You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Board of Directors

The operations of Florida Humanities are overseen by a Board of Directors. Our board is drawn from all areas of the state and have backgrounds in academic, public, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. Each member serves a renewable three-year term, and six are appointed by the Governor of Florida.

Braulio Colón

Secretary

Tampa

Susan Towler

Chair

Jacksonville

Timothy Schmand

Vice Chair

Miami

Scott Barrow

Pensacola

Jack E. Davis

Gainesville

Dan Denton

Sarasota

Olympia Duhart

Fort Lauderdale

Diane Egner

Tampa

Jim Gilmore

Treasurer

Jacksonville

Maria Goldberg

Past Chair

Pensacola

Sue Kim (G)

Ormond Beach

Patrick Morris

Miami

Randy Noles

Orlando

D'Anna Osceola

Tallahassee

Myriam Springuel

Sarasota

Glenda Walters (G)

Lynn Haven

Frank Wells

Orlando

Catherine Wilkins

St. Petersburg

Call for Nominations

The Board of Directors, which meets three times per year, sets policy, evaluates grant proposals, participates in fundraising activities, and promotes Florida Humanities programs.

Florida Humanities accepts nominations for the Board of Directors year-round. These individuals are champions of the humanities and are committed to preserving and celebrating Florida culture. Applicants interested in serving on the Board are encouraged to review the Board of Directors responsibilities listed below. Questions or comments should be directed to Patricia Putman, Associate Director.

Board Member Responsibilities

1

Prepare for, Attend and Participate in Board Meetings

Board members are expected to attend all meetings. Three in-person Board meetings are scheduled for February, May, and September of each year. These meetings occur in different locations around the state. Board of Directors meetings usually include a Committee meeting, and evenings prior to the start of the full meeting typically include a humanities program and group dinner.

The meeting agenda and other important documents are made available in advance. Board members should review this information prior to attending.

2

Actively Participate in Committee Work

All Members serve on at least one committee. Committees usually meet in person at each Board meeting and by conference calls throughout the year. Committee work provides opportunities for Board members to directly leverage their expertise in support of Florida Humanities and its mission.

Current Board of Directors committees:

  • Communications
  • Finance and Development
  • Programs
  • Executive Committee (comprised of committee chairs, the Board Chair, Vice Chair, Immediate Past Chair, and Secretary)
3

Attend Florida Humanities Local and Regional Events

Members attend Florida Humanities events to evaluate programs and promote the organization’s work. This provides practical examples of the work we accomplish and assists Staff in reaching areas of the state that may be a geographic challenge.

4

Serve as Organizational Ambassadors

Members promote the humanities by communicating and participating with civic, community, religious and business groups and the public. These connections are vital to amplifying the work we do and creating new partnership opportunities. Members also encourage their colleagues to join the organization as donors or future Board members.

5

Support the Organization Financially

Board members financially contribute to Florida Humanities at a level commensurate with their stature as a Board Member and to their individual ability. There is an annual goal for all Board members to provide a financial contribution. Members may also assist with other fund-raising and development tasks as outlined by the Finance and Development Committee.

6

Assist With Legislative Matters

Florida Humanities receives its principal operating funds from the Florida Legislature and U.S. Congress. Board Members assist with communicating with their representatives in addition to others who are vital to securing the organization’s funding.

7

Recruit New Board Members

Board members are asked to thoughtfully nominate individuals who can meet and exceed the above requirements. Board nominees should meet current needs for Board composition and consider the need for a Board with a wide variety of skill sets, abilities, backgrounds, professions, and geographic reach.