ARA Board Application

Applications are accepted year-round. The Board Nominations Committee reviews applications in the fall and winter and selects seven candidates and one alternate for the following year. Candidates are notified of their status in mid-March. Preference is given to applicants who have not previously served on the ARA Board, although prior service does not preclude a second term.

Before applying, we encourage you to connect with someone familiar with the Board (e.g., a current or former board member, staff or faculty member) to learn more about its work. While not required, this can help you craft a thoughtful application that highlights your strengths and aligns with the Board’s goals and commitments. Letters of recommendation are optional.

Applicants are encouraged to respond to each of the prompts below and consider responses of 150-200 words per question. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please see our frequently asked questions below or contact alumni@rice.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to serve on the ARA Board?

All Rice alumni are eligible to apply to serve on the ARA Board. Board members serve three-year terms and are expected to enthusiastically advocate for and support the ARA while taking an active role in the life of the university. While members bring varied interests, experiences and strengths, all Board members are expected to dedicate the time and energy necessary to support the ARA’s mission and meet the following participation expectations:

• Attend three Board meetings per year.
• Attend the President’s Town Hall during Alumni Weekend.
• Attend the Laureates Awards Dinner.
• Attend presidential visits in their region.
• Serve on at least one ARA task force per year.
• Complete post-Board meeting surveys.
• Contribute financially to Rice, regardless of amount or designation.
• Recruit alumni to apply to the ARA Board.
• Serve on ARA committees and provide overall support for ARA programs and activities.

How competitive is the ARA Board application process?

The ARA Board Nominations Committee reviews up to 70 applications each fiscal year. Because the process is highly competitive, not being selected in the first year does not mean a candidate is not a strong fit for the board. Applications remain under consideration for up to three years, and committee membership changes each year, giving applications fresh consideration.

What makes a strong ARA Board candidate?

The committee considers a range of factors when evaluating candidates, with particular emphasis on recent involvement with Rice and demonstrated leadership. Strong candidates often demonstrate:

• Meaningful engagement with Rice after graduation. This can include serving on career panels, mentoring students, hosting an Owl Edge Externship or participating in other alumni, academic, athletic or affinity programs.
• Diversity and representation. Because the board serves all Rice alumni, the committee considers diversity of gender, race, ethnicity, geography, class year, degree type, course of study, profession and other experiences when evaluating candidates and the overall composition of the 28-member board.
• Ongoing financial support of Rice. Regular financial support, regardless of the amount or area of the university supported, demonstrates continued commitment to Rice. The ARA Board is not a fundraising body, and the committee does not evaluate candidates based on the amount they give.
• Student leadership and involvement. Leadership and involvement as an undergraduate or graduate student can demonstrate dedication to Rice. However, because alumni have different opportunities to participate as students, involvement after graduation carries greater weight.
• Professional and community accomplishments. Professional honors, career accomplishments and community involvement can demonstrate a candidate’s ability and willingness to contribute as a board member, particularly when those experiences relate to the board’s work.

Does a candidate need to live in Houston?

No. Alumni outside the Houston area can demonstrate strong engagement through regional involvement and other ways of supporting Rice.

What can applicants do to strengthen their applications?

Provide specific examples of recent Rice involvement, leadership and impact. Rather than simply listing accomplishments, explain how the applicant has contributed to the Rice community and how their experience and perspective would benefit the ARA Board.