Temple Begins Transition to New Governance Structure

Temple Emanu-El leaders have begun moving toward a reimagined governance structure following the unanimous approval in January of new bylaws for the congregation.

The Transition Task Force, led by Linda Wimberly, is seeking recommendations for nomination to the Leadership Council, the new advisory group that will provide input and guidance on signi cant Temple matters. The Leadership Council will consist of up to 30 members.

“In the many stakeholder conversations we had throughout the 18-month process of amending the bylaws, our leaders all agreed on the importance of maintaining broad-based input and participation in key decisions that affect congregational life,” says Sara Albert, co-chair of the Bylaws Task Force and first vice president. “The new Leadership Council will assure that our Board of Trustees hears a wide range of diverse viewpoints from our membership before taking action in those areas.”

The Leadership Council is separate from Temple’s Board of Trustees; members do not have governance rights or juduciary responsibilities. While lacking formal voting power, however, the Leadership Council’s approval will be required in connection with the future selection of a new senior rabbi and approval of new or amended bylaws.

The task force is not currently seeking recommendations for nominations to the Board, as leaders expect that current trustees who have remaining time on their terms will fill the 2025-2026 Board positions.

This year’s nomination process will include selecting a slate of officers including the vice president.

Also approved under the new bylaws, a permanent Nominating and Governance Committee will be responsible for future nominations to the Board and Leadership Council. That committee will be launched at the beginning of the new Board year on June 1.

Access the Leadership Council nomination form and job description here. Please submit your form by March 12. Thank you in advance for being part of this important process!

For questions about the transition, contact Linda Wimberly, lbwimberly@gmail.com.