Board Pathways survey tool: Not sure what board service is right for you? Use our Board Pathways survey tool to help you discern your next step. (Please note, EA will continue to flesh out this tool with additional resources through the summer and fall. Click here to take the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KJTNXPP
Board Pathways
Member Menu
Everyone’s path to board leadership is different. Executive Alliance is committed to advancing women’s leadership in the boardroom and beyond.
QuickStart Board Readiness Program: NEW for 2025-26 membership year from the Women on Boards committee, and open ONLY TO MEMBERS, Executive Alliance’s QuickStart Board Readiness Program is a focused, high-impact, six-month experience designed specifically for senior-level executive women who are ready to launch a serious campaign for their first compensated corporate board seat within the next two years. Combining expert-led virtual instruction with personalized mentoring from experienced board leaders, the program equips participants with practical tools, strategic insight, and high-level network needed to break into the boardroom. Learn more about this program and apply.
Additional Resources: Executive Alliance has compiled additional resources and tools regarding board readiness. Please click here for more.
State Boards and Commissions
Resources
State Boards and Commissions List
State Boards and Commissions Application Checklist
FAQ
What are state boards & commissions and why are they important? (What kinds of power do they have?)
- Gov can make >1k appts .
- Green bag is a subset off appointments that require senate confirmation.
- Only 20 have to be confirmed by the Senate. All the rest are regular routine board and commissions.
Who appoints these roles and is there a timeline?
- The appointments secretary is one of the highest-level priorities for a Governor to select as he has to fill a cabinet to fill and high-level appts very quickly.
- The Governor Elect has selected Tisha Edwards as his Appointments Secretary [Provide Background]
- Green bag deadline is in February. Is it worth putting in an application now for appointment?
- Speaker & Senate President appointments
How do I know which boards & commissions I would be qualified for?
- Think through your professional and personal expertise and match up your experience with the board description.
- Look through the State Boards & Commissions list – there are over 500! (https://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/26excom/html/00list.html)
- How could my professional experience DISQUALIFY me for serving on a board? (conflict of interest)
General Advice
- DO YOUR RESEARCH
- OUTREACH
- Send a letter to the appointments sec/speaker/president expressing interest
Positioning Yourself
State Boards & Commissions are powerful organizations in Maryland. Government affairs experts Ellen Valentino and Delora Sanchez Ifekauche share their inside tips on how to best position yourself for this type of service and answer your questions.
2025/2026 Board QuickStart Class
QuickStart Program
2025-2026 QuickStart Cohort Contact Information
2025-2026 Honorary Trustees List
QuickStart Board Bio (This will be used throughout the session and you will need to create a user name and password or link it through your email)
Below see all session details and materials
Session 1: Launch & Connect - Foundation of your Board Campaign
Kick off your board journey with a strategic framework and the support of a powerful network. Learn what today’s boards seek and begin crafting your personal board value proposition with expert Suzanne Miglucci. Then, put insights into action with a high-impact networking session featuring Executive Alliance’s Honorary Trustees—seasoned board members ready to share real-world advice and connections to help you launch your campaign with confidence.
UVP & Positioning Statement Worksheet
Session 2: Crafting Your Board Narrative – Bios, Resumes & Peer Feedback
Your board bio and resume are powerful positioning tools. In this interactive virtual session, you’ll learn how to craft materials that highlight governance, leadership, and strategic value. With expert guidance and structured peer feedback, you'll refine your narrative to resonate with board audiences. Leave with stronger, board-ready documents and greater clarity and confidence in your value proposition.
Session 3: Staying Sharp and Going to Market
Stay ahead of governance trends and elevate your board visibility. This session covers how to track boardroom issues like ESG and AI, optimize your LinkedIn for board discovery, and build a go-to-market strategy aligned with your target roles. Learn how to position yourself as a thought leader and make your board campaign actionable.
LinkedIn Algorithm Cheat Sheet
Session 4: Expanding Your Reach – Strategic Networking & Credentials
Effective board candidates are known for the right things by the right people. Learn how to network with intention, cultivate champions, and expand your visibility through high-value directories and certifications like Equilar and DDI. You'll leave with actionable steps to amplify your credibility and market presence.
Session Summary/Key Takeaways/Action Items
Session 5: Ready for the Seat – Interviewing & Campaign Framework
Bring your board strategy to life. This interactive virtual session prepares you for real board interviews, including how to communicate your value, navigate “chemistry checks,” and present yourself with confidence. You’ll also finalize your full campaign toolkit and set next steps.
Session Summary/Key Takeaways/Action Items
Session 6: Campaign Complete – Celebration & Showcase
Celebrate your transformation and share your completed Board Campaign Framework in this final virtual session. Reflect on lessons learned, showcase your progress, and solidify the deep connections you’ve built. This is both a capstone moment and a launching point for what’s next.