By Jennifer L. VanderVeen, CELA, CAP, Fellow
On behalf of the NAELA Nominating Committee, I invite you to consider serving on the Academy’s Board of Directors, or consider nominating a colleague. Nominations must be received no later than October 9, 2020.
The NAELA Board of Directors reflects the views and interests of all NAELA members. The Board provides leadership, fosters a shared vision and sense of mission, and is responsible for the Academy’s fiscal health. Our Board represents the finest leaders in the profession, and we need your help to identify and recruit the next generation of strong, committed leaders.
The Nominating Committee is seeking members to serve as directors, which carry a two-year term and begin June 1, 2021.
What Does the Nominating Committee Look for in a Candidate?
• Demonstrated commitment to NAELA and the profession of elder and special needs law.
• Strong background in committee and volunteer work on a local and/or national level.
• A proven track record of affecting change.
• Ability and commitment to dedicate the time to prepare for and attend three in-person board meetings per year and additional conference calls as needed.
• A proven team player.
• Sound judgment and integrity.
• Ability to subordinate special interests.
• Exemplary personal conduct.
Candidates must have been NAELA members at least two years before their nomination or appointment as a Director of the Academy.
What’s Expected of Board Members?
• Promote and adhere to the Board Statement of Ethics and Responsibility, Aspirational Standards for the Practice of Elder Law, and the Academy’s Bylaws and mission.
• Prepare for and attend all Board meetings.
• Attend meetings of their respective Chapters.
• Keep informed on Academy matters.
• Take part in NAELA Board deliberations and arrive at opinions after careful consideration of all presented information.
• Vote in the best interest of NAELA.
• Serve as an ambassador on behalf of NAELA, representing the Academy in a statesperson-like manner.
• Demonstrate support for the NAELA Foundation by contributing financially or otherwise as their means permit.
• Demonstrate the capacity to lead or serve on NAELA committees as needed.
What Are Some of the Benefits?
• A role in advancing your profession.
• Exposure to a wealth of personal and professional contacts.
• Access to up-to-date information about the challenges facing your practice in the future.
• The chance to exchange ideas and perspectives with other volunteer leaders.
Want to Make a Difference?
This opportunity to serve on the NAELA Board will put you in the driver’s seat as the Academy continues to expand its presence in the elder and special needs law space and provide greater value to its members.
Join the team that’s shaping the future of elder and special needs law. Put your experience and expertise to work to the benefit of your peers, your profession, and your clients.
As chair of the Nominating Committee and immediate past president, I look forward to your participation in our nomination and selection process.
If you are interested in serving or know of potential candidates, please send a letter of interest and a résumé to: Peter Wacht, CAE, Executive Director at NAELA, 1577 Spring Hill Road, Suite 310, Vienna, VA 22182; e-mail [email protected]; 703-563-9504, fax.
About the Author
Jennifer L. VanderVeen, CELA, CAP, Fellow, is NAELA Immediate Past President and Nominating Committee Chair.