What is the Role of the Notre Dame Academy’s Board of Directors?
The Board of Directors is responsible for providing strategic leadership and governance oversight to Notre Dame Academy (NDA). This includes setting the school’s vision, mission, and strategic direction, ensuring financial sustainability and overseeing the implementation of policies and initiatives that support the school’s mission. Members of the Board serve on a voluntary basis.
How many members serve on NDA’s Board of Directors?
The Board shall consist of no fewer than five (5) and no more than fifteen (15) members and include at least one (1) professed member of the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre Dame.
How are Board members selected?
Board members are selected based on their commitment to upholding the teachings of the Catholic Church, expertise, experience and commitment to NDA’s mission and values. Typically, Board members serve on a Board Committee prior to being considered for a Board position.After a thorough vetting process, Board members are appointed by the Sisters of Notre Dame SND USA National Ministry Corporation Board. The Chairperson of the Board is elected by the Board.
Who is eligible to serve on NDA’s Board of Directors?
Board members are nominated and selected through a thoughtful process that considers their alignment with the eligibility criteria, their ability to contribute meaningfully to the Board’s work and the needs of Notre Dame Academy at the time of selection. Board members typically serve on a Board Committee prior to serving on the Board of Directors and are from the broader NDA community. All appointments to the Board are made by the SND USA National Ministry Corporation Board.
How often does the Board meet?
The Board of Directors typically meets on a bi-monthly basis, with additional meetings scheduled as needed.
What are the participation expectations for a Board member?
Board members are expected to actively participate in board meetings, committee meetings and other school-related events. They are also encouraged to stay informed about key issues facing the school, contribute their expertise to board discussions and advocate for NDA within the community.
Are there term limits on the NDA Board?
There are term limits in place for the NDA Board. These limits ensure a healthy turnover of leadership and fresh perspectives ensuring continued growth and effectiveness of the board.
Are there committees established within the Board of Directors?
The Board of Directors may establish various committees to focus on specific areas of governance and oversight. NDA’s Board Committees include: Executive, Mission Integration, Educational Programs and Technology, Governance, Finance, Advancement and Facilities and Grounds.
Who is eligible to serve on NDA’s Board committees?
Board members and individuals from the broader NDA community serve on NDA’s Board committees. These committee members are appointed based on their commitment to Notre Dame Academy and its mission as well as their areas of expertise.
How does the Board of Directors ensure accountability and transparency?
The Board of Directors maintains high standards of accountability and transparency through regular financial reporting, independent audits and open communication with stakeholders. Board members adhere to ethical guidelines and governance best practices to ensure the responsible stewardship of NDA’s resources. The Board provides regular reports related to mission, Catholic identity and financial sustainability to the SND USA National Ministry Board.
While transparency and confidentiality may seem like opposing concepts, both are crucial to the effective governance of NDA’s Board of Directors. Transparency involves openly sharing relevant information with stakeholders, such as financial reports, strategic goals, and key decisions, to build trust and ensure accountability. However, confidentiality is equally important, as it protects sensitive information, respects privacy, and allows for candid discussions within the board. At NDA, our Board of Directors carefully balances these two principles—ensuring that stakeholders are kept informed about the school’s operations while safeguarding the integrity of confidential matters that require discretion. This balance is essential to maintaining the trust and confidence of the NDA community.
How can members of the NDA community get in touch with the Board of Directors?
Members of the NDA community can email NDA’s Board Chair, Mark Hausfeld, at mhausfeld@sims-lohman.com or NDA’s Board Vice Chair, Jessica Rawe, at Jessica.Rawe@gmail.com.