This statement of individual board member and officer responsibilities clarifies expectations and
provides criteria by which each board member knows what is expected during their tenure on
the Board. At the beginning of each year, each elected member is expected to read and sign the
document, as an expectation that they will uphold their responsibilities and expectations.
As a member of the Board of Directors or as an Officer of the Public Relations Society of
America, National Capital Chapter (PRSA NCC), I recognize that our continued success depends
on the personal commitment and active involvement of a select group of elected individuals
who embrace the privilege to serve and the responsibility to lead the Chapter.
My Role
An active and engaged Board is vital to the Chapter’s success. By signing this agreement, I commit myself to:
- Know the organization’s mission, strategic plan, goals, policies, and needs.
- Understand the Board’s primary responsibility is financial oversight.
- Familiarize myself with the bylaws that govern the chapter and its relationship with PRSA National.
- Miss no more than three board meetings per year or risk removal.
- Actively participate in Board meetings and undertake assignments and tasks in a timely manner.
- Respond within two business days to all Board-related communications requiring my action.
- Serve as a participating member of at least one committee.
- Call to the attention of the Chapter’s president and/or Officers issues of potential significance to the Chapter.
- Serve as a Chapter ambassador with members and potential members, and engage in mentorship and leadership opportunities, such as participating in new membership activities.
- Support Chapter events through active involvement and participation.
- Attend at least three PRSA NCC programs and events annually and encourage attendance by colleagues.
- Make every attempt to attend chapter-wide membership-related events (e.g., networking receptions, happy hours).
- Take full responsibility for any events I commit to organizing, ensuring adherence to the Chapter’s event planning procedures.
Fiduciary Responsibilities
Together with my fellow Board members, I am responsible for the fiscal oversight of PRSA-NCC. I will:
- Know the budget and actively participate in reviewing, approving, and monitoring it.
- Understand all elements of the Chapter’s fiscal health.
- Ensure that no volunteers commit the Chapter to financial obligations without approval from the Treasurer/President.
Avoiding Conflicts
I will avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest that might embarrass the Board or organization. I will disclose any possible conflicts to the Board and uphold the highest ethical standards as outlined by the PRSA National Code of Ethics. I will not receive financial compensation for my Chapter work during my board tenure.
The Role of Ambassador for PRSA NCC
As a Board member, I am an official ambassador for the organization and will strive to represent PRSA NCC positively. I will not act as an official spokesperson for the organization without proper authority from the president.
