Board of Directors Online Application

Join Us in Making a Difference: TESS Research Foundation is Seeking Dedicated Board Members!

Are you a passionate advocate for change? Do you have a heart for making a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by SLC13A5 Epilepsy?

TESS is on the lookout for exceptional individuals to join our dynamic Board of Directors, steering the course toward a brighter future for the SLC13A5 community. We’re seeking leaders who understand the importance of collaboration, innovation, and fundraising in driving our mission forward. Know someone who might be interested? Forward them a link to this page!

About TESS Research Foundation

TESS Research Foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity and the only organization fully dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by SLC13A5 Epilepsy. To achieve our goals, TESS funds cutting-edge research, provides support to people affected by SLC13A5 Epilepsy, and increases awareness about this severe neurological disorder.

We do this across countries because SLC13A5 Epilepsy does not know geographic boundaries. We do this collaboratively because it takes a team of scientists to improve treatments and find a cure. We do this with urgency because our loved ones are sick now. We are in a hurry to catch the disease up to advances in science.

Leadership Needed

TESS Research Foundation’s virtual Board of Directors is composed of all-volunteer members of varying skillsets. The Board provides important oversight to the organization, strategic guidance on TESS agendas, connections to the community, and helps TESS stay focused on our mission. Serving on the TESS Board will allow you to make a meaningful impact on the SLC13A5 Epilepsy community. International applicants welcome. Terms are three years with the option to renew.

We are looking for dedicated individuals who are passionate about catalyzing change and enhancing the lives of those impacted by SLC13A5 Epilepsy, bringing professional expertise from fields like advocacy, nonprofit management, healthcare, research, law, or finance, and demonstrating a collaborative approach, fundraising prowess, strategic foresight, and financial acumen.

Your leadership will drive our efforts to raise awareness, facilitate research, and provide vital support to those in need.

Board Member Responsibilities and Qualifications

Responsibilities

 

  • Strategic Planning: Collaborate with fellow Board members to develop and refine our organization’s strategic goals, ensuring our effort remain aligned with our mission.
  • Fundraising: Actively participate in fundraising activities, leveraging your network and creativity to secure resources that will enable us to expand our reach and impact.
  • Advocacy: Serve as a vocal advocate for SLC13A5 Epilepsy, promoting understanding and empathy with your community and beyond.
  • Governance: Provide oversight and guidance to ensure the organization’s financial sustainability, transparency, and adherence to best practices.
  • Meeting Engagement: Prepare for and actively engage in required Board meetings, sharing your perspectives, insights, and feedback to drive informed decision-making.

Qualifications

 

  • Passion: A deep commitment to improving the lives of individuals affected by SLC13A5 Epilepsy and a genuine desire to drive change.
  • Expertise: Professional experience in fields such as healthcare, research, advocacy, law, finance, or nonprofit management.
  • Collaborative Spirit: A proven track record of effective collaboration in diverse teams, bringing different perspectives together for impactful decision-making.
  • Fundraising Acumen: Demonstrated ability to raise funds through strategic partnerships, donor cultivation, or other innovative approaches.
  • Strategic Vision: The ability to think strategically, identifying emerging opportunities and anticipating potential challenges.
  • Tech Proficiency: Comfortable with basic computer skills like word processing, email communication, Zoom calls, etc., for effective virtual collaboration.
  • Financial Literacy: Capable of reading and understanding the organization’s summary financial statements.

Estimated Time Requirements

Active Board Participation: In addition to understanding SLC13A5 Epilepsy and our mission and taking proactive roles in advocating and fundraising for TESS, Board members are required to participate in hour-long Board meetings scheduled every other month. Board members are expected to be prepared for Board meetings, including reviewing agenda and documents prior to meetings, when applicable. Estimated time to prepare for a Board meeting will vary but is typically 30 minutes to 1 hour prior to the meeting.

Leadership Responsibilities: An additional 1-2 hours monthly. This includes advisory Board membership and volunteer activities. There is an expectation to contribute a minimum of 5 hours in October and November of each year to participate in year end fundraising and stewardship initiatives.

Term

Directors are elected by majority action of the board for a term of three (3) years, starting on the date of such election, and hold office until the expiration of the term for which elected and until a successor is elected and qualified.