Donors, Boards and the Power Dynamic

This session will explore the power dynamics funders navigate on a regular basis. Whether the power is real or perceived, it may come from various sources – a donor, a legacy volunteer or a major funder. We will discuss power dynamics, acknowledge realities such as harassment*, explore the dependency quotient and review current research on the topic.

*This session will discuss sexual harassment, which can be triggering for some individuals.

Back by popular demand! This session is a reprises of content first offered at Philanthropy Forward ’24 due to attendee interest and request. 

What you’ll take away

• Best practices for ensuring respectful and professional experiences for your staff; and
• Insight on how to mitigate the impacts of power dynamics inherent in philanthropic work. 

Who should attend

• CEOs and Senior Leaders managing board governance relationships;
• Staff with donor services and development responsibilities; and
• Foundation board members and trustees interested in cultivating healthy policies with staff, board and donor engagements.