MDC Board of Directors

Board Member Job Description

PURPOSE – The purpose of the Minnesota Discovery Center (MDC) Board of Directors is to define the organization’s mission and for providing overall leadership and strategic direction.

MEMBERSHIP – The Board shall have up to 13 but no fewer than 9 members. Members serve 2- and 3-year terms and are eligible for re-election.

RESPONSIBILITIES - The Board of the Minnesota Discovery Center (MDC) is responsible for overseeing the mission and purpose of the organization. Its duties include participation in strategic planning and making policy decisions, then securing the financing of them and the monitoring of their execution. Members must be willing to attend the requisite meetings, follow through on commitments, and participate fully in the decision-making process. The board also presents the organization’s image to the community and solicits its support in achieving MDC’s goals.

Fiscal
o Review revenues and expenses, on at least a quarterly basis, to ensure the mission of the organization is being upheld.
o Strengthen MDC’s financial base by participating in and contributing to the organization’s fundraising efforts.
o Participate in strategic planning and the setting of long-term goals.

Legal
o Act on behalf of the organization and its interests, putting aside personal concerns, affiliations, or constituencies.
o Set procedures and policies to ensure MDC is organized and administered in a manner that is in compliance with applicable law.

Ambassadorship
o Promote our mission, generating good will for the organization, and encouraging support for the efforts of the staff and volunteers.
o Make introductions to new communities, corporate sponsors, foundations, and helpful individuals.

Board Governance
o Review, at least annually, the performance of the Board (including its composition, organization, and responsibilities) and take steps to improve its performance.
o Provide candid and constructive criticism, advice, and comments while maintaining a professional environment in which members feel safe to participate.

Staff
o Be willing to use individual expertise to assist in staff organization and development.
o Realize specific personnel issues are to be referred to the appropriate link in the chain of command.

Specific Responsibilities

Attendance and contribution at meetings
o Board meetings are the third Tuesday of every month. Regular attendance and meaningful contribution at Board and committee meetings are essential for effective Board governance. MDC bylaws state a Board Member may be terminated from the Board if a member has more than two unexcused absences from board meetings in the year.
o If not able to meet these rigorous obligations as a Board Member, be willing to offer a resignation to allow another interested person to fulfill the duties.
o Actively participate and attend fundraising activities/events. Recruiting volunteers and contributors as appropriate.
o Adhere to MDC confidentiality, conflict of interest and other applicable policies.

Committee Membership
o Actively participate on at least one of MDC’s standing committees according to the member’s expertise, interests and MDC need. (Please note not all of the members on these committees are board members).

                􀂾 Finance and Audit
                􀂾 Personnel and Policy
                􀂾 Friends of MDC
                􀂾 Building and Grounds
                􀂾 Recreation and Tourism