Board of Directors

Applications and Nominations for the Fairbanks Arts Board of Directors are open!

The mission of Fairbanks Arts is to promote excellence in contemporary and traditional arts in Alaska’s Interior. Fairbanks Arts is the oldest community arts council in the state and the official arts organization for both the Fairbanks North Star Borough and the City of Fairbanks, providing service, information, and support to local artists, organizations, and audiences.

Fairbanks Arts provides programming in performing arts, literary arts, visual arts, and arts education with the assistance of advisory committees composed of community volunteers. We believe in creating a healthier community in and through the arts. 

POSITION

The Board of Directors of Fairbanks Arts Association (FAA) is a governing board with a legal and fiduciary responsibility to the organization. Board Members have broad responsibilities to FAA and the public, as well as specific tasks and responsibilities. The Board maintains a strong partnership with Fairbanks Arts’ Executive Director, who manages the organization’s day-to-day operations. Appropriate involvement of the Board is both essential and expected.

Responsibilities of the Board as a whole include: 

  • Determining the mission and purposes of FAA
  • Strategic and organizational planning 
  • Approving and monitoring FAA’s programs and services 
  • Ensuring strong fiduciary oversight and financial management 
  • Fundraising and resource development
  • Selecting and evaluating the performance of the Executive Director 
  • Assessing its own performance as the governing body of FAA

Responsibilities of individual Board Members include:

  • Knowing and understanding FAA’s mission, programs, policies, and needs
  • Serving as a trusted advisor to the Executive Director as they develop and implement Fairbanks Arts’ strategic plan
  • Preparing for, attending, and participating in board meetings
  • Reviewing the agenda, financial statements, and supporting materials prior to board and committee meetings  
  • Assisting the Executive Director, Board President, and Nomination Committee in identifying and recruiting other Board Members and, in doing so, ensuring FAA’s’ commitment to a diverse board and staff that reflects the communities it serves 
  • Participating fully in one or more committees, assisting with events, and taking on special assignments 
  • Representing FAA to stakeholders; serving as an active ambassador for the organization to identify and secure resources and partnerships that help FAA advance its mission
  • Leveraging connections, networks, and resources to help FAA advance its mission
  • Maintaining annual membership with FAA OR giving a personally meaningful annual financial donation. So that Fairbanks Arts can credibly solicit contributions from foundations, individuals, and agencies, it is important that 100% of Board Members are invested in the organization 

Board terms

By agreeing to serve FAA, a member of the Board of Directors agrees to participate in one (1) 3-year term. A board member may serve 3 consecutive 3-year terms for a total of 9 years. After serving 3 consecutive terms, a board member must rotate off the board for one (1) year. During this time, they may choose to still participate in board committees but will not be part of the formal Board of Directors. After a one-year hiatus, the member may reapply to the board of directors.

Qualifications

Fairbanks Arts Board service is a great opportunity for an individual who is passionate about a community arts-based mission.

Ideal candidates will have the following qualifications:

  • Previous experience on a board is preferred but not required. A successful candidate will exhibit eagerness and commitment to learning about FAA, its role in the community, nonprofit governance, and will take on the responsibility of being a team member within the organization’s leadership.
  • Diplomatic skills and an ability to cultivate relationships with other board members, FAA staff, and the public for the betterment of the organization’s fundraising, programming, and outreach efforts.
  • Personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and a passion for driving forward the mission of Fairbanks Arts and improving the experiences of FAA’s beneficiaries.

Service on Fairbanks Arts Association’s Board of Directors is a volunteer appointment without remuneration. The board meets six times a year, with committees and projects occurring between meetings, and ad hoc meetings as needed. The time commitment for board members ranges from 6-10 hours per month. Fairbanks Arts Association’s full Board Responsibilities are available upon request by emailing info@fairbanksarts.org.

Volunteers are at the heart of Fairbanks Arts and its community-driven efforts, we appreciate your interest in creating a healthier community in and through the arts through board service! Click the button below to access the Nomination and Application form.       


Fairbanks Arts Association Board of Directors

Klara Maisch, President

Lyndsi Harris, Vice President

Sarah Gillam, Secretary

JR Ancheta, Treasurer

Scott Hansen, Member

Brianna Reagan, Member

Victoria Nelson, Member

Katie Yarrow, Member

       

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