Conversations with members, committees, Directors, and staff over the last few years revealed that folks value clear roles, purpose-driven meetings, and meaningful ways to contribute that match their strengths
Disruptions from COVID gave us not only the opportunity, but also the necessity to look closely at our structure and processes with the lens of value and efficiency in service of the mission
Quantitative and anecdotal data show lack of engagement, commitment, and alignment with and understanding of our organization and work
Major changes in the last few years have reshaped the way we advance the mission, such as increased grant funding; shifts in associations/membership nationwide; grant-required deliverables; staffing changes, FTE increases, and additional training; hiring HR and accounting services; new and shifting partnerships; and more.
Meeting minutes reveal that the WAPC board has been considering the size and structure of the board as for over 20 years.
WHY MAKE THESE CHANGES?
Increases the opportunity for participation, particularly for committee restructuring
Better utilizes the skills and experience of regional representation and professional organizations
Strengthens leadership development, which supports longevity and relevance of WAPC
Flexibility to adjust work to meet current and urgent needs throughout the state
Increases the feeling of ownership and brings Directors closer to decision-making process
Separates the functions of the board from governance and program/committee work
Creates clear, meaningful positions on the board to foster leadership in those roles, and increase opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way
Aligns mission-needs with appropriate resources, assembling the right people for the task
Discussion Timeline
March 2020 – October 2021
Monthly meetings with WAPC President and Executive Director
Monthly meetings with Perinatal Foundation President and Executive Director
Three By-laws Committee meetings to discuss
WAPC staff advise on proposed changes along the way
June 22, 2021
By-laws Committee presented proposal to Executive Committee for discussion
August 21, 2021
Executive Committee discussed for the second time and voted to recommend proposal to full board for a vote
October 15, 2021
Special meeting held with full board to discuss the proposed recommendations ahead of the vote at the fall board meeting
November 19, 2021
Board voted and approved proposed changes at the fall board meeting
December 15, 2021
Five board members were elected to Director-at-Large positions by their fellow board members.
Transition Timeline
January 1, 2022
New structure goes into effect
January – September 2022
Current officers and Perinatal Foundation representatives remain in positions, plus five Directors-at-Large that were elected by the board
September – October 2022
Nomination period begins at the Wisconsin Perinatal Conference for President-elect and Director-at-Large positions.
