Newly Elected to a Nonprofit Board? 6 Questions for Success

Congratulations on being elected to your nonprofit board of directors!

Here are six key questions as you prepare for your new gig, with answers below:

  1. What is my moral and legal “duty of care” as a nonprofit board director?
  2. Is it a good idea to “go along to get along” on a nonprofit board?
  3. What do I have to know about my nonprofit’s finances?
  4. Who’s in charge of our meetings?
  5. How can we have effective meetings?
  6. I’m confused about “motions” in Robert’s Rules – how does the system work?

Duty of care: Duty of care is critical for nonprofit board directors

Going along to get along: My board is too nice 

Nonprofit finances: Who’s responsible for the money?

Who’s in charge?  The chair is not in charge of your meeting

Effective meetings: Follow four fundamental guidelines for successful meetings

How motions work: Processing motions in Robert’s Rules


Ann Macfarlane

Ann G. Macfarlane is a Professional Registered Parliamentarian. She offers an interactive and user-friendly way to master the key points for effective, efficient and fair meetings. Her background as a diplomat and Russian translator enables her to connect with elected officials and nonprofit board directors and give them the tools they need for success. She is the author of Mastering Council Meetings: A guidebook for elected officials and local governments.