Fuqua on Board connects Duke MBA students with Durham-area nonprofits to serve as non-voting board members, offering a hands-on opportunity to engage in nonprofit governance. Over the course of a year-long experience, students partner with a board mentor, participate in board and committee meetings, and contribute as active members of the board community.
In addition to ongoing board service, FOB Fellows complete a strategic project for their nonprofit partner, focused on strengthening board governance and organizational effectiveness. This experience allows students to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world context while making a meaningful contribution to the organization.
Through FOB, students build a deep understanding of how nonprofit boards operate and the critical role they play in advancing mission-driven organizations. Fellows benefit from structured training, coaching, and peer support throughout the program.
FOB is an extracurricular volunteer commitment that equips participants with practical skills and confidence to serve as effective and thoughtful board members now and in the future.
Benefits
- Gain a firsthand, in-depth understanding of nonprofit board governance and leadership.
- Learn from experienced board mentors and sector leaders.
- Develop skills for impactful, values-driven leadership in your career.
- Apply and strengthen business, strategy, and communication skills in a real-world setting.
Eligibility
Students applying to FOB must:
- Be a First Year Daytime MBA student. (Note: Because the program runs January-December, students must apply during their first year of the MBA program)
- Commit 8-10 hours per month to the engagement, including training sessions, board meeting and committee meetings, preparation, and project work.
- Attend all mandatory preparatory workshops and the capstone presentation.
Application Process
There is a competitive application process for joining Fuqua on Board and full details will be posted to the CASE FuquaConnect page in early Fall. The general process is as follows:
- An information session to learn more about the program and commitment will take place during the Fall 1 term.
- Candidates must submit an online application during Fall 1 to express their interest in the program and priority nonprofits for matching
- Select candidates will be invited to interview during Fall 1.
- Students selected for the program will be notified about their nonprofit match ad must confirm their position in early Fall 2.
