Role Summary
Board members of the Fort Collins Report serve as guardians of our mission and vision. They provide fiduciary oversight, strategic direction, fundraising support, and public trust. Unlike a passive or symbolic board, ours shall be a working board composed of community leaders, professionals, and advocates who actively shape the trajectory of our publication during its formative years.
This is a leadership opportunity for individuals who believe in the power of local journalism and want to contribute their time, expertise, and network to help build something impactful, sustainable, and truly independent.
Mission Stewardship & Strategic Leadership
- Maintain a deep understanding of and commitment to the Fort Collins Report’s mission, values, and audience.
- Participate in setting organizational priorities, vision, and growth strategy, particularly in a startup phase.
- Offer independent judgment and constructive input on high-level decisions, balancing journalistic independence with financial and legal realities.
- Serve as a sounding board for the Publisher, offering insights from your field of expertise and acting as a strategic advisor.
Editorial Independence & Oversight (Non-Interventionist)
- Uphold the newsroom’s editorial independence from financial, political, or ideological influence — including your own.
- Support the development of formal editorial policies and codes of ethics that ensure transparency and integrity.
- Be available to evaluate reputational or legal risks when needed, particularly around issues of public trust, defamation, or controversial content.
- Avoid micromanaging the editorial process, while protecting the conditions for journalistic freedom and rigor.
Fiduciary Responsibility & Legal Oversight
- Ensure the organization complies with nonprofit laws, 501(c)(3) regulations, and ethical governance practices.
- Approve annual budgets, oversee financial reports, and ensure responsible stewardship of donor funds and grants.
- Contribute to the organization’s risk management strategy, including insurance, data protection, and conflict-of-interest disclosures.
- Serve on finance, audit, or governance committees as needed.
Board Engagement & Committee Participation
- Prepare for and attend quarterly board meetings (or as frequently as determined), either in person or virtually.
- Join at least one board committee or task force (e.g., Fundraising, Governance, Strategy, Audit).
- Participate in special initiatives, retreats, or public events on occasion (e.g., panel discussions, campaign launches, listening sessions).
- Help recruit, orient, and mentor new board members, expanding the board’s diversity and capacity over time.
Desired Qualifications & Characteristics
Professional Background (any of the following):
- Journalism, communications, or media ethics
- Nonprofit leadership or board service
- Fundraising, grant writing, or donor relations
- Higher education, particularly in journalism, political science, or public policy
- Finance, accounting, or law (especially nonprofit or media law)
- Marketing, branding, or audience development
- Public affairs, local government, or civic advocacy
- Technology, innovation, or product strategy in a digital context
Personal Attributes:
- Deep commitment to community service and free press
- Thoughtful, collaborative, and respectful of diverse viewpoints
- Willingness to engage in hands-on, practical work during the organization’s startup phase
- Commitment to learning and upholding nonprofit best practices and board ethics
- Comfort with ambiguity and a strong problem-solving mindset
- Desire to leave a long-term civic legacy in Fort Collins
Time Commitment
- Board Meetings: 4 per year (virtual or in person)
- Committee Work or Special Projects: 3-6 hours per month (depending on involvement and if you’d like to contribute content)
- Community Engagement / Fundraising Support: Occasional (based on events and needs)
To Apply or Nominate Someone