Welcome to the 2024-2025 Sevananda Board of Directors Elections Page

The Elections Committee is excited to share that it’s time for the Call for Candidates phase of the Annual Board Elections.

December 21, 2024 through January 24, 2025 application will be available online, using the link below (or QR Code). If you are not able to submit your application electronically, the committee will have paper applications available at the customer service desk for pick up.

Click Here for Candidate Application

Hard copy packets can only be returned via email or fax. More details will be provided with the packet.
All applications, and all requested additional materials are due by the end of the day on January 24th, 2025. Late applications will not be considered for elections.

Per Bylaw 3.01, qualifications to run for Elections are:

• Have been a Member for at least one year prior to his or her nomination or application for a board of director position.
• Shall be at least eighteen years of age.
• Shall not have any overriding conflict of interest with Sevananda.
• Shall be committed to the best interests of the co-op and to following Sevananda’s Bylaws and policies.
• Shall commit to the time requirement necessary to complete the work of the Board.

Per Bylaw 3.01.6 – An Applicant shall meet any other reasonable eligibility requirements as may be set by the Board from time to time.

The Board of Directors has determined the following criteria to meet the needs of the Board:

1. Qualifications
   1. Education or Experience
      1. Minimum Associate’s degree from an accredited school plus minimum 2 years managerial experience, or
      2. 5 years of managerial experience in any field
   2. Investment of Time/Availability
      1. Must be willing and able to attend monthly board meetings, and
      2. Devote adequate time to board duties (minimum 3 hours/week)
      3. Serve on at least one Board committee (minimum 1-3 hours/week)
      4. Attend board retreats and trainings (minimum 1-3 days/bi-annually)
   3. Interpersonal Skills
      1. Candidate must exhibit the highest moral and ethical character
      2. Candidate must exhibit independence and teamwork spirit
      3. Candidate must possess great communication skills (verbal and written)
      4. Candidate must have the utmost discretion with access to sensitive and personal information
2. Mandatory
   1. Candidate must not be a current employee of Sevananda or seeking employment with Sevananda**
   2. Candidate must attend the board meeting on January 28, 2025, and stay for the entire meeting.
   3. Candidate must attend in-person, “Candidate Orientation” on February 1, 2025, 11a-1p in the Sevananda Education room, downstairs.
3. Highly Recommended
   1. Participate in all candidate “Meet and Greets” in-person, in the Sevananda Education room, downstairs, during the voting phase of elections.
      Meet/Greet Dates
      • 1st meet/greet- Thursday, February 13th @ 6:30p
      • 2nd meet/greet- Saturday, March 1st @ 11a
   2. Complete brief “Why Vote for Me” Video message that will be posted on our Instagram and Facebook page.
   3. Go Live on our social platforms (Facebook or Instagram) to give members another opportunity to engage with you directly.
   4. Attend all board meetings during the elections process. 

What Is the Board’s Role?

The Board of Directors is the legal representative of the member/owners and, as such, is responsible for the overall well-being of Sevananda. The Board exercises its authority through its relationship with the General Manager, whom it hires and monitors. All of the board’s expectations and requirements for the General Manager’s performance are clearly stated in the Board’s written policies.  So, the Board ensures the Coop’s success by verifying that the General Manager remains in compliance with the Board’s policies.

What the Board Does Not Do

The Board does not involve itself in operational details. We do not make decisions about what we stock, the specifics of personnel issues, or the color of our walls. The Board governs by declaring, through its policies, the results it wants and the actions it wants the General Manager to avoid while achieving those results.

What are the Benefits of Joining the Board?

 As a board member, you will have a unique opportunity to impact the future of Sevananda. Board of Directors are also provided a monthly stipend for their service through the end of their term. You will have an opportunity to use your Board discount every day you shop with Sevananda through the end of your term. Lastly, you will have an opportunity to join like-minded members who are eager to help foster the growth and prosperity of Sevananda.

We’re looking forward to a great election this year and meeting our fellow member-owners excited to be in the joy of service with us! Email any questions to election@sevananda.coop.

In Service,
Sevananda Board of Directors Elections Committee