In 2021, Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress launched The Board Institute to advance greater diversity of board composition across the Hudson Valley. In the region and beyond, nonprofit and community boards of directors often lack racial and ethnic representation that reflects the communities they serve. Recognizing the benefit, importance, and power of having diverse governance leadership, Pattern created The Board Institute in partnership with Freddimir Garcia, Program Advisor, to provide education and create a pathway for underrepresented people of color to serve on nonprofit and community boards. This program teaches first-time and current board members of color what it takes to be successful in these leadership positions, equipping individuals with tools and connections, and empowering underrepresented communities of color. The Board Institute was designed to make an impact – a positive disruption – in the governance model for board representation.
Program participants attend sessions over a four-month period. They examine board responsibilities from all angles, and they focus on how board decisions can affect organizations and the communities they serve. Participants cover a variety of topics including board service, governance, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at the board level, finance and audits, and fundraising and development. They also tackle unique personal topics including navigating the board room, networking, and the value of development. Each program participant has access to community leaders to help navigate the process as they explore their areas of strength, interest, and opportunities. Alumni also have the opportunity to interview boards in Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester counties. Program faculty include representatives from the Dyson Foundation, Family Services, Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress, RBT CPAs, Rhinebeck Bank, United Negro College Fund, Vassar College, and others.
To date, 23 community members of color have successfully completed the program, and some have joined the boards of Hudson River Housing, Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress, Orange County Arts Council, Poughkeepsie Farm Project, and the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Board Institute is actively engaged in identifying suitable organizations and helping alumni to find a mutual fit that matches their interests with the needs of local boards.
In 2023, the Dyson Foundation renewed a designated support grant to Pattern for Progress for The Board Institute.