Teaching a Course on Nonprofit Boards of Directors and Executive Leadership Using Experiential Learning Theory and Simulations

Authors

  • Stephen R. Block University of Colorado

Keywords:

nonprofit boards, teaching governance, executive leadership, governing boards, pedagogy of nonprofit boards

Abstract

Current and future nonprofit executive directors can benefit from learning about the unique qualities and characteristics of nonprofit boards and the role of executive leadership. This article describes a 16-week semester course on “Nonprofit Boards & Executive Leadership,” and conveys the challenges of teaching students about the processes and issues encountered by governing boards and executive directors. The course includes a review of selected board models and engages students in experiential assignments and simulations that reinforce course lectures and reading assignments. Thirty-three questions are identified to assist students in their assignment to observe two board meetings. Among the lessons covered in a semester include the definition and concept of governance, steps in incorporation, completing form 1023 for IRS tax-exempt recognition, governing documents, reporting responsibilities, meta-communication skills, group process, board and committee meeting management, agenda setting, decision-making, human behavior, risk management, risk and liability, board composition, recruitment, founder’s syndrome, among others.

Author Biography

Stephen R. Block, University of Colorado

Research professor in the School of Public Affairs at the University of Colorado. 

Downloads

Issue

Vol. 4 No. 1 (2014)

Section

Articles

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