Board Member (Volunteer / Unpaid)

Board Member (Volunteer / Unpaid)

Institute for Democratic Discourse

National | Remote

About the Organization

The Institute for Democratic Discourse is a nonprofit research and public-engagement organization dedicated to strengthening democratic discourse by examining how free expression operates in practice within contemporary democratic societies. Our work focuses on the cultural, institutional, and social conditions that shape open inquiry, particularly in higher education and public debate. The Institute is nonpartisan and committed to intellectual pluralism, rigorous analysis, and open dialogue.

Role Overview

The Institute for Democratic Discourse seeks qualified individuals to serve on its Board of Directors. Board members play a critical governance role, providing strategic oversight, fiduciary responsibility, and institutional guidance as the organization grows.

This is an unpaid, volunteer position.

Key Responsibilities

• • Provide governance and strategic oversight consistent with the organization’s mission and bylaws
  • Participate in quarterly board meetings (remote)
  • Review and approve major policies, budgets, and strategic initiatives
  • Support the organization’s long-term sustainability and institutional integrity
  • Serve as a thought partner to the Executive Director/CEO while maintaining appropriate governance boundaries
  • Participate in committees or special initiatives as needed

Time Commitment

• • Regular board meetings: One remote meeting per quarter, typically held during the second week of each quarter
  • Additional meetings: Occasional special meetings may be convened by the Executive Director or at the request of two board members, as provided in the bylaws
  • Preparation time for meetings and occasional email correspondence between meetings

Estimated total commitment: 3–6 hours per quarter, with some variation depending on organizational needs.

Desired Qualifications

We welcome candidates with experience or interest in one or more of the following areas:

• • Higher education, academic governance, or research institutions
  • Law, public policy, civil liberties, or constitutional issues
  • Nonprofit governance, finance, fundraising, or organizational development
  • Journalism, publishing, or public scholarship
  • Demonstrated commitment to open inquiry, pluralism, and democratic norms

Prior board experience is welcome but not required.

Governance and Compensation

• • Board members serve without compensation
  • Directors serve two-year terms, with the possibility of reappointment
  • Board members are expected to act in the best interests of the organization and to comply with applicable conflict-of-interest and governance policies

How to Express Interest

Interested individuals are invited to submit:

• • A brief statement of interest
  • A résumé or CV
  • Optional: a short note describing relevant experience or perspective

Applications and inquiries may be sent to:

institute@democraticdiscourse.org

Applicants must be U.S. citizens. We accept applicants nationwide.