Theological school boards in Canada and the U.S. value diverse perspectives, yet they often fall short of true representation, remaining predominantly composed of older white men. Fostering diversity is hindered by conflict-averse leaders and reluctance to disrupt the status quo. Wise Stewards program director Rebekah Burch Basinger advises that to encourage diversity, board leaders can take four steps: (1) Acknowledge discomfort about diversity candidly; (2) Link diversity to the institution’s mission; (3) Develop a strategic, sustainable plan; and (4) Foster belonging by embracing differences. Rather than a checkbox, diversity is viewed as a divine gift that enriches leadership and broadens perspectives. Read and download the document for full details.

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Who's Next? Succession Planning for Boards

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Planning for board officer vacancies should start well in advance with an intentional, smooth, and carefully designed transition plan.

Seminaries are people too: Mindsets that make or break institutional change

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Theological schools are launching innovative projects to reshape education, but many struggle to achieve transformational change despite strong grant funding. Human nature, organizational culture, and governance practices often hinder progress. In this webinar, Drs. Aaron Einfeld and David Rowe provide tools to identify/overcome hidden barriers to change, offer practical steps for institutional leadership to move their institutions forward

I See That Hand

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Board members are typically recruited for their leadership, business acumen, and networks. Dr. Rebekah Basinger, project director of the In Trust Center’s Wise Stewards Initiative, will discuss how strategic questioning and interrogation skills are essential for effective board stewardship.

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