Board Nominations 2026

Nominations Process

The Board of Directors seeks nominations from those interested in supporting the SAA and its commitment to the Suzuki philosophy. Board members will support the SAA in reaching the goals listed in its Strategic Plan. If you are interested in becoming a Board member, please read below in full to understand the organization’s needs and goals for the near future.

Our Mission:

To foster strong communities across the Americas through the advancement of Suzuki music education, driven by innovation, connection, and personal excellence

Our Vision:

A better world, one learner at a time

Our Values

Nurturing Environment, Pursuit of Mastery, Inclusive Belonging, Service & Stewardship, Connection through Music

Our Strategic Plan:

Our key areas of focus include: teacher development, member outreach, engagement events, community building, brand awareness, and governance.

Board Members We Seek

We seek Board Members able to support us in reaching the goals listed in our Strategic Plan outlined above. In order to do so, we ask that applicants offer:

• Deep commitment, passion, and belief in the Suzuki philosophy, Dr. Suzuki’s legacy, and to the mission, vision, and values of the Association
• Commitment to governance and not operational management
• Experience leading and guiding organizations in expanding brand awareness and building strategic partnerships
• A commitment to supporting the organization’s efforts to expanding its philanthropy, corporate sponsorships, and foundation connections
• A commitment to giving financially to the SAA
• Readiness to meet the board commitments listed below

Board Commitments:

• Meetings & Volunteer Service: The Board meets a minimum of four times per year for 2.5 hours virtually. There is an annual Board Retreat in-person for approximately two days at annual SAA events. We anticipate the time commitment as a minimum 2-4 hours each month.
• Committee Appointments: Board Members serve on at least one committee meeting which meets monthly
• Giving: 100% of Board Members make a meaningful financial contribution to the SAA annually. In addition, Board members participate in asking for donations and recruiting and retaining new members of the SAA.

What You’ll Need To Fill Out a Nomination Form

You can view the Nomination form at this link. The form requires basic contact information (name, email, phone,) a brief biography, and a few relevant questions about the nominee. A resume or CV is also required. Please reference all Bylaws and Board Policies prior to completing the form.

Timeline for 2026 Nominations

• For those interested in Board service for the 2026 – 2029 term, the preferred deadline is April 18, 2026. The firm deadline is April 30, 2026. Applications are open and accepted, year-round
• All nominees will be interviewed in May 2026
• Member voting will take place between May and June, 2026
• Announcements will take place on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at the Annual General Meeting
• New Directors can anticipate training and orientation in August 2026. The first meeting of our fiscal year will occur in September 2026.