How Boards Are Supposed to Work… and How They Actually Do

Nonprofit boards are often told how they are supposed to work, but the reality can look very different. When roles are unclear, power is misunderstood, or structure is missing, things can quickly become confusing or ineffective.

This session breaks down both the rules and the reality of board service. We will cover where authority actually lives and how it is delegated, the differences between board and staff roles, and how officers and committees function in practice. We will also explore how bylaws guide decision-making and what effective meetings look like, including a practical overview of Robert’s Rules of Order.

You will learn how fiduciary duties show up in real situations, how to navigate conflicts of interest, and how to recognize and address common board challenges like disengagement, overstepping, and decision-making outside of meetings.

Whether you are new to board service or looking to strengthen your current board, this session will help you move from confusion to clarity and from theory to practice.

What to Expect:
Clear understanding of how boards are supposed to function and how they often operate in reality
Practical guidance on board vs. staff roles and boundaries
Overview of bylaws, officers, and committee structures
Basics of effective meetings and decision-making
Real-world explanation of fiduciary duties and conflicts of interest
Insight into common board challenges and how to navigate them
Presenter: Michael Jonas, JD, MBA

Presenter Bio: Michael Jonas, JD, MBA, is a business and nonprofit attorney with nearly a decade of experience supporting startups, social enterprises, and community organizations. During the height of the pandemic, he worked tirelessly, often 60 to 70 hours a week, helping clients navigate legal and operational challenges with clarity and care. As the Owner and Attorney of Narwhal Law and Business Strategy, Michael focuses on helping mission-driven businesses and nonprofits build strong, sustainable foundations. Through Narwhal, he is known for “Guiding Community Through the Current,” making complex issues approachable, and helping organizations thrive through change.

Length: 1.5 Hours
Registration: Via Eventbrite, https://www.eventbrite.com/o/narwhal-law-and-business-strategy-86998676433