At Large positions

Welcome to my blog!

The debate - As a Board we’ve engaged in numerous dialogues about the size of the Board and about the non-regional Trustee positions.  We’ve read books about the composition and size of boards.  We’ve had Trustee to Represent Diverse Cultures talk to us about his position.  We’ve held discussions about the currently vacant teacher Trustee position.  I would like to continue, and focus, the discussion. 

I would like to "discuss" this topic on a blog.  We can share their opinions, agree or disagree with other's postings, and in short, start the discussion prior to the meeting to save us all some time. 

Proposed Changes - The Regional Trustees (3 from each region) represent the members in the states from that region, covering the United States and many foreign countries.  If the Regional Trustees represent the region, does it matter where the “at large” Trustees live?  Is there a reason why these positions are designed by region as well? Shouldn’t these positions fill competency and skill gaps in the board?  What if the positions were redesigned?

At Large Defined - An “At Large” board member is defined as, “a person elected or selected for a board for his/her experience, expertise, or special insight.”  In our book study about boards, the sizes of boards, and the composition of boards, we learned it is important to have the right people on the board.  People who bring the skills and talents needed at that particular time to help the board in its decision-making. 

The Questions:

1)  Do our "at large" Trustees need to be designated from a particular region?

2) Should these positions be filled by who is candidate is (teacher, administrator, higher ed, etc.), where they live (by designated regions), or by what skills the candidate will bring to the board?

3)  What are your ideas?

I would like all Trustees to read the previously posted comments and then share his/her thoughts to one or both of the questions.