Shape the Future of Environmental Journalism
Board members are essential to making the Society of Environmental Journalists’ mission real and relevant. For more than 30 days, SEJ board members have played a critical role in advancing the public’s understanding of environmental issues.
Why run for the board?
Make an Impact
SEJ is the largest network of environmental journalists in North America, dedicated to covering pressing environmental issues such as energy transition, climate change, environmental justice, biodiversity and more. As a board member, you’ll help shape the direction of SEJ and the field.
Grow Professionally
Board members develop nonprofit leadership skills, including financial management, fundraising, governance, and strategic planning. Board service builds upon your skills and experiences through volunteerism that matters.
Expand Your Network
Serving on the SEJ board can lead to new professional opportunities. You’ll build lasting relationships and be recognized as a thought leader in environmental journalism.
What does the board do?
As a board member, you’ll help ensure SEJ remains mission-driven, financially sound and responsive to the membership. You’ll also serve as a visible ambassador for SEJ and environmental journalism more broadly.
Responsibilities
- Ensure SEJ complies with laws, bylaws and policies
- Shape SEJ’s strategic direction support programming, membership, fundraising and outreach
- Champion SEJ’s commitments to DEI
- Review and approve the annual budget and oversee fiscal policies and controls
- Participate in fundraising efforts and help ensure SEJ’s long-term financial sustainability
- Support the development and performance of SEJ programs
- Oversee key employment decisions, including hiring and evaluating the executive director
Expectations
Learn about SEJ
- Learn SEJ’s mission, bylaws, policies and strategic priorities
- Understand nonprofit governance and your legal and fiduciary responsibilities as a nonprofit board member
- Stay informed about the needs of SEJ’s members and how SEJ serves them
Be a collaborative team member
- Treat fellow board members, staff and members with professionalism and respect
- Stay active on board communication platforms
- Serve on two standing committees
- Represent SEJ at special events
What is the time commitment?
- Expect to dedicate one to three hours per week, depending on your role and the organization’s need
- Board officers and Committee chairs may spend an additional hour or more a week
- Attend four board meetings per year, typically two virtually and two in person
- Board members are encouraged to attend SEJ’s annual conference
Additional Information
- Board members receive travel reimbursements for eligible expenses, see Policy on Expenses for more information
- Board members are not eligible for SEJ Awards or FEJ grants during their term
- Board members are expected to disclose conflicts of interests and recuse themselves from relevant votes
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