From Routine to Renewal: Why Our Boards Must Evolve Now
Governance is the linchpin of association vitality. Yet too often, boards operate on outdated assumptions, constrained by habits that no longer serve today’s complex and brittle environment. The Future of Association Boards Report has made it clear: the governance models of yesterday cannot address the nonlinear challenges of today.
This series will explore how associations can dramatically improve governance and director education. It will weave together the research and recommendations of the FAB Report (De Cagna, 2025), my work on Adaptive Leadership, and the seven Strategic Capacities for Association Success.
This is not simply about tightening procedures; it is about cultivating foresight, equipping directors with the courage and competence to ensure governance becomes a strategic asset rather than a compliance exercise.
I wish more Directors were open to professional development. They make the job of their executive more difficult by refusing to accept that they, too, must evolve in today’s environment.
Call to Action: As you read this series, I invite you to reflect not only on the structures you serve within but also on the habits of thought and leadership you bring to the boardroom. Change begins with you.
Credits: Much of the series is adapted from:
- Future of Association Boards Report: Jeff De Cagna, Foresight First LLC, 2025.
- Adaptive Leadership: Ronald Heifetz, Alexander Grashow, Marty Linsky, The Practice of Adaptive Leadership, Harvard Business Press, 2009.
- Strategic Capacity: Michael Butera, forthcoming Seven Strategic Capacities for Association Success.