Introduction

As part of Out to Innovate’s ongoing efforts to achieve our mission, increase transparency, and increase participation, we have an annual open call for volunteers to serve on Out to Innovate’s Board of Directors.

Out to Innovate is an all-volunteer organization, and the Board has primary responsibility to keep the organization moving forward as a force for equality, inclusion, and STEM excellence.

We are actively seeking the Board to represent a diverse mix of gender, race, ethnicity, age, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, professional background, skill sets, geography, and career stage.

Out to Innovate Background

Out to Innovate is a professional society that educates and advocates for LGBTQ+ students and professionals in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Out to Innovate’s mission is to empower LGBTQ+ individuals in STEM by providing education, advocacy, professional development, networking, and peer support.

Out to Innovate educates all communities regarding scientific, technological, and medical concerns of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people.

Out to Innovate partners with and supports affiliated organizations advancing diversity in STEM, particularly organizations advancing LGBTQ+ diversity.

Application Process

Due date: rolling

Prepare and submit (in PDF or Microsoft Word format) your:

  • Resume or bio sketch (<2 pages)
  • Personal statement of interest and intent in the Out to Innovate board (1 page max)
  • Optional: up to three letters of support

Submit materials online using this Google form.

You will be required to log in with an authorized Google account in order to upload your application files. Complete all required sections of the form. You will be able to edit your submissions until September 30.

You may be contacted, via email or phone, for clarifying information or for a short interview.

Selection Process

In accordance with Out to Innovate’s ByLaws, the current Board establishes a selection procedure for the future Board. In each cycle, applicants will be considered and elected by a vote among the current Board.

Board Member Expectations

Every Out to Innovate Board member shall:

  • Uphold and represent the mission of Out to Innovate in an ethical manner
  • Remain an Out to Innovate member throughout their term
  • Serve a term of three years
  • Attend at least 8 monthly board meetings (per year), via video/tele-conference
  • Serve in an executive role, either on the Board (chair, secretary, or treasurer) or as chair of a Board committee. The current committees are:
    • Communication
    • Education, Research, and Advocacy
    • Fundraising
    • Membership
    • Programs
    • Partnerships and Affiliates
  • Provide service to the board and Out to Innovate through a combination of these three areas:
    • Attend at least one event as a representative of Out to Innovate (affiliate meeting, programming event, etc.)
    • Contribute and/or fundraise at least $500 towards any Out to Innovate fundraising campaign initiated by the Board
    • Volunteer to mentor at least one Out to Innovate member or partner student per year

Contact

If you have questions or concerns, please contact the chair or any existing board members.