP is a profound opportunity—to lead, to learn, and to uplift our profession. But for many prospective leaders, the path to that opportunity hasn’t always felt clear. Whether it’s the nomination process, committee expectations, or eligibility itself, questions have lingered—even for the most enthusiastic members.

AFP has heard those questions—and we’re responding with care, transparency, and purpose.

A History Rooted in Listening and Learning

In June 2023, AFP Global, with guidance from McKinley Advisors, embarked on a strategic planning process for 2025 and beyond. This effort led to a deeper review of our governance structures, ensuring that our systems reflect our values and the evolving needs of our members.

As a result, the Governance Ecosystem Task Force (GETF), chaired by Adrienne Longenecker, CFRE, was formed to examine the effectiveness and inclusivity of our board and committee structures, appointment processes, and volunteer engagement. The task force applied a lens of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA), reviewing member survey data, board feedback, and emerging strategic themes.

One critical outcome: recognizing the need for greater transparency and equity in the board nominating process. In July 2024, the AFP Board approved key recommendations from the GETF, leading to the creation of a new Nominations Committee Task Force to carry that vision forward.

A New Vision for Board Service

The Nominations Committee Task Force—chaired by Rochelle M. Jerry, CFRM, and composed of a diverse group of AFP leaders—was charged with making AFP's board nomination process more open, inclusive, and aligned with the leadership development needs of our members.

Together, they developed three core recommendations:

1. Expand Representation and Modernize the Process

• Introduce a transparent nomination and election process for committee members via an open call.
• Increase access and inclusivity by dissolving geographic district voting, ensuring all members can participate.
• Implement a streamlined, online voting system for Nominating Committee members to reduce barriers and boost engagement.
• Create a smaller, more agile committee of 10–12 members with rotating terms.

2. Establish a Leadership Development Pathway

• Launch an annual Board Leadership Survey to allow members to express interest and readiness for future roles.
• Develop a formal leadership pathway with clear criteria, mentorship opportunities, and defined role descriptions.
• Support members not just as volunteers—but as future leaders.

3. Increase Transparency Across the Board

• Develop and roll out a communications plan to demystify the nominating process.
• Celebrate leadership journeys publicly, helping members feel seen, supported, and inspired to serve.
• Align messaging with the IDEA lens to ensure outreach across all experience levels and backgrounds.

These recommendations go beyond procedural change—they represent a philosophical shift: board service should be as much about personal and professional growth as it is about governance.  

Empowering Today’s Leaders—and Tomorrow’s

At AFP, we believe board service is more than a duty—it’s a developmental opportunity that should feel accessible, intentional, and rewarding. And now, we're inviting you to take that step.

Applications are now open for AFP Global Board service. If you’ve ever wondered whether your voice belongs at the table—this is your moment.

📣 Learn more and apply today at:
🔗 afpglobal.org/boardnominations

A Call to Serve—and to Care

We want to support your growth just as much as we value your guidance. Board service at AFP is no longer something reserved for those “in the know.” It’s an evolving, inclusive journey—one that reflects who we are as a professional community and where we're going.

Our members have asked for more purpose, more transparency, and a clearer path to leadership. We’ve listened—and now, we’re acting.

Let’s lead forward—together.
 

Birgit Smith Burton
Global Board, Immediate Past Chair
Nominating Committee, Chair
Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP)