Individual Board member duties and responsibilities
The role of individual Directors of Local Independent Online News Publishers
General expectations
- Know and support LION’s mission, values, goals, policies, programs, and services.
- Stay abreast of the organization’s developing trends.
- Serve in leadership positions or undertake special assignments willingly when asked.
- Avoid prejudiced judgments on the basis of information received from individuals.
- Urge those with grievances to follow established policies and procedures.
- Suggest nominees for the Board.
- Speak on behalf of the organization only when asked to do so by the Board Chair
- Bring a sense of humor to the Board’s deliberations.
Meetings
- Prepare for and participate in Board and committee meetings, and other organization activities.
- Support the majority decision of the Board.
- Maintain confidentiality of the Board’s regular meetings and executive sessions.
- Suggest agenda items periodically for Board and committee meetings to ensure that significant policy related matters are addressed.
Avoiding conflict
- Disclose any possible conflicts to the Board Chair in a timely fashion.
- Be independent and objective. Form decisions based on a sense of fairness and personal integrity.
- Never accept or offer favors or gifts from or to anyone who does business with the organization.
Fiduciary responsibility
- Ensure fiduciary responsibilities of the Board are responsibly met.
- Faithfully read and understand the organization’s financial statements and otherwise help the Board fulfill its fiduciary responsibility.
Fundraising
- Give an annual, personal, cash gift according to personal means.
- Assist resource development by supporting fund raising and sponsorships through personal influence with others.
Support the 2026 Summit
We're heading to San Diego from September 9–11 for our 2026 Independent News Sustainability Summit. Sponsorship opportunities are now available; check out our deck and connect with us at summit@lionpublishers.com to sign on for next year's conference.
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