ESCANABA — What are the qualities of success? I am sure that it can be argued that these qualities vary based on who you ask and what facet of their life they are thinking about.

Regarding the success of a business or nonprofit organization, I think agreement can be reached that qualities of success include leadership that trust and respect each other, diversity of people, ideas and opinions, diverse revenue streams and professional, competent staff.

One facet that public organizations have that most private businesses don’t directly have experience with, is the element of a board of directors. However, it is highly likely that at some point in an employee’s life, they will interact with a board of directors in some capacity, whether it be at their church, Little League, financial institution or local charitable organization. With over 250 nonprofit organizations in Delta County alone, it is important that our constituents have tools and information on Board Governance and Development.

On April 13, 2018 at Uppertunties, Matthew Downey from the Johnson Center at Grand Valley State University will be offering two breakout sessions for attendees. Board Governance & Development and Building a Charismatic Business or Organization.

I attended the board session in January at the Michigan Association of Fair and Exhibitors Annual Convention in Grand Rapids and the information was very valuable. Understanding the various structures of boards and the relationships between working boards and their CEO is important when trying to set and reach the goals of your organization.

Attendees will leave the session with ideas on board and legal responsibility, how to create a culture of strategic thinking and tools for board development and structure.

Additional sessions at Uppertunities include Customer Service Training, Social Media Marketing, Attaining and Retaining Talent and a Pure Michigan Update.

The fee for the one-day event, which includes breakfast, lunch and exceptional education and networking opportunities remains at $59. The fee to reserve a spot in the tradeshow is $99 and includes one ticket to the conference.

Uppertunities sponsors are the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, UPWARD Talent Council Michigan Works!, Travel Marquette Michigan, Visit Escanaba, U.P. Travel, Delta County EDA, TV6 UpperMichiganSource.com/Fox UP, Roy Ness Contracting and OSF Health Care St.Francis Hospital.

To register or for additional information, contact Delta County Chamber of Commerce at 906-786-2192.

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Sheila Krueger is associate director of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce