Theme: Board Recruitment

Core Narrative

CivicOS Institute is building a world-class board that combines academic rigor, government experience, and civic tech expertise. We’re taking an advisory-first approach to lower barriers while maintaining grant credibility.

Key Messages

Government veterans bring instant credibility
Academic partners provide research depth
Advisory roles reduce commitment anxiety
Path to fiduciary board for committed members

Story Arc

Chapter 1: Outreach (Feb 2026)

Initial 6 candidates contacted
Mix of academic (FAU) and government (Palm Beach County)
Personalized outreach based on expertise

Chapter 2: Response & Evaluation (Mar 2026)

Follow-ups with non-responders
Initial conversations with interested candidates
Assessment of fit and commitment level

Chapter 3: Formation (Apr-May 2026)

First advisory board meeting
Transition discussions for fiduciary roles
Governance training for new members

Chapter 4: Expansion (Jun-Dec 2026)

Adding independent directors
Achieving majority-independent board
Board committees formed

Quotes to Reference

“Our advisory board includes Verdenia Baker, former Palm Beach County Administrator with 40 years managing a $9B budget.”

“We’re building a board that understands both the promise and peril of AI in government.”

Governance structure
Nonprofit best practices
501(c)(3) requirements
Fiduciary responsibility

Future Letter Angles

“What I Learned From Interviewing 10 Board Candidates”
“Why We Chose Advisory-First Over Traditional Board Formation”
“The Government Veteran Advantage: Why Verdenia Baker Said Yes”
“Board Spotlight: Dr. Cliff McCue on Procurement Research”