by Tatiana Dennis, Board Member
As chair of the Board Development Committee (BDC), I am proud of our commitment to diverse perspectives and inclusive participation. That commitment shows up in our approach to local food access, Board elections, and making space for the broader community to help shape your Co-op’s future.
The BDC brings together Co-op staff, Board members, and Owners to share input on the health and future of our Board and help guide its direction. This work includes preparing for the Annual Meeting, reviewing and sharing Board candidate materials, supporting election processes, and staying in conversation about what strong Board leadership should look like right now for our Co-op.
As Madison continues to change, this work feels especially important. Our city is growing and shifting, and honestly, it feels like it is always construction season these days. As that happens, our Co-op is thinking carefully about how its governance reflects the community around us. For BDC, this work is about building a Board that is informed, engaged, and connected to the values and needs of Co-op Owners across a changing Dane County.
This year is off to a strong start. We have already begun shaping our annual focus and priorities for the year ahead. I have appreciated stepping into this role and learning more about the many moving parts that support strong Board leadership behind the scenes.
Our full Board meetings are held once a month and help us stay proactive and responsive to Owner and community needs. They are always open to Owners, unless the Board is in executive session, and attending one can be a great way to learn more about how decisions are made, what the board is discussing, and how the Co-op stays accountable to its mission and its Owners.
The Board Development Committee is also one of the places where we help plant seeds for future leadership. In the coming months, we will begin sharing more information about running for the Board. If you have ever been curious about Board service or want to better understand how the Co-op is governed, I hope you will stay tuned, attend a meeting, and consider getting involved.
TO ATTEND A MEETING
See the Board meeting schedule at willystreet.coop/events for date, time, and location.
TO APPLY TO BE ON A COMMITTEE
Visit willystreet.coop/committees for a list of committees, what they do, and how to apply to join them.
TO LEARN ABOUT BECOMING A BOARD CANDIDATE
Watch for information later this spring!
