SAL Board Member Prospectus

Board members are the custodians of SAL’s integrity, stewards of its reputation, and architects of its future. They are called upon to contribute their time, thought, financial support, and energy to ensure the viability and growth of the organization. The board sets policy and focuses on long-range, strategic issues; individual board members do not become involved directly in management, personnel, or programmatic decisions.

Download SAL Board Prospectus

OUR IMPACT

Since launching our first season in 1988, we have brought leading writers and thinkers to Seattle while investing deeply in the region’s literary community. Through our Literary Programs and Arts Education Programs, we connect readers, writers, youth, families, and educators with the power of storytelling. Each year, over 33,000 audience members and 6,000 students participate in programs designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection.

MISSION

Seattle Arts & Lectures cultivates transformative experiences through story and language with readers and writers of all generations.

VISION

We envision a community where stories are treasured, creative and critical thinking brings us together, and everyone reads.

TERMS & TIME COMMITMENT

  • Serve a minimum three-year term, with an option to serve two consecutive terms
  • Contribute 5–10 hours per month to SAL’s work
  • Prepare, attend, and meaningfully participate in seven board meetings per year
  • Attend a one-day annual board retreat at the beginning of the season
  • Attend a minimum of four SAL Literary Programs events per year
  • Serve on at least one committee

COMMITTEES

  • Finance
  • Governance
  • Gala
  • Executive (Board officers and chair of Governance)

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Maintain confidentiality of board and committee discussions
  • Guard against personal or business conflicts of interest
  • Share fiduciary responsibility for SAL’s sound financial management

FUNDRAISING

Board members are expected to make a meaningful annual financial contribution and actively support SAL’s fundraising efforts, which include:

  • Annual WITS Luncheon (Fall)
  • End of Year Campaign (Winter)
  • Words Bloom Gala (Spring)

 

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

SAL is strengthened by diversity of representation. We are committed to building a board that reflects our community and brings an equity and belonging lens to all its work. Board members are ambassadors for SAL, and are knowledgeable about and actively promoting its mission, vision, and strategic goals. SAL board members are selected for their experience, wisdom, and commitment to the collective good of the organization.

We welcome candidates from a range of professional and Board backgrounds, including experience with:

  • Financial management and fiscal oversight
  • Fundraising and donor stewardship
  • Organizational development and governance
  • Community engagement and relationship-building

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US

SAL is committed to making board service meaningful, well-supported, and connected to our mission, vision, and values. We will:

  • Orient you thoroughly so you can contribute with confidence
  • Ensure meetings are well-prepared and focused to make the best use of your time and attention
  • Keep you informed of SAL’s opportunities, challenges, and successes with candor and transparency
  • Connect you to SAL’s programs, artists, and community, not just the governance
  • Recognize and celebrate the expertise, relationships, and thought you bring to our work

INTERESTED IN JOINING OUR BOARD?

Please complete this form to indicate your interest in the Board. Thank you!

COMPLETE FORM