Background
The TESOL International Association board of directors election process underwent improvements in 2016 in response to the work of the Nominating Committee Policies & Procedures Manual Task Force (2014-2015). The Nominating Committee Procedure Manual was created, and policy recommendations were made (e.g., what to expect of the nominees, and nominee qualifications). The process is updated annually at the end of each election cycle based on recommendations from the Nominating Committee. However, recurring challenges have been identified in the election process:
- Identifying a sufficient pool of candidates.
- Selecting candidates based on competencies and diversity.
- Presenting candidates to the membership.
- Handling of applications in a timely manner.
- Engaging the membership in the election process and voting.
- Campaigning, electioneering, and communicating on social media.
- Understanding demands on the Nominating Committee members (e.g., vetting of Expressions of Interest (EOIs)) and candidates (e.g., writing of EOIs).
In January 2023, the board of directors approved the creation of a task force to identify innovations and improvements that would address these challenges and provide recommendations to the board on modifications to the current practice.
TESOL members who are interested in participating can click on the button below for more information.