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Enriching firm friendships across our alumni and Buckeye communities

Application Process

Application Process

The Board of Directors oversees the executive, financial and administrative affairs of The Ohio State University Alumni Association (OSUAA).

The Board consists of 17 directors. Three are elected each year for a five-year term, and two are university representatives appointed by the Office of the President. Additionally, the chair of the Alumni Advisory Council, the president of the Student-Alumni Council, and the immediate past president of Student-Alumni Council serve as ex officio members.

Board positions require a considerable commitment of time and energy. Candidates are encouraged to consider personal and career priorities during the coming years in addition to their desire to contribute to the strategic goals of the OSUAA and university.

Board Member Expectations

As a Board member, you will be asked to establish your intended legacy, including outlining goals to achieve it. This is a personal commitment in addition to your Board assignments and the work you will conduct in your committees. Your fellow Board members and OSUAA staff will support your goals with helpful tools, resources and examples. You will be asked to share and reflect on your legacy throughout your term. Below are guiding principles to help you understand the scope of these expectations.

  • The OSUAA Board will require active membership status. Active membership status is defined as:
    • Alumni donor – Financial donation of any amount
    • Life donor – Financial donation of $150 annually or $10 monthly
    • Life member (grandfathered) – Life members prior to the membership model change in 2012
  • Board members will commit their time, talent and/or treasure.
  • Each Board member’s unique capacity and interests will be taken into consideration, resulting in meaningful philanthropic journeys.
  • Current and former Board members will be asked to share stories and the impact of their philanthropic commitments.
  • Your time as an incoming Board member will be spent listening and learning from your peers and thinking about what you want to accomplish.
  • Throughout your term as an active Board member, you will set goals for yourself and put your plan into action.
  • As an outgoing Board member, you will reflect on what you have accomplished so far and share your experience with your peers. This is also an opportunity for you to think about your legacy once your term concludes.

Selection Process

  • Nominations and self-nominations can be submitted using the form below from November 1 to December 20.
  • The Board Governance committee, appointed by the Board, meets and provides recommendations of candidates to the full Board.
  • The full Board votes to approve three candidates during the spring meeting.

The strongest candidates for the board are individuals who:

  • Have the desire to utilize their talents and expertise to support the OSUAA’s vision and strategic plan while guiding its evolution.
  • Ideally, have volunteered with the OSUAA or in an alumni capacity with The Ohio State University.
  • Have demonstrated a strong capacity for leadership and/or possess a professional background and associated achievements that add value to the Board.
  • Offer a diverse perspective or experience.

Outside of the two directors nominated by the Office of the President, Board members may not be current employees of The Ohio State University.

Submit Nomination