The New School's Board of Trustees and its members serve as supporters of the university and its aims, advisors to the president and university leaders, and advocates for the university in the world. The Board of Trustees governs the university with the aim of advancing the university's mission and promoting the overall and long-term well-being of the university. The Board of Trustees has a fiduciary duty to the university, established by law and principles of good governance, and is responsible for prioritizing the best interests of the university. The authority of the Board of Trustees is outlined by the University By-laws, and it acts on recommendations that may arise to and from board committees and through university officers. The Board of Trustees and each individual trustee are committed to exemplifying high standards for integrity, excellence, and service in support of The New School's mission.
Trustees
Trustees are leaders from various sectors, such as business, law, real estate, retail, media, and philanthropy. Trustees volunteer their time, knowledge, and experience to The New School and are strictly excluded from receiving any compensation for their service as trustees. The Board of Trustees includes two faculty trustees, two student trustees, and two alumni trustees, who are brought forward through nomination and selection processes that include the faculty and student senates, their peers, and/or members of the university and alumni communities. The Board of Trustees is led by a chair and includes vice chairs. The president of the university also serves as an ex officio member of the Board of Trustees.
The special status of life trustee is conferred on trustees who have concluded their active service but whose relationship and contributions to The New School the board wishes to honor. Life trustees receive communications from The New School and may attend meetings of the Board of Trustees meetings, but they do not participate in voting.
Meetings and Engagement
The Board of Trustees and its committees meet regularly throughout the academic year. In addition to attending meetings, trustees are encouraged to actively participate in the life of the university through attendance at university public programs, special events, ceremonies, tours, and other convenings on campus, as well as university events in various U.S. cities and abroad.
Board Committees
Much of the work of the Board of Trustees is conducted through its standing committees. On occasion, the Board of Trustees may establish working groups or committees to address timely matters. The board has eight standing committees. Read about them below.