Bold Idea Board of Directors

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Background

Founded in 2015, Bold Idea is a Dallas non-profit organization that is focused on developing young minds to execute bold ideas as a team through the power of coding. Whatever field students choose to go into as adults, their ability to succeed will increasingly hinge on understanding how technology works. But only a tiny fraction of us are learning computer science, and less are studying it than a decade ago. Bold Idea is committed to addressing this issue by developing student-led and mentor-supported education programs that give students hands-on opportunities in coding through projects they are passionate about - from social good to the arts and beyond.

In January 2016, Bold Idea will pilot the ideaSpark program, aimed at empowering students to apply computer science to community problem solving. The program provides education in fundamental computer science concepts and programming languages, mentoring and a team-based learning environment for students in the Dallas area. As a result, they are empowered to take action in their communities and the world through the innovative use of technology, while developing the critical thinking, confidence and teamwork required to succeed in the 21st century.

Board of Directors Recruitment

Bold Idea is a public charity with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code. Bold Idea’s immediate governing and fund development responsibilities rely on the support of a separate Board of Directors. The Board supports the work of Bold Idea and provides mission-based leadership and strategic governance. While day-to-day operations are led by Bold Idea’s president, the Board-President relationship is a partnership, and the appropriate involvement of the Board is both critical and expected. Specific Board Member responsibilities include:

Leadership, governance and oversight

• Serve as a trusted advisor to the President as s/he develops and implements Bold Idea’s strategic plan

• Approve Bold Idea’s annual budget, audit/progress reports and material business decisions; being informed of, and meeting all, legal and fiduciary responsibilities

• Represent Bold Idea to stakeholders; acting as an ambassador for the organization

• Ensure Bold Idea’s commitment to a diverse board and staff that reflects the communities Bold Idea serves

• Determine which programs are consistent with the organization’s mission and monitor their effectiveness

• Contribute to an annual performance evaluation of the President

• Assist the President and Board Chair in identifying and recruiting other Board Members

• Partner with the Board Chair and other Board Members to ensure that board resolutions are carried out

• Serve on committees or task forces and taking on special assignments

Fundraising

Board members will consider Bold Idea a philanthropic priority and make annual gifts that reflect that priority. So that Bold Idea can credibly solicit contributions from foundations, organizations and individuals, Bold Idea requires that 100 percent of members make an annual contribution that is commensurate with their capacity.

Board terms/participation

Bold Idea’s Board Members serve a two-year term to be eligible for reappointment for one additional term. Board meetings are held bi-monthly and committee meetings will be held in coordination with full board meetings. Board Members are also expected to attend at least one program event during the year.

Qualifications

This is an extraordinary opportunity for an individual who is passionate about Bold Idea’s mission. Selected Board Members will have achieved leadership stature in business, philanthropy, education or the nonprofit sector. His/her accomplishments will allow him/her to attract other well-qualified, high-performing Board Members.

At this time, Bold Idea is seeking Board Members with specific experience in at least one of the following areas:

• fund development

• education

• strategic planning

• communications

• marketing

• budgeting

• finance

Ideal candidates will have the following qualifications:

• Extensive professional experience with significant executive leadership accomplishments in business, education, philanthropy or the nonprofit sector

• A commitment to and understanding of Bold Idea’s beneficiaries, preferably based on experience

• Savvy diplomatic skills and a natural affinity for cultivating relationships and persuading, convening, facilitating and building consensus among diverse individuals

• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility and a passion for improving the lives of Bold Idea’s beneficiaries

Service on Bold Idea’s Board of Directors is without remuneration, except for administrative support, travel and accommodation costs in relation to Board Members’ duties.

Nomination Process

Submit your resume and one-page cover letter outlining interest and qualifications to Board Chair Ben Davis at ben@boldidea.org .