Conferences and Workshops

AGB's conferences and workshops provide new and experienced board leaders with information they need to strengthen their institutions and the opportunity to network, share insight and experiences, and learn from each other. Programs range from highly focused institutes for teams of two (usually the board chair and the CEO) to national gatherings of nearly 1,000 participants.

The programs are designed especially for trustees, presidents, board professional staff, and senior-level administrators.  If you are interested in sponsorship, contact Brent Mundt.

National Conference on Trusteeship
An average of 800 individuals typically attend the National Conference on Trusteeship, which is held annually in the spring. It features governance-related issues and challenges in several program formats to encourage networking:

• Plenary addresses provide insight into timely issues
• Panel discussions offer perspectives from a variety of experts
• Small-group sessions focus on specific best practices

The National Conference also hosts the Workshop for Board Professionals.

Institute for Board Chairs and Presidents of Independent Colleges and Universities
This popular program enables both members of an institution's leadership team to strengthen their relationship to benefit their college or university. In a stimulating atmosphere, board chairs and presidents can discover new and better ways to collaborate and lead their institutions.

As the three-day program progresses, participants develop a specific plan that addresses their institution's unique governance needs. Sessions encourage active participation in small-group discussions and with the program's facilitators. Additionally, the program provides ample time for each leadership team to work together privately. This program, limited to 15-17 teams, is held in January and June.

Foundation Leadership Forum
Targeted to meet the specific needs of foundations, this annual program provides foundation chief executives, foundation board chairs, committee chairs, and other board leaders the opportunity to exchange ideas and explore best practice for improving the performance of the foundation board. The rigorous and interactive program enables participants to interact with nationally recognized professionals and policy analysts, address current issues, explore best practices, and share insight and ideas with other foundation leaders.

Benefits for board leaders and members

• Explore issues in a structured format while strengthening your relationship with the chief executive
• Develop practical strategies for improving board performance
• Understand the responsibilities of the board chair, committee chairs, and board members

Benefits for chief executives

• Enhance relationship with the board chair and board members in a professional but relaxed setting
• Share experiences and ideas with other chief executives from peer foundations
• Participate in discussions of the foundation's mission and the board's responsibilities for advancing it

Workshop for Board Professional Staff
This workshop, held in conjunction with the National Conference on Trusteeship, is conducted specifically for board professionals. A planning committee of board professionals develops the workshops, roundtables, and plenary sessions to ensure that the program delivers support, information, and professional growth to those in the profession.

The workshop also provides ample networking opportunities so attendees from diverse institutions can share expertise, offer suggestions, and get acquainted. Plan to attend the National Conference on Trusteeship, too!

Members qualify for significant discounts; teams of individuals from member institutions who register at the same time save even more. For more information, contact registrar@agb.org or call 202-296-8400.