Having been on multiple boards through my adult life and career, I have often been asked – what is it that you do as a Board member?
Well, board members play a central but often misunderstood role in organizations. They are not involved in daily operations, nor are they meant to replace management. Instead, they serve as stewards of the institution’s long-term health, purpose, and integrity. Whether in a business or a nonprofit, the board exists to provide oversight, strategic direction, and accountability, ensuring that the organization remains aligned with its mission while operating responsibly and sustainably.
For nonprofits, boards are even more essential. Because nonprofits do not exist to generate profit, trust and mission alignment are paramount. Donors, communities, and beneficiaries rely on boards to ensure that resources are used as promised and that programs truly serve their intended purpose.
Ultimately, board members matter because they hold organizations accountable to something larger than any single leader or moment in time. They safeguard mission, integrity, and sustainability. A strong board guides without controlling, challenges without undermining, and supports without overstepping.
As a board member, I’m proud of the work we do because it reflects shared values and a genuine commitment to impact. Serving on the board means lending time, experience, and judgment to strengthen an organization beyond personal gain. It’s about stewardship, accountability, and helping turn vision into meaningful outcomes. I take pride in collaborating with dedicated colleagues, supporting leadership, and making decisions that serve the community with integrity. Knowing that our efforts help advance the mission, sustain trust, and create lasting value makes this role both a responsibility and an honor.
~Sheela Murthy
CURRENT BOARDS
United Way of Northeast Florida
At United Way of Northeast Florida, they work to create a community of opportunity where everyone has hope and can reach their full potential.
Maryland Institute, College of Art
The Maryland Institute, College of Art (MICA) is among the top art colleges in the country.
JHPIEGO
An international, nonprofit health organization affiliated with The Johns Hopkins University,
Baltimore Museum of Art
The Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA) was founded more than a century ago, on the principle that access to art and ideas is integral to a vibrant and healthy city.
Some of Murthy’s past service to boards, councils, and committees:
Maryland Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Chair, Board of Directors (2020-2022)
Stevenson University, Board of Trustees (2008-2017, 2019-2022)
Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Eastern Region, Board of Directors (2011-2021)
ASHA for Women, Washington D.C., Board of Advisors (2009-2020)
Maryland Chamber of Commerce, Chair, Board of Directors, (2015-2017)
Pratham D.C., Board of Directors (2010-2016)
United Way of Central Maryland (UWCM), Board of Directors (2009-2015)
UWCM Chair of the Campaign (2019) & Tocqueville Society Chair (2023-2024)
TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) D.C., President, Board of Directors (2018)
United Way Worldwide, Chair, Leadership Council for India (2011-2015)
Girl Scouts of Central Maryland, Chair, Board of Directors (2010-2014)
Harvard Law School, Dean’s Advisory Council, Cambridge, MA (2009-2012)
Bar Association of Baltimore City, YLS, Executive Committee (1989-1994)
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