Board of Directors: Expectations

The AMLA Board of Directors is a working board. Though we occasionally hire consultants for special tasks, we currently have no regular paid staff.  Board members do the bulk of the work needed to run the organization.

Board members are expected to be familiar with and abide by all AMLA Bylaws and Policies.

• Act in the best interest of the organization, including oversight of AMLA's finances.

• Support the expression of a wide range of ideas.

• Approach the work of the organization in a spirit of cooperation, creativity, collegiality, integrity, and respect.

• Attend the annual board retreat when scheduled during the summer. Candidates should hold these dates in the event they are elected.

• Make AMLA a top priority in their time and attention for the duration of their term. Chair at least one AMLA committee and participate in others as needed. Participate in monthly board meetings via conference call, and other meetings as deemed necessary to carry out AMLA's mission, including attendance at the NMEC. Expect to spend 5 - 10 hours/week on AMLA business.

• Serve for a full two-year term with an opportunity to be re-elected twice, thus serving six years - and thus really contributing leadership to the field.

• Become familiar with membership and funding, corporate funding and and conflict-of-interest policies and programs in order to actively promote the organization to colleagues, assist in recruiting members and help with locating and soliciting funding opportunities.

• Cover their own expenses whenever possible or have their organization provide funding for board service. There is no financial compensation for board members' service, but in case of need and with prior approval, board members may be reimbursed for some expenses.

• Bring a working knowledge of the technology tools necessary for board communication and conducting the business of the organization. The board utilizes conference calls and e-mail to minimize cost. Be prepared to have the technology available to support your active involvement on the board. Experience with Excel is recommended.

• Actively work to ensure that the diversity of AMLA membership reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

• On selected occasions, represent the organization at non-AMLA events, conferences, or meetings.

To discuss the personal experience of board membership with any of the current board, send an email to them.