Mission: To create pathways for underrepresented racial and ethnic populations to serve on non-profit and community boards across the Hudson Valley and to equip program participants with the tools and connections to serve their communities in these positions.

Program Overview

The Board Institute is designed to make an impact – a positive disruption – in the governance model for board representation. Recognizing the importance, benefit, and power of having diverse leadership across the Hudson Valley region, The Board Institute (TBI) was created in partnership with Freddimir Garcia, who serves as the Program Advisor, with the purpose of creating a pathway for underrepresented minority groups (e.g. Black, Latinx, etc.) to serve on non-profit and community boards of directors across the Hudson Valley.

This program teaches first-time and current board members what it takes to be successful in these leadership positions, equipping individuals with tools and connections, and empowering our underrepresented communities of color.

Program participants will attend sessions over a four month period, examining the board perspective from all angles – these range from board decisions and the implications in the community, to the impacts across the organizational chain. Participants will cover a variety of topics including board service, governance, board financials and audits, strategic planning, development and market analysis. They will also tackle unique personal topics including navigating the board room, community pipeline connections, and the value of development. Each TBI member will have access to community leaders to help navigate the process as they explore their areas of strength and opportunities. They will also have the opportunity to interview with a board(s) in Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester Counties(based on availability).

The Board Institute will run with intentionality, integrity, and commitment to the communities we serve.

Register for one of the Live Virtual Info Sessions!

Tune into this podcast episode to hear about the beginnings of The Board Institute!

Program Details

Program participants will attend 6 sessions over a four-month period, covering a variety of topics including board service, governance, board financials and audits, strategic planning, development and market analysis. They will also tackle unique personal topics including navigating the board room, community pipeline connections, and the value of development.

Through TBI, program participants have access to community leaders to help navigate the process, as well as get an interview with a non-profit or community board(s) in Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester Counties(based on availability).

The sessions to the left are samples of what to expect in the 2023 program and more.  If you have any questions please email .

Organizations may register with The Board Institute seeking candidates for board placement.