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"A good trustee immerses him or herself in the life of the university and draws on their conversations and experiences during our meetings. There has to be an understanding that we all come from different backgrounds and hold sometimes very different personal opinions — the common factor has to be our students. In order to best serve their interests, and the interests of future generations, we all have to work together to shape the best possible residential liberal arts university experience." - Board Chair Chris Clifford '67 (Colgate Scene interview )
Over the course of any given three-year period, about one-third of Colgate's 35-member Board of Trustees turns over. This keeps the board fresh, and ensures a diversity of perspectives and opinions. It also means that the nominating committee is always looking for new candidates.
Colgate's Board Nominating Committee accepts nominations from current and former trustees, alumni, and others as they seek to find candidates who bring both experience in an important area of need — be it finance, construction, education, legal affairs, or public service — and a deep commitment to Colgate. This is important because of the board's responsibilities, which include establishing the university's annual budget, reviewing Colgate's basic educational programs and policies, overseeing the endowment, authorizing construction and major building renovations, and promoting and supporting major fundraising efforts.
Beyond oversight of the university's operations, the board also must stay current on issues that impact higher education and the learning environment. They do this primarily through committees on student affairs and academic and faculty affairs that engage trustees in the discussions of the day, from the importance of interdisciplinary research in undergraduate education to how best to blend the academic and residential programs. They frequently invite students, faculty, administrators, and outside speakers to their meetings to help them work through key issues. Members of the board also spend time on campus, talking with students in the library or Frank Dining Hall, and attending classes and events to get a sense of what is happening on campus. All of this helps them get a true sense of the Colgate experience.