We look for someone who is interested in and cares about Colgate, and someone who is willing to give in a variety of ways. First and foremost of those ways is time. There is an obligation to attend, if not all the meetings, at least most of the meetings. We meet twice a year in New York and twice in Hamilton, and hold a retreat every other year. Coming with board membership is the expectation of service in any number of ways.
All board members are members of two or three committees.
So first it's a willingness to commit time. Then there are specific tasks, such as providing leadership in a capital campaign. That kind of support comes not only from giving personal financial support, but also from a willingness to go out and help sell the need for the Campaign to other alumni. A board meeting is typically a two-day affair when committee meetings are included. And that doesn't include the time spent reading the material that's sent to us to keep us current.