Not-for-Profit Arts Organizations Board Development Seminar

About the Board Development Seminar

Seminar Has Reached Full Capacity
Thank you for your interest in the Kennedy Center Board Development Seminar. The event has reached capacity, but if you would like to be added to the waiting list, please complete the registration process. If space becomes available, you will be contacted.

How can board members…

• Help their organizations achieve fundraising success?
• Guide their organizations in times of financial instability?
• Hire and retain effective artistic and executive/managing directors?
• Learn the importance of marketing and how organizations can create image with minimal resources?

How should an organization…

• Structure its governing board?
• Build the capacity of governing boards to support the organizational mission?
• Build the capacity of governing boards to enhance the organizational fundraising efforts?

In an economic downturn, board members are crucial to the health of their not-for-profit arts organizations. These Board members are already faced with many challenges: developing strategic plans, evaluating and approving budgets, hiring senior administrative and artistic staff, and leading fundraising campaigns. Too few Board members have the experience and/or skills to effectively facilitate their organizations' success at their missions while navigating these challenges. As a result, many Board members must rely heavily on conventional wisdom as they attempt to fulfill their roles.

The Kennedy Center Not-for-Profits Arts Organizations Board Development Seminar is ideal for teams of current/potential board members and senior staff from arts organizations in the U.S. and abroad to gain new skills and knowledge in this practical and user-friendly program. Over the course of two and half days, senior staff members of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts lead discussions to promote more effective and efficient board leadership. Participants will learn how to delve into not-for-profit financial statements; how to evaluate and implement fundraising campaigns; the importance of and techniques for building institutional identity; and how to select creative, resourceful, and forward-thinking individuals to lead their organizations.

The seminar is led by Kennedy Center President Michael M. Kaiser and members of his senior staff. Dubbed "the Turnaround King" for his work at numerous institutions, including the Royal Opera House (London), American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and the Kansas City Ballet, Michael has earned international renown for his expertise in arts management. As a Cultural Ambassador for the U.S. Department of State, he advises performing arts organizations around the world, working with arts leaders in over 60 countries. He has created an online education forum for arts administrators at www.artsmanager.org, where professionals and students in the field can share experiences, seek employment, and post opportunities. He founded "Arts In Crisis: A Kennedy Center Initiative" in early February, which is currently providing free arts management consultation to over 300 arts organizations across the United States.