New Member Info

Onboarding Action Checklist

This checklist is designed to help you get started as a member of The Ruth Board. It outlines key steps to complete during your first weeks of service and highlights ways to stay engaged throughout the year. By following these actions, you’ll quickly gain the context, connections, and confidence needed to contribute meaningfully to The Ruth’s mission and community.

Within Your First Week

Read the Board Orientation Handbook in full.
Review The Ruth’s Mission, Vision, and Values.
Complete and return your Board Member Commitment Form and Conflict of Interest Disclosure.
Log in to the Board Slack Channel and confirm access to meeting materials.
Add all board meetings, retreats, and major events to your calendar.

During Your First Few Months

Meet with the Board Chair or Executive Director for a brief welcome and Q&A.
Review the Strategic Plan Summary to understand current goals and priorities.
Identify which committee(s) align with your interests and confirm your participation.
Learn The Ruth’s fundraising philosophy and explore how you can support donor engagement.
Attend your first board meeting and connect with fellow members.

Ongoing Engagement

Participate actively in board meetings and committee work.
Attend performances and special events as an ambassador of The Ruth.
Stay informed about programming and community outreach initiatives.
Advocate for The Ruth within your personal and professional networks.
Review and renew your annual commitment at the start of each fiscal year.

Role of the Board

Board members at The Ruth play a pivotal role in steering the organization towards its mission and objectives. As a member of our esteemed board, you will be expected to embody and champion our organization's values, fostering an environment of integrity, collaboration, and compassion.

Your commitment goes beyond attending board meetings; it extends to actively participating in decision-making, providing strategic insights, and leveraging your unique expertise to guide our initiatives. You are a valued resource, offering your professional knowledge to help shape the direction of our programs and services.

We appreciate your dedication to not only contributing your time and expertise but also supporting the organization financially. Board members are expected to make a meaningful financial contribution that demonstrates their commitment to our cause. This support serves as an example to our community and stakeholders, inspiring confidence in our mission and encouraging others to contribute.

Your role as a board member includes advocating for The Ruth within your networks, fostering relationships with key stakeholders, and promoting our initiatives. By aligning your efforts with our values, dedicating your time, leveraging your expertise, and providing financial support, you become an essential pillar of our organization's success.

Governance vs. Management

An effective board understands the difference between governance (the role of the Board of Directors) and management (the role of staff and executive leadership). The Board provides vision, oversight, and accountability — while management executes the
day-to-day operations needed to fulfill that vision. Both work together as partners, united by The Ruth’s mission to bring people together through the performing arts.

Governance (Board of Directors)

Defines organizational mission, vision, and values

Approves strategic plan and monitors progress

Ensures financial sustainability and approves the annual budget

Hires, supports, and evaluates the Executive Director

Establishes policies and ensures legal and ethical compliance

Advocates for The Ruth and serves as ambassadors in the community

Participates in fundraising and donor cultivation

Evaluates overall organizational performance

Management (Executive Director & Staff)

Implements mission, vision, and values through programs and operations

Develops and executes the strategic plan

Manages day-to-day finances and reports outcomes

Hires, supervises, and manages staff and volunteers

Follows policies and ensures consistent implementation

Promotes programs and initiatives through marketing and outreach

Coordinates fundraising campaigns and donor relations