ARLIS/NA Board Applicant FAQ

Yes, it is expected that board members attend the conference. 

A stipend is provided for each required board activity if your institution does not fund travel. Please note that while exceptions can be made in cases of personal emergencies, absence from the conference should not be a planned scenario.

What are the next steps after expressing interest?

The process after expressing interest is as follows:

• 60-Day Response Deadline: Members have 60 days from the posting on ARLIS-L to respond to the interest form.
  Shortlisting: The Nominating Committee will create a shortlist of candidates based on board diversity and competency strength who will be asked for a full application.
• Evaluation: The committee will assess candidates' applications with a rubric. A short Zoom interview may also be arranged if necessary.
• Proposed Slate: The committee will then develop a proposed slate, based on the evaluation, to present to the Executive Board for approval.
• Nomination Statements: Answers to the questions on the full application will form the Nomination Statements sent to members. You will have the chance to revise this before it is announced to ARLIS-L. You will also be asked to provide a resume or CV and a headshot.
• Announcement to ARLIS-L: Once approved, the slate will be announced to the ARLIS-L community. Members have 30 days to provide comments before the slate is finalized.

Is training provided?

• Board Meeting Overlap: While your executive board term officially begins at the conference, elected individuals will start participating in board meetings at the beginning of the calendar year for familiarization.
• Meetings with Outgoing Board Members: Outgoing board members also meet with incoming members to hand off projects and provide insight about the role. 
• General Onboarding Session: There is also a virtual board member onboarding session that covers issues like the general role of the board, the role and structure of staff, confidentiality, governing documents, board tools, etc.

Is there a stipend?

While there isn't a fixed stipend for the roles, a small travel stipend is provided if your travel costs are not covered by your institution.

How often does the board meet?

The Executive Board generally meets virtually monthly. The Annual meeting may be held at the conclusion of the annual conference at the location of the conference. The midyear meeting, generally held in October, may be split into multiple meetings.