Tools and Toolkits

A new or future foundation CEO may be responsible for oversight of a wide range of functions including fundraising, alumni relations, endowment management, real estate initiatives, public-private partnerships, and marketing and communications.

A new CEO brings new leadership and management styles that can generate discomfort or anxiety for employees and institution partners. A new leadership role can be particularly challenging for foundation CEOs who often rely on the support of institution as …

The idea of the “first 100 days” as a critical period in laying the foundation for a new leader’s tenure dates back to Franklin D. Roosevelt, who conducted a radio address at the end of the third month of his …

AGB Board of Directors’ Statement on Conflict of Interest with Guidelines on Compelling Benefit AGB This statement, drafted with input from higher education leaders, recommended 12 principles to inform board decisions and discussion on conflict of interest. The companion “Guidelines on Compelling …

While seasoned advancement professionals are likely familiar with working with a president or other CEO, they may never have reported to a board or been responsible for supporting a board in fulfilling its fiduciary and oversight responsibilities. They also may …

To serve as effective fiduciaries, governing board members must put the best interests of the institution first, to ensure its mission fulfillment and long-term sustainability. While they must be open and listen to a wide range of viewpoints and approaches …

A governing board with qualities like the following can recognize influences that may conflict with its mission and priorities and is prepared to deal with them appropriately. How well do these qualities describe your board? Fiduciary Decisions Governing board decisions reflect the …

Colleges, universities, and institutionally related foundations may face situations that further complicate their efforts to advance and strengthen mission-focused outcomes. Governing boards that have or may encounter conflicts should update their governance policies, practices, risk management frameworks, and communications plans …

The resources in this toolkit are designed to help you excel in your position through professional development and networking opportunities. By accessing the resources in the toolkit, you will be better equipped to assist your board to govern with confidence …

Get a head start on your first year of AGB membership. Use this checklist as a guide to AGB resources that will help position you for success with appropriate tools, professional development, and networking opportunities. This checklist can be …