The Newsletter for Chairs of Theological School Boards
Vol. 1 No. 7

In 35 years of working with theological schools, the In Trust Center has helped thousands of leaders work through some of the toughest issues and questions they’ve faced. In the process, we’ve learned plenty about facing hard questions.

For governing boards, one of the key things to do is ask the right questions that will help frame the issues an institution or a leader is facing. In the most recent issue of In Trust magazine, the Rev. Dr. David Rowe asks four questions that I think every board should ask itself to frame the issues. David is an insightful leader who has spent his life in education and the church and has a great sense of what is helpful in times like this. 

Looking back in our archives, let me suggest some other resources that are related:

• Pros and cons: Dr. Christa R. Klein, the president emerita of the In Trust Center, wrote about the costs and benefits of a board asking hard questions. I’d highly recommend it, as it still resonates.
• Top mistakes: You won’t be surprised that failing to ask hard questions is one of the top mistakes nonprofit boards make. Click here to find out what other mistakes boards made.

Listen for more: Yes, listening is always good, and I’d also encourage you to check out our podcast, which includes several important conversations about board governance. I’d suggest the Wise Stewards Governance series to start. You can find it here.

While I send this just to board chairs, you’re welcome to share and discuss it with your chief executive and board, whether to discuss it or create some space for board education. I hope it serves you well. Would you let me know what you’re thinking and what else might be helpful in your work?

With gratitude for all you do in theological education,
Amy Kardash
President