ACSO webinars connect you with experts in the field who present on an array of orchestra and performing arts management topics like fundraising, marketing, board development, and more! Webinars are 60-to-90-minutes and most are recorded for on-demand viewing for members, Unless otherwise indicated, webinars are FREE for ACSO Members and $30 for Not-Yet-Members.
Need help registering? Email office@acso.org.
Boards and Belonging: Building and Sustaining Healthy Orchestra Boards Through a Lens of Inclusion
Two-Part Webinar (April 30 & May 7)
Presenter: Jessica Schmidt, Principal Consultant, Orchestrate Inclusion
The two, 90-minute sequential sessions of this webinar series will focus on orchestra board member recruitment and retention through a lens of EDIB (equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging).
Participants must register for each webinar separately and are not required to attend both sessions, but participation in both is encouraged since concepts from both sessions will build upon each other. Webinars will not be recorded with the intent of honoring the unique conversation and participation of each session.
Part 1: Wednesday, April 30, 2025 | 11:30-1:00 PM PT
Session #1 will begin by identifying the many “why’s” behind the importance of building a board of individuals who represent a range of lived experiences and identities (including but not limited to: race, disability, age, gender identity and socio-economic situation). Participants will consider the essential nature of authentic relationship-building in the process of candidate cultivation, also examining techniques for making the board member identification and recruitment process one that is inclusive and focused on the experience of the candidate.
Topics will include:
- Broadening invitation: sharing word of board openings in a meaningful way
- Use of a board rubric
- Best practices in recruitment through a lens of EDIB (board job description creation, interview processes, etc.)
Part 2: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 | 11:30-1:00 PM PT
Session #2 will focus on creating and sustaining an organizational culture that is truly ready to welcome and engage individuals from a wide range of lived experiences, centering those who have experienced historic and current marginalization based on identity. What are essential elements of creating a board culture that allows all board members not just to be present, but to contribute fully and deepen their involvement over time?
Topics will include:
- Psychological safety and dominant culture
- Hidden points of exclusion
- Measuring board culture