Educational Updates for the Board

After 15 years of governance experience, I’m still surprised at the lack of awareness many board members have around the importance of continuous education. Maybe I shouldn’t be so astonished. Being recruited to a board of director role is prestigious and implies you bring valued insight, trust and gravitas to a room filled with other highly successful people. Any need for board education could seem completely unnecessary.

However, a board of director assignment is not like joining a club. It is a professional role with clearly defined attributes and outcomes that determine performance. Directors should aspire to perform at the top of their game. Most professions require accreditation, certification and licensing to stay in practice. Why should board director service be any different? Board members are accountable and liable for their decisions, so it is reasonable to assume boards pursuing an ongoing educational program will have an edge. Board education sends a message to stakeholders that the board takes its duty and obligations seriously.

Already a subscriber? Sign In

About the Author(s)

Related Articles

Navigate the Boardroom

Sign up for the Directors & Boards weekly newsletter for the latest news, trends and analysis impacting public company boardrooms.