WILP Board Roles and Expectations

Mission

The mission of the Women in Leadership & Philanthropy (WILP) program at USF is to empower and unite women by providing opportunities for engagement, networking and leadership while creating a culture of  philanthropy and giving. We aim to cultivate a vibrant community of women leaders who are committed to making a meaningful impact within and beyond the USF community by fostering an environment of support, mentorship, and philanthropic engagement.

Vison

Our vision is to create a dynamic and influential network of women leaders who are catalysts for change, innovation, and progress within the USF community. We envision a world where women's leadership and philanthropic contributions are celebrated and integral to societal advancement. Through strategic partnerships, engaging programming, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth, WILP will elevate the potential of women to lead and give generously, making a significant impact on USF.

Overview

The Women in Leadership & Philanthropy (WILP) program at USF aims to utilize its platform as both a fundraising tool and a conduit for opportunities such as board positions and speaking engagements for women within the USF community. With a commitment to the four pillars of the Alumni Engagement Score—Experiential, Volunteerism, Philanthropy, and Communication—the WILP board will utilize their time, talent, treasure, and networks to elevate these metrics, enhancing the community of women at USF.

Overview

Members of the Women in Leadership & Philanthropy (WILP) Board are dedicated to fostering an environment that inspires, empowers, celebrates and advances women to become transformative leaders. The Board plays a critical role in building a strong, supportive community at the University of San Francisco (USF), empowering women to reach their fullest potential in service to a more just and humane world. As stewards of the WILP mission and vision, Board members are actively engaged in strategic decision-making, philanthropy, program development, and community engagement.

Each individual board member endeavors to promote and celebrate the vision, mission and strategy of Women in Leadership & Philanthropy by:

• Support the Mission and Vision of WILP: Board members are expected to remain actively involved throughout the year, responding promptly to calls to action. This includes attending and promoting events, expanding the network through outreach, and participating in mentorship roles.
• Event Participation: Board members are required to attend and support WILP events, such as symposiums, networking receptions, and other gatherings. These events should be leveraged for community building and fundraising efforts.
• Philanthropy and Fundraising: Engage actively in fundraising to ensure WILP’s financial health. Responsibilities include personal contributions at a specified minimum level, securing sponsorships or gifts for the WILP Fund, being an advocate within one’s personal network for giving to USF, and participating in fundraising events and campaigns.
• Community Engagement: Serve as an ambassador for WILP, enhancing the program’s visibility and membership by promoting its initiatives within personal and professional networks. Utilize the WILP network to meet the identified needs for USF board positions and volunteer opportunities.

• Term Commitment: Board members will have the opportunity to serve up to three consecutive two-year terms, with an assessment conducted at the conclusion of each term to determine renewal eligibility.
• Meeting Attendance: Make every effort to attend at least three board meetings annually, which may be held in-person or virtually.
• Financial Contribution: Make an annual gift to USF at the President’s Ambassadors Level of $1,000 or facilitate an equivalent in-kind donation or sponsorship. For graduates of the last ten years a $500 annual gift will be expected. 
• Fundraising: Actively promote and solicit contributions to the WILP Gift and Sponsorship Revenue Funds, aiming to raise $75,000 annually to support programs that propel women’s leadership initiatives.
• Event Coordination and Participation: Assist in organizing at least one WILP event or program each year and actively participate in the annual symposium and at least one other WILP event.
• Promotion: Utilize personal and professional networks to celebrate the impact of USF women in the community as well as leveraging networks to promote WILP and its events.
• Recruitment & Identification: Work with University leadership to identify and support the recruitment of new WILP members and donors as well as assessing opportunities and volunteer needs for other USF boards, committees and leadership positions. 
• Awards Process: Solicit nominations for, and participate in, the review and selection process of the annual WILP Alumni Award, which is presented at the Alumni Awards Ceremony in September.
   

If you or someone you know is interested in joining the WILP Board, please nominate someone or self-nominate using this form.