Joy In Learning...And In Leading!

J.R.R. Tolkien has been credited as being the forefather of fantasy. He invested years in the creation of his writings. Famously, he has been quoted as saying, “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us.”

More recently, the American businessman and inventor, Steve Jobs, was called a visionary and a modern-day da Vinci. His notable quote about time is, “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.”

Why talk about time in the context of Osher at CMU? Because we are in a unique time of seeking candidates for leadership positions in our organization. We recognize and value the time of our members and volunteers. We know that it takes time to develop the levels of interest and commitment that result in future leaders for our non-profit, largely-volunteer organization. Life presents unending opportunities for people to decide where to invest their limited, personal time.

When speaking with current and prior Board members, invariably you will hear testimony of positive experiences and rewards gained through leadership. Is now your time to consider applying for Osher at CMU Board membership? Are you willing to invest a few hours each month to the important role of governing and setting strategy? Can you expand your time commitment a bit beyond learning and/or teaching to actively leading on the Board?

This is not a fantasy. We urgently need to build our leadership “team.” This could be an opportunity for you - the Nominating Committee is getting ready for the interview process - applications are due by February 1, 2025.

If you have questions and would like to better understand the requirements for being a Board member, please reach out to our Executive Director, Lyn Decker, or our President, Sankar Seetharama. The experience can be a joy and can truly be “time well spent.”

Prepared by Jan Hawkins, Chair, Nominating Committee