Leadership Begins with Service

2026 NARCDC Board of Directors Elections

Building a Stronger Future Through Board Elections

As part of the National Association of RC&D Councils' ongoing commitment to strengthening our organization and following nonprofit governance best practices, we have adopted several important governance updates, including Board term limits and a member-driven election process. These changes reflect our dedication to transparency, accountability, and ensuring that every member council has a voice in the future of our Association.

To establish a staggered system of Board service, elections will be held in 2026, 2027, and 2028. This transition will create a balanced, rolling election cycle that provides both leadership continuity and regular opportunities for new voices and perspectives to serve. Beginning with this transition, all Board positions—including At-Large and Regional Representative seats—will be filled through elections by the membership, creating a fair and representative governance structure for the entire RC&D network.

These improvements would not be possible without the vision and leadership of our current Board of Directors. Many of our current Board members were originally appointed to serve during a period of organizational rebuilding and have dedicated countless hours to strengthening the Association. Their willingness to modernize our governance structure, establish term limits, and transition to a fully elected Board demonstrates their commitment to serving the membership and ensuring the long-term success of the National RC&D network. Their leadership has laid the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive, and sustainable Association for years to come.

We encourage every member council to participate in this important process by submitting nominations, learning about the candidates, and casting your vote. Together, we are building a stronger Association through engaged leadership, broad representation, and a shared commitment to the future of RC&D.

Serving Today

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Leading Tomorrow

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Representing Every RC&D Council

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Serving Today · Leading Tomorrow · Representing Every RC&D Council ·

At-Large

3 At-Large Positions for 2026

At-Large Directors serve on the NARCDC Board of Directors representing the interests of the Association and the national RC&D network as a whole, rather than a specific geographic region. They provide strategic leadership, help establish organizational priorities, ensure sound governance and financial stewardship, and advocate for the mission of RC&D across the country. At-Large Directors work collaboratively with fellow Board members to advance the Association's vision, strengthen partnerships, and support member councils nationwide.

Nominate At-Large Member

Regional

North Central Region Election 2026

Regional Representative Directors serve on the NARCDC Board of Directors by representing the interests, needs, and perspectives of RC&D councils within their assigned region. They act as a liaison between member councils and the Board, encourage communication and engagement, and ensure regional priorities are considered in national decision-making. Regional Representatives work collaboratively with the full Board to provide strategic leadership, strengthen the RC&D network, and advance the mission of the Association while supporting the success of councils throughout their region.

Southeast and Northeast Regional Associations held elections to select their Regional Representatives.

Nominate North Central Regional Member

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The National Association of RC&D Councils is committed to strengthening our organization through sound nonprofit governance practices. Over the past year, the Board has updated our bylaws and governance policies to increase transparency, accountability, and member participation. Board elections are an important part of that commitment and ensure that our leadership reflects the voices of our member councils.

  • To establish a balanced, staggered system of Board service, elections will be conducted over a three-year transition period. Once this transition is complete, NARCDC will have rolling elections, providing continuity in leadership while allowing for regular opportunities for new leaders to serve.

  • Several governance improvements have been adopted, including:

    • Board term limits

    • A standardized election process

    • Updated governance policies

    • Greater member participation in Board selection

    • A staggered Board structure to ensure continuity and stability

    These updates align NARCDC with nonprofit governance best practices and position the Association for long-term success.

  • Any individual who meets the eligibility requirements outlined in the Election Policy and is nominated by an NARCDC member council in good standing may apply for election.

  • Each NARCDC member council in good standing may nominate eligible candidates for open Board positions according to the Election Policy.

  • A member council in good standing is one whose membership dues have been paid by the required deadline and that meets the membership requirements established by NARCDC.

  • At-Large Directors

    • Represent the interests of the entire national RC&D network.

    • May come from any region of the country.

    • Are elected by the full NARCDC membership.

    Regional Representatives

    • Represent the interests and perspectives of a specific geographic region.

    • Are elected by the member councils within that region.

    Together, these positions help ensure both national leadership and regional representation.

  • During a period of organizational transition and rebuilding, appointments were necessary to ensure stable leadership and continuity of operations. Those leaders helped guide the Association through significant challenges while working to develop a modern governance structure.

    One of their most important accomplishments has been creating the very election process now being implemented—demonstrating their commitment to fair representation, member engagement, and the long-term success of NARCDC.

  • Term limits encourage leadership development, create opportunities for new perspectives, and maintain a healthy balance between organizational experience and fresh ideas. They are widely recognized as a nonprofit governance best practice.

  • NARCDC conducts elections according to its adopted Election Policy using a secure voting process. Candidate eligibility is verified prior to the election, and election results are certified before newly elected Directors begin their terms.

  • Candidate biographies, qualifications, and statements will be published in the official Voter Guide prior to voting so member councils can make informed decisions.

  • Nomination forms and the Board Candidate Application are available below on this page.

  • Strong member participation leads to stronger leadership. Voting and encouraging qualified candidates to serve helps ensure that NARCDC remains responsive, representative, and focused on the needs of RC&D councils across the country.

  • If you have questions about the election process, eligibility, or nominations, please contact the NARCDC office. We are happy to assist you throughout the election process.

Ready to Serve?

Board Application