Transforming a Board

As the incoming Chair of the St. Paul’s Day School Board of Directors, I was looking for a way to educate, invigorate and clarify our Board responsibilities. 

 

James Elrod was introduced to me by our Rector, Stephanie Johnson. James' expertise was just what I was looking for to help me understand my role in developing leadership insight.  We met for an extremely productive afternoon as Jim led us through our responsibilities as Board members. 

 

He challenged us with case studies, led us in stimulating discussions and left us with a better understanding of our responsibilities.

 

As a workshop leader, Jim couldn't be more skilled. His quiet demeanor allows participants the time to think carefully of questions posed.  He took the time to listen carefully and to understand what each participant was thinking or struggling with.

 

When one member questioned the Board’s role in fiscal responsibility and if fundraising came under our purview, James provided clear and instructive answers, but left the door open for us to consider our options.

 

Before this group had met with James, they had faced many challenges successfully as a Board. With the arrival of a new Chair and the uncertainty  the pandemic placed on our financial future, the Board needed an opportunity to bond, to reinvigorate and to fully understand their charge. 

 

As we worked together with Jim’s guidance, the group became more cohesive and more excited about their roles.

 

Since that September, a few 6 months ago, our Mission statement has been updated to reflect who we are, a Board fundraiser was held to purchase new iPads for the teachers, a sub Committee has begun to revise our By-Laws, and Board members have reached out to support teachers and become more committed to the School. 

 

As Chair, I will be forever grateful to James, for his intuitive leadership and the quiet confidence he displayed to help us realize we could do this!

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Cindy Lindemeyer, St. Paul's Day School Board of Directors