Board members need to know what is expected of them. For new members, board orientation can provide an initiation to board service; an introduction to the organization, its mission, and programs; clarification of future time and financial demands; an opportunity to get to know other board members; and a chance to form an educated foundation for the coming years of service on the board. For the board, the orientation ensures that every member is functioning within the same framework and with the same instructions. Every board has a culture that is defined by its own customs, traditions, and practices. Orientation also benefits the board as a team by providing an official launch for new partnerships and relationships. This 90 minute workshop on board orientation will provide the template for a valuable experience for both new and current board members.

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Sulam for Synagogue Leaders (SSL) is a leadership development program of the United Synagogue for Conservative Judaism (USCJ) that enables synagogues to have purposeful, energized and sustainable congregations. It provides a toolkit to support the creation of a set of plans for leadership, delegation, and accountability. It explores areas of support for volunteers and staff, as well as the visionary aspects that make synagogue leadership sacred. 

The word סלם (sulam) meaning ‘ladder’, stems from the biblical story of Jacob’s Ladder. It connotes the step-by-step progress that students achieve when given the opportunity to support and reach their goals. 

SSL offers a seven session program that showcases new ideas, approaches and practices to reach a higher level of leadership, fulfillment and engagement. SSL also provides an opportunity to work with USCJ’s Sulam Leadership team to identify your congregation’s needs and readiness to take the next step up the Sulam training ladder.