Follen’s governance transition task force made good progress over the winter on a proposed new governance structure. The task force included 30+ volunteers who developed input in 9 different areas (Ministry Team Structure, Board Structure, Bylaws, Personnel/HR, Safety/Legal, Finance, Facilities, Lay Leader Training, and Transparency). Through multiple workshops, meetings with action teams, and smaller working … Continue reading Governance Transition Update, March 2026

The process of reviewing Follen’s governance structure has been in full swing all fall, with 29 volunteers reviewing 9 different areas of Follen. These groups are developing a proposal for a modified governance structure that would have 1 governing body rather than 2, with the twin goals of supporting the vibrant volunteerism that makes Follen … Continue reading Governance Transition Update, December 2025

The Governance Transition Management Team (TMT), consisting of Melissa Howe, Gordon Hardy, and Jen Vandiver, has made good progress over the summer setting up multiple sub-teams, including 28 volunteers, to do the detailed work of proposing transition plans in different areas of church governance. We have the following teams up and running:   TMT Liaison … Continue reading Governance Transition Update, September 2025

Last June, Parish Board created the Governance Advisory Task Force to explore the possibility of revising our bylaws and adjusting our governance structures. Since then we have consulted, researched, and reflected deeply on the relative merits of sticking with the status quo versus embarking on change. Task force members include Jen V., Teresa C., Jack … Continue reading Governance Advisory Task Force Project Update, March 2025

To date, the Governance Advisory Task Force (GATF) has conducted 28 1:1 interviews with previous and current lay leaders. GATF held a well-attended luncheon and discussed themes identified from interviews. Next, GATF plans to talk to action teams and staff over October/November and will also be arranging opportunities for more individuals and groups to have … Continue reading Governance Advisory Task Force Project Update, October 2024