09/01/2026
Let’s start with a reminder of what inclusive, equitable board work means: it’s collaborative, structured work that incorporates multiple perspectives—especially those closest to the work—to help nonprofit organizations move forward thoughtfully, equitably, and with clarity.
It’s hard to believe that even experts like Boardsource are still talking about boards providing “strategic oversight” while staff focuses on day-to-day operations, a very traditional (and antiquated) view.
This may be part of the story, but this traditional view does not work if we hold the vision that our organizations should be a microcosm of the world we’re seeking to build; a world in which all people’s perspectives are honored and people have the power to weigh in on their collective future.
There are other ways to think about the relationship between the board and staff, perhaps most notably in terms of “power with” rather than “power over”.
Read the full blog at https://www.therosscollective.com/blog/how-structure-creates-transparency-and-makes-power-sharing-possible
Hi, I'm Renee - our consulting firm The Ross Collective designs and leads inclusive, participatory and processes alongside leaders. Stay in touch about via our free 2x monthly e-list on nonprofit strategy, racial equity and leadership - https://lnkd.in/gAcTtCw
