How to Plan, Design, and Facilitate a Great Board Retreat

How to Plan, Design, and Facilitate a Great Board Retreat

August 20, 2026
11:30am-1:00pm

Virtual

At times, all board members need to spend dedicated time away from the usual routine of board business to focus on the bigger picture. A retreat offers the opportunity to delve more deeply into strategy, visioning, or specific issues that they are unable to address during regular board meetings. There are a range of topics that retreats might focus on, such as board development, group learning, discussion of internal and/or external strategic issues, reflection and planning, and relationship and trust building.  

This webinar will address: 

  • The purpose and power of retreats to strengthen the board; 
  • How to design a retreat agenda to be engaging, inclusive, productive and fun; and 
  • Facilitation tips and tricks; and 
  • Logistical considerations such as when and where to schedule your retreat. 

 Please click here to register. 

 This session is part of a series. You can find more information on the entire series or other sessions by clicking here

 

About the Facilitator 

Marla Cornelius, MNA 

Nonprofit Leadership, Management, and Board Governance Consultant  

Certified Gallup Strengths Coach  

Marla Cornelius works with organizations and leaders committed to social justice. She is skilled at designing programs and consulting engagements that blend highly relevant theory with practical application. Her deep understanding of nonprofits, the challenges facing leaders, and the way that power plays out in organizations enables her to create environments where clients can explore new realities, learn new approaches, and achieve their goals. Marla is an expert trainer, coach, and consultant who has also co-authored a number of national studies and research reports on leadership. She has extensive board experience and currently serves on the board of Cat Town, an animal rescue and rehabilitation organization in Oakland, CA.