Spokes Board Academy
March 23, 2019
9:00am-5:00pm
Held at: Spokes, 3765 South Higuera Street #140, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Registration Fee: $175
Spokes Members: $150
Do you have the tools to make your board service successful? Are you seeking clarity about your role as a board member? Would you like to serve as a board member but aren’t sure how to get started?
Whether you are just starting board service or have served for years, we’re here to make your experience easier and more rewarding. Start with Spokes Board Academy and develop the skills critical to excellent board service. You’ll also gain practical knowledge of nonprofit management and skills to guide your successful board service and answer questions such as:
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- What are the legal and governance responsibilities of nonprofit board members? Am I liable?
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- Why is managing a nonprofit organization different from other corporations and businesses? How do we achieve our mission?
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- What is the board member’s role in establishing and maintaining productive relationships with fellow board members and nonprofit staff? How can I be most impactful as a leader?
- Why is fundraising is so important? How can I overcome my fear of fundraising?
Join us and learn:
The Key Responsibilities of Officers
The Difference between Governance and Management
Managing for Conflicts of Interest
Who is accountable for the Organization
Why and How to Evaluate Your Executive Director
Elements of Effective Meetings
Building a Philanthropic Culture
Facilitate Discussion, Build Trust
Differences between Nonprofits and Traditional Businesses
Instruction begins promptly at 9:00am. Please arrive between 8:30am-9:00am for check-in and light morning refreshments.
Lunch will be provided.
Registration closes at noon on Wednesday March 20th.
Facilitated by (in order of appearance):
Consuelo Meux, Ph.D.
Consuelo is Spokes’ CEO. Formerly she was Executive Director of a SLO County health-based nonprofit and serves on the SLO County Commission on the Status of Women. Consuelo holds a Ph.D. in Human and Organizational Systems with expertise in organizational strategy, and diversity and inclusion. Originally from Fresno County, she taught at the Nonprofit Support Center of Fresno County, led a Small Business Development Center, served as a Director of Development and Public Relations, and has held university faculty and administrative roles.
Michael Simkins, Ed.D.
Michael has been a member of several nonprofit boards and served as board secretary, treasurer, and president. His professional experience spans the education and nonprofit sectors. He’s been a school principal, university lecturer, and COO of a nonprofit with a $4 million budget. Currently, he is president of the San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre board and the UCLA Alumni Central Coast Network.
Leslie Buckingham
Leslie began working for Morris & Garritano in 2017 as the risk advisor in their small business unit. Her insurance designations include Small Business Coverage Specialist, Accredited Advisor in Insurance and Associate in General Insurance. She is a member of the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Committee, SLO Women’s Network, and Young Professionals Network Group. Leslie has been exposed to many different nonprofit organizations through her father’s extensive involvement with the nonprofit community. He is the owner of Digital West.
Elena Romero
Elena has more than 20 years of successful fund development experience including annual giving, capital, major gifts, planned giving and special project campaigns. Elena is currently employed with Marian Regional Medical Center Foundation and serves on the board of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) San Luis Obispo Chapter. Elena holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations from San Jose State University. She is an alumnus of American Leadership Forum Silicon Valley and Leadership Fresno.
Guest Panelists:
Bettina Swigger, CEO of Downtown SLO. Downtown SLO is a 501c6 nonprofit founded in 1975 whose mission is to foster an economically vibrant Downtown.
Doug Jenzen, Executive Director of the Dunes Center. The Dunes Center promotes the conservation and restoration of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes ecosystem through education, research, and the support of cooperative stewardship.
Mary Ciesinski, Executive Director of ECOSLO. The Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo (ECOSLO) is a local, nonprofit organization that educates, advocates, and acts to protect and enhance the natural environment and human well-being of San Luis Obispo County.
Spokes Board Academy Sponsored by: 
PG&E Funds Provided in 2018
Want more info? Read on!
Why Should I Enroll?
We know the commitment it takes to serve on a board. You’re donating time and expertise to a mission you’re passionate about. Whether you are just starting board service or have served for years, we’re here to make your experience easier and more rewarding. Our team of nonprofit experts are ready to help you achieve excellence in board service.
Who is Spokes?
Since 1996, Spokes has been guiding nonprofits in achieving their goals with support and expert resources. We’re inspired by a vision of a united and effective nonprofit sector powered by proficient leaders…like you!
I’m New to Boards
Over 1200 nonprofit organizations in SLO county are working to tirelessly support causes such as youth, seniors, animals, and the environment. They can’t do it without dedicated board members. Will you join them?
I’m an Employer
Studies show that supporting your employees in board service will:
- Strengthen your brand
- Retain key talent
- Increase employee skills
Ensure your employees are doing their best job representing your company in the community. Invest in their excellent board service today!
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