Volunteer Chair Description

Volunteer Chair Position

The following outlines what is expected of a volunteer chair.

It is preferred that individuals selected for this position shall:

Have proficient written and oral communication skills.
Demonstrate a commitment to the mission and goals of ALA.
Demonstrate a commitment to professional development and advancing the education mission of ALA; possess an understanding of the issues relevant to the education of legal management professionals.
Demonstrate the ability to be a cooperative and participatory team member.
Have the ability to develop and maintain positive relations with ALA Members, be they individuals, in chapters, on regional teams, or the ALA Board of Directors, as well as ALA Staff and Business Partners.

Individuals who commit to serve at this level of ALA are held to high standards of public decorum, dependability and service to the members.
Chairs and Vice Chairs are required to participate in group meetings, as well as events and functions that occur during their term on their leadership group. Firm support is important to be successful in this role.
Chairs and Vice Chairs shall exhibit and develop the attributes deemed important to leadership in ALA. Those attributes are courage, vision, communication, passion, reliability, inclusiveness, balance, respect, collaboration and integrity.
It is required that each Chair and Vice Chair support and abide by the Bylaws, Code of Ethics, Strategic Plan and Plan of Work of ALA.

Work with the staff liaison and respective leadership group members to develop a Plan of Work each year that will allow the group to effectively discharge its responsibilities for the year.
Consistent with ALA’s policy and strategic plan, the Chair works with the staff and board liaisons to guide the group in its work as outlined by the Plan of Work.
Work with the staff liaison to develop agendas and conduct group meetings.
Work with the staff liaison to ensure that the work of the group is carried out between meetings.
In conjunction with the staff liaison, develop reports on group activities, including requests to the Board of Directors for action.
Report to their group on decisions of the Board or Executive Committee that affect the group's work or activities.
Where appropriate, guide the group in proposing products and projects that will further the goals and objectives of the Association.
Where appropriate, make policy recommendations to the Board.

Questions? We’re Here to Help
We are happy to answer any questions that arise throughout your volunteer journey. Email us at [email protected].