Nashville Urban Debate League

Board Member

Nashville Urban Debate League

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Job Summary

About NUDL: Founded in 2010, the Nashville Urban Debate League (NUDL) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering public school students in the Metro Nashville area through the transformative power of competitive debate. We believe that debate builds critical thinking, effective communication, academic success, and civic engagement- skills that last a lifetime and open doors to opportunity. To learn more about NUDL, please visit our website: www.nashvilledebate.org

Job Summary: NUDL is seeking passionate, engaged, and community-minded individuals to join our Board of Directors. As a board member, you will serve as an ambassador for our mission and help guide the strategic, financial, and organizational growth of the league. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on Nashville’s youth while shaping the future of a dynamic education nonprofit.

Job Responsibilities

As a member of the NUDL Board of Directors, you will:

  • Champion NUDL’s mission and values by acting as a public advocate and spokesperson for the organization.

  • Attend and actively participate in board meetings (every other month) and support relevant committee work.

  • Stay informed about NUDL’s programs, finances, and organizational priorities.

  • Make a personal financial contribution at a level that is meaningful to you each year.

  • Participate in NUDL’s fundraising efforts by helping to secure donations, sponsorships, or in-kind contributions.

  • Attend and support a minimum of two NUDL tournaments and one fundraising event per year.

  • Collaborate with fellow board members and the Executive Director to make informed, strategic decisions.

  • Maintain high ethical standards and disclose any conflicts of interest.

Qualifications

Ideal candidates will bring some or all of the following:

  • A deep belief in the power of education and youth development, particularly for students from under-resourced communities.

  • Prior experience serving on a nonprofit board, OR a willingness to learn and grow in board governance.

  • Skills in one or more of the following areas: fundraising, law, education, analytics/ data management, human resources, nonprofit management, marketing, finance, policy, or corporate partnerships.

  • Strong networks in Nashville’s business, philanthropic, government, or education communities.

  • Availability to attend meetings and events and fulfill fundraising and volunteer commitments.

  • A collaborative spirit, commitment to equity, and passion for empowering young people.

We welcome individuals who are new to nonprofit board service and are committed to learning and growing in this role. Our Board Chair is available to provide mentorship and support as you gain experience. We welcome those without a familiarity of debate to apply. If you believe in the power of youth voices, critical dialogue, and are passionate about expanding opportunities for young people, then you are aligned with NUDL’s mission! We are especially interested in candidates whose lived experiences reflect those of the students we serve, and who are passionate about educational equity and opportunity.

Additional Information

Benefits

While this is a volunteer role, serving on the NUDL Board of Directors offers meaningful professional and personal benefits, including:

  • Board Development & Mentorship: Gain hands-on experience in nonprofit governance, budgeting, strategic planning, and fundraising- with support from experienced board leaders.

  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow professionals, educators, and community leaders who share a commitment to educational equity.

  • Mission-Driven Work: Be part of an inspiring community dedicated to empowering youth through critical thinking, advocacy, and civic engagement.

How to Apply

Please send a brief email expressing your interest along with a resume or LinkedIn profile to our Board Chair Rob Harris (rob.harris@hklaw.com) and our Executive Director Starr Rhee (srhee@nashvilledebate.org). In your message, please include:

  • Why you are interested in joining the NUDL Board of Directors

  • Any relevant experience or expertise you would bring to the organization

  • How you hope to contribute to NUDL’s mission

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. If you are interested but would like more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions!

Details

  • Date Posted: April 30, 2025
  • Type: Board Member
  • Job Function: Accounting / Financial Management
  • Service Area: Board Leadership
  • Start Date: 07/31/2025
  • Working Hours: 5 hrs/ month