Selecting a Governing Body

One of the earliest, if not the first, milestones on the way to formalizing a network is the formation of a governing body. Most typically the governing body is composed of network members who are elected by members or participants in the network. The governing body is, in turn, accountable to members of the network.

Things to consider when selecting a governing body:

Numbers. How large do you want the governing body to be (i.e., how many positions)?

Composition. Do you want to ensure that the governing body includes: a specified number of men and women; a specified number of PHAs; or a specific number of members from a geographical location?

Length of Term. How long will the term of members of the governing body be (i.e., one year, two years, etc)?

Election Procedures. Who gets to nominate a candidate for the governing body? Do you want the members of the governing body elected by an open show of hands or by a secret ballot? Who gets to vote?