Description:

Many organizations are focusing on diversifying their board of directors. We'll talk about the "why" of board diversification, what the potential outcomes may be, and how board diversification can help you better serve your constituents, your staff, and your community.

We'll address strategies for determining who to reach out to for potential board service, how to reach out to them, successful language to start the conversations, and how to be honest with potential board members about "where you are" on your equity journey as an organization.

We'll address the potential pitfalls and strategies to avoid furthering harm to BIPOC folks, members of the LGBTQ+ community, disabled community members, women, and others who are often overlooked when it comes to potential board service. Finally, we'll address preparation and tragedies for success once your new board members join.

Learning Objectives:

*How to start a conversation about a more diverse board. 
*Strategies for board diversification that don't perpetuate harm to BIPOC and other Communities.
*Common pitfalls in board diversification and how to avoid them.

About the Presenter:

Lisa Watson is the Executive Director of American Leadership Forum of Oregon and a member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde. She is a recovering entrepreneur who now serves on non profit boards to feed her soul in her "spare" time.

Her board service has included Q Center, Travel Portland, City Club of Portland, Oregon Health Policy Board, ACLU of Oregon, The Center for Women's Leadership ( at PSU), and Spirit Mountain Gaming Incorporated. She has led and served on many committees to recruit candidates for board service and has learned many lessons along the way.

Lisa has also worked in Development and Communications at Our House of Portland, a local Portland service agency for people living with HIV; and also at Latino Network, serving Latinx students and families across the area.

Lisa believes that racial and social justice are the non negotiable responsibility of the non profit sector and dares you to fight her about it.