Resource Library

Reprinted with permission from Virginia Mason Medical Center.

Leadership. Guides and directs the governance process, centering the work of the board on the organization’s mission, vision and strategic direction.

A duty of obedience to the charitable purpose of the organization, a duty that should be demonstrable in all the board’s decisions. A duty of loyalty, to act based on best interests of the organization and the wider community it serves, not the narrow interests of an individual or stakeholder group. A duty of care, to be diligent in carrying out the work of the board by preparing for meetings, attending faithfully, participating in discussions, asking questions, making sound and independent business judgments, and seeking independent opinions when necessary.

The following is intended to be an example that boards should adapt to meet their individual needs.