INPS Seeking Governing Board Members

Dedicated to the study, appreciation, and conservation of the native flora and natural communities of Illinois

INPS Seeking Governing Board Members

Janine Catchpole has recently stepped down as President. INPS is very pleased to announce that our most recent former president, Emily Dangremond, has agreed to serve as President Pro-Tem until a new President can be elected.

The Illinois Native Plant Society (IL-NPS) is seeking well-qualified individuals to serve on the State Governing Board who are committed to helping the organization grow to better serve our mission.

President

The IL-NPS is seeking a President. The board president acts as the executive director, evaluating IL-NPS needs, creating management structures, recruiting and managing staff, volunteers and contractors, as needed. The ideal candidate should have a background in leadership and botanical sciences as well experience with 501(c)(3) organizations. The duties include chairing memberships meetings, Governing Board meetings, and Executive Committee meetings. The president shall be an ex-officio member of all committees and shall see that all committees function. Good organizational and communications skills are a plus. This is a volunteer position. The term of office for the President is two years, and there is no limit on the number of terms that may be served consecutively.

Treasurer

The IL-NPS is seeking a Treasurer. The ideal candidate should have a financial background as well experience with 501(c)(3) organizations; be familiar with gift and donation solicitations, budgeting, and all required financial reports typical for nonprofits. The duties include overseeing the bookkeeper, working with our fundraising team, and our chapter treasurers as well as serving on the INPS Board Executive Committee. Good organizational and communications skills are also a plus. This is a volunteer position. The term of office for the treasurer is two years, and there is no limit on the number of terms that may be served consecutively.

Membership Chair

The IL-NPS is seeking an individual to serve as Membership Chair. The ideal individual should have nonprofit experience in membership development and retention, understand the needs of our members, have good writing skills, and be proficient in Excel or similar programs. The candidate will maintain the membership list, prepare membership directory, assist with fundraising activities as well as serving on the INPS Board Executive Committee. Good organizational and communications skills are also a plus. This is a volunteer position. The term of office for the Membership chair is two years, and there is no limit on the number of terms that may be served consecutively.

Webmaster

The IL-NPS is seeking an individual to serve as Webmaster. Webmaster responsibilities include uploading content, creating forms for event registration and grant applications, and generally keeping the website up to date. The Webmaster should be computer savvy and familiar with WordPress. The term of office for the Webmaster chair is two years, and there is no limit on the number of terms that may be served consecutively.

At-Large Members

The IL-NPS is seeking up to three individuals to serve as an At-large Governing Board member. The ideal candidate will have non-profit board experience and bring a suite of knowledge, networks, and ideas to the position. A passion for protecting our Illinois native plants and the fauna they support at both large and small scales. At-large members are expected to chair or serve on Governing Board Committees. Good organizational and communications skills are also a plus. This is a volunteer position. The term of office for members-at-large is three years with 1/3 being elected each year. 

Application Process

If you wish to be considered for one of the advertised board positions, please reply to illinoisplants@gmail.com. In the subject line, please put the desired position you wish to be considered for. Please attach a photo, a brief biography and resume along with a statement addressing what you can offer the IL-NPS, and how your skills, knowledge and experience can help us fulfill our mission. Board members must be or become members in good standing prior to the election, which is slated to be held in January of 2024.

All applications are due by December 31, 2023. Please forward along to anyone who may be qualified and interested!

Questions? Please email IL-NPS Vice President, Susanne Masi,
at illinoisplants@gmail.com.