Board decision-making

Many family philanthropies are considering adding outside perspectives and expertise to their governance structures. For those who are formally inviting non-family members to join their boards, how do they go about identifying and recruiting community board members? What characterizes a successful onboarding process? And, how can families continue to meaningfully engage their nonfamily board members throughout their tenure? Hear from… Read More

As philanthropy navigates an uncertain and changing landscape, it’s important to draw on the expertise and experience of peers to explore how family donors continue to effectively support their communities. Whether acting in solidarity with nonprofit partners, mobilizing additional resources, or seeking opportunities to support big new ideas, family philanthropies have the power, influence, and the ability to move nimbly… Read More

The success of a family philanthropy depends greatly on a strong relationship between its board chair and executive leader. These relationships are vital to creating a positive organizational culture, for navigating challenges, and guiding the organization through periods of change. Join this session to hear from experienced board chairs and executive leaders on how they built and evolved their relationships… Read More

Join the Emerging Family Leaders and Board Chair Peer Networks for a joint discussion on next-generation engagement and generational transition on foundation boards. The discussion will feature two case studies from family foundations currently experiencing generational transitions and managing next-generation engagement. We will hear from the Fleishhacker Foundation’s board chair John Ehrlich and fifth-generation board member Becca Randall, along with… Read More

In family philanthropy, there can be an inherent tension between balancing individual philanthropic priorities with a collective family philanthropic endeavor. Families’ abilities to work together effectively in their philanthropy is dependent not only on the way they design their collective giving, but also in how they structure the philanthropic activities outside of it. The responsibility of the board chair is… Read More

Philanthropy often seeks to change systems that are complex and intersectional. While no one funder can address all of pieces of the system, identifying the right approach for any organization can be a complex process in and of itself. Board chairs are responsible for leading their organizations and families through these processes, balancing internal and external dynamics. Jason Franklin will… Read More