Serving on a local board like Slope Electric is one of the most effective ways to make a lasting impact in your community.  Your Slope Electric directors and I play a crucial role in shaping decisions that affect Slope’s members’ lives every day. Beyond attending meetings and voting on motions, board service is about leadership, collaboration, and stewardship of Slope’s resources.

At its core, serving as a board director means using your skills, experience, and perspective to help Slope Electric achieve its mission. Slope Electric’s mission is: To make electric energy available to its members at the lowest cost consistent with sound economy and good management. 

As directors we provide oversight, ensure accountability, and help set the strategic direction that guides the Slope’s future. We also serve as ambassadors—connecting Slope Electric to our service area and advocating for its goals.

Local leadership and transparency are the foundation of our success. That’s why serving as a director is such an important role—and why I encourage anyone interested to consider running for a seat on our board. Directors play a direct part in shaping our cooperative’s future and ensuring we continue to meet the needs of our members. As directors, we must always remember our role includes the following:

• Understand the Mission and Goals. Before making decisions, take time to fully understand the Slope’s purpose, history, and long-term objectives. Every action the board takes should align with the mission. When directors are grounded in the “why,” they can make better choices about the “how.”
   
• Actively Participant in monthly board meetings. Regular attendance and participation in meetings are essential. Come prepared—review materials in advance, ask questions, and engage in discussions. An effective board member listens thoughtfully, contributes ideas, and supports collective decisions once they’re made.
   
• Represent Slope Electric in affiliated organizations. Two directors regularly attend several meetings annually of other organizations owned by Slope Electric, ensuring our members’ interests are represented. Directors also attend additional meetings and events: Some meetings occur out of state and may last several days.
   
• Uphold Fiduciary and Ethical Responsibilities. Board directors are entrusted with overseeing Slope’s financial health and ensuring that resources are used responsibly. This includes understanding budgets, monitoring performance, and maintaining transparency. Acting with integrity and avoiding conflicts of interest are central to earning our member’s trust.
   
• Support the Executive Leadership. Strong boards work in partnership with Slope’s co-managers and staff. The board provides oversight and guidance, not day-to-day management. Respecting this boundary allows staff to lead effectively while ensuring accountability and support from the board.
   
• Advocate and Build Connection. Board members serve as ambassadors in the community. We share the Slope’s story, help build partnerships, and connect potential donors, volunteers, and collaborators. Your personal and professional networks can be powerful tools for advancing the Slope’s mission.
   
• Commit to Continuous Learning. The best directors never stop learning. Attend training sessions, stay informed about trends in governance and community issues, and be open to feedback. Growth and adaptability strengthen both the board and Slope Electric. The education gained here can also provide knowledge and skills for serving with other organizations in our community. 

Directors typically dedicate approximately three days per month to their responsibilities. Slope Electric appreciates this commitment by reimbursing travel expenses and offering modest compensation for the time spent representing Slope Electric.

Before joining any board, it’s important to understand what the role entails and how you can contribute effectively. This includes learning about the Slope’s mission and governance structure, understanding your legal and ethical responsibilities, and committing the time and energy needed to fulfill your duties. With preparation and passion, serving as a board director can be one of the most rewarding ways to give back and strengthen your community.

If you are interested, please attend one of our membership appreciation events and visit with your Slope directors, or call the staff at our cooperative to learn more. 

Please know that you––the members of Slope Electric––are at the heart of everything we do. This co-op was created for you, the members. I consider it an honor and a privilege to serve as one of your Slope directors and I hope you will consider serving should you feel the calling.