Board member training offered online

Ruby Arsenault, Employment Coach/Facilitator with the Tignish Employment Resources (ER) Centre

PEI is known for its many co-operatives and not-for-profit organizations. Many organizations are governed by a board of directors. One can gain valuable transferable skills and knowledge as a director and that experience is often viewed as highly favourable by employers.

Some organizations offer stipends to their directors, and all volunteers are valued for contributing to the community. Terms of service can range from one year to three years or more.

Do you know what qualifications are required to volunteer to sit on a board of directors?

Each board has its own values, missions, and goals. Qualifications may include:

• Good credit standing
• Community oriented
• Clean criminal record
• Ability to read financial statements
• Strong team player
• Good listening skills
• Dedication to attending board meetings
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• A genuine interest in the organization’s mission

Have you heard of Board Member Training?

Training is an excellent way to gain the fundamentals of a director’s role. I have participated in the program, and I felt it equipped me with the skills and knowledge to be a strong director. The most important thing I learned was about the liability or financial responsibility of a director.

Holland College’s customized training department offers board member training. Many organizations encourage their directors to participate in such training, and they may cover the cost.

The Board Member Training program is designed for members of boards of directors for not-for-profit organizations. The program brings awareness of key topics revolving around a board of directors and board operational procedures.

The course is now offered online. Students have access to a series of modules delivered through Holland College’s online learning management system. They explore curriculum, interact with guest speakers, and gain important knowledge needed to be on a board of directors.

Topics covered include:

1. Board Composition
2. Leadership Fundamentals
3. Fiduciary Responsibility
4. Financial Literacy
5. Community Engagement
6. Human Resource Fundamentals
7. Communications
8. Conflict Resolution
9. Succession Planning
10. RFP Process
11. Boardroom Etiquette

“This program has been offered since 2019,” says Emma Murray, Administrative Coordinator for the College’s customized training department. “To date, we have offered 13 programs.

“This online program is easy to navigate,” says Emma. Participants need a laptop or desktop computer, WiFi, and access to the site.

“This course was developed because many non-profit organizations are guided by a volunteer board of directors. This course creates awareness of many aspects of being a board member, including the significant liability members have. The goal of the course is to help current and future members gain the knowledge they need to be successful.”