Associate Board Nominations
Thank you for your interest in the Associate Board of the Dayton Art Institute!
The Dayton Art Institute Associate Board was established in 1962 as a group of community leaders who support the sustainment and growth of the museum. The Associate Board is a working board of volunteers responsible for planning, executing, and ensuring the financial success of the DAI’s largest fundraising events: Art Ball and Oktoberfest. Since its inception, these incredible volunteers have raised over $9 million and committed more than 385,000 volunteer hours!
Associate Board Mission and Vision
Our mission is to cultivate a thriving arts community by supporting the Dayton Art Institute’s initiatives. We envision a future where art is accessible to all, and events serve as experiences to further arts and culture. Through our dedicated efforts, we aim to inspire future generations to appreciate and engage with the arts. By collaborating with local businesses and organizations, we play a critical role in raising funds for the museum that cover everything from daily operating expenses to new art acquisition to art conservation and more.
Nominations are now open for our newest Associate Board members. We invite you to complete the following application for consideration in the next class!
To be considered for Associate Board membership, interested duos should submit an application at the link below. Applications are accepted each year from August 1 through September 15. Interviews are conducted in October, with notifications made shortly thereafter. The Associate Board year begins with New Member Orientation on the third Thursday in January.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join the Associate Board?
Any adult duo over the age of 21 who is willing and able to commit to Associate Board requirements is eligible to apply. This is a duos Board, which means that two people join together as a unit to serve the Board term. Duos can be any type of partnership (spouse, partner, colleague, family, friend, etc.).
What types of volunteers are best suited to the Associate Board?
This is a hands-on, interactive, working Board! If you enjoy teamwork, event logistics (both planning and execution), and group volunteering, the Associate Board is a great fit.
How long is the Associate Board term?
The DAI Associate Board term is four years, with each year running January to December. The Board is divided into four classes: Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, Senior.
What is the Associate Board commitment?
Associate Board members commit to:
- Attending meetings (both full Board and committees as assigned). The Associate Board meets on the third Thursday of February, March, April, May, July, August, September, and November from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the museum.
- Participating in Art Ball and Oktoberfest (both advance work and setup, and the event itself). Art Ball is the second Saturday in June and Oktoberfest is the fourth full weekend in September.
- Completing an annual financial commitment (including dues, event tickets, and museum membership). This amount is approximately $1,095 per year, per duo.
How much time does being an Associate Board member take?
The average Associate Board member gives about 75 hours of service each year, with those in leadership positions (such as Executive Committee officers, event chairs, and committee chairs) giving more.
Questions? Contact Audrey Starr (AB ’22), signature events coordinator, at astarr@daytonart.org or 937-223-5277 x211, who serves as DAI staff liaison to the Associate Board.