All Board officers are members of the ONA Executive Committee, which is supported by Executive Director Irving Washington and ONA General Counsel Alison Schary. Its members also may serve on other ONA committees.

President

Serves as the main point of contact with ONA’s Executive Director and as one of the organization’s main public faces. Chairs Board meetings, represents the organization at its annual conference and other events and sets the tone for Board operations. Plays the lead role in managing the Board, calling for Board votes where necessary and surfacing issues that need Board attention. Leads the Executive Committee, works with its members on board recruitment and keeps them informed as to overall ONA developments. Is a member of the Financial Oversight Committee, which monitors annual budget and tax audit. Works as needed with the Nomination Committee. Writes the annual President’s letter and communicates with the membership as necessary. Responsible for Executive Director’s annual performance review, setting salary goals and approving expenses.

Vice-President

Works closely with the President and Executive Director on priority matters for the organization, as well as with other members of the Executive Committee as needed. Represents the Board at events, including the annual conference. Serves as stand-in for the President at events, Board calls and meetings and as official adviser for new board members.

Treasurer

In coordination with ONA’s Executive Director, attends monthly calls with ONA’s accounting firm and other calls or meetings regarding financial matters (ONA banking and investments), delivers supplemental annual tax audit materials as needed, assists in final tax return review and may act as administrator for retirement and credit card accounts. Reviews annual projected and final budgets in coordination with the Executive Director, and helps present them to the Board for its review and approval by vote. Coordinates and records donations from each Board member. Works with the President and the Executive Director to monitor staff salaries and expenses. Participates as needed in Executive Committee matters.

Secretary

Prepares the minutes from two in-person ONA Board meetings, monthly board calls and any votes taken by the Board, whether in person or virtually, working with the Executive Director. Responsible for circulating minutes in a timely manner for Board review and approval, sharing approved minutes with the Executive Director and ensuring they are posted publicly on journalists.org. Responsible for providing a full year of approved minutes to compiler for the annual Board book. Participates as needed in Executive Committee matters.

Committees

There are six committees on which ONA Board members serve. Learn about these groups before moving on.