What to know about serving on the AAPI LEAD board.
This page is here to help you understand who we are, what the board does, and exactly what we'd ask of you as a director — so you can decide with a full picture. The role is meaningful, and the time commitment is intentionally light.
Who we are and what we do.
AAPI LEAD exists to facilitate meaningful participation of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the American democratic process — serving in elected and appointed offices at all levels of government, in every jurisdiction, and across the political spectrum. We convene one of the largest national networks of AAPI public officials, and our board sets the direction for that work.
A national movement
A fast-growing organization connecting AAPI public officials from across the country.
A trusted peer network
Serve alongside fellow elected and appointed leaders who understand the realities of public service.
Lasting representation
Help build the pipeline and platform for the next generation of AAPI leadership in government.
The board you'd be joining.
Our current directors are elected and appointed officials from across the country, representing every level of government.
Your role on the board.
Board members provide governance and oversight and serve as ambassadors for the mission. This is a strategy-and-stewardship role, not a day-to-day operational one. Here's what that involves — and, just as importantly, what it doesn't.
Governance & oversight
Help set mission and strategy, and approve and authorize the organization's budget and major decisions.
Fiduciary stewardship
Support sound financial practices and ensure compliance with the bylaws and applicable law.
Ambassadorship
Represent AAPI LEAD publicly and, where you're able, open doors through your networks.
Committee participation
Optionally lend your expertise to a board committee or task force where it fits your interests.
Meeting engagement
Attend regular board meetings and contribute your perspective on the issues before the board.
Who serves, and how it works.
Who's eligible
Current elected or appointed public officials at the federal, state, or local level of U.S. government — from all jurisdictions and political backgrounds.
Board size
Up to 25 directors, including one seat appointed by the AAPI LEAD Foundation. Composition intentionally reflects geographic, jurisdictional, and community diversity.
Terms
Two-year terms, renewable up to two consecutive terms. About half of the seats are elected each year at the Annual Meeting.
How you're selected
Candidates are nominated by the Nominations & Membership Committee and elected by a majority vote of the board.
Read the full bylaws
Everything on this page is a summary. The AAPI LEAD (c4) Bylaws are the governing document and the definitive source on board composition, terms, meetings, and duties.
If you decide to join, here's the path.
Express interest
Reach out to let us know you'd like to learn more about board service.
Conversation
We'll walk you through the role, answer questions, and share the bylaws and duties.
Nomination
The Nominations & Membership Committee presents your name to the board.
Election & welcome
The board votes at the Annual Meeting, and we onboard you to get started.
Good things to know.
How much time does it really take?
The role is designed to be light. You're expected to attend regular board meetings — in person, by phone, or by video — and the only firm rule is not missing more than two consecutive meetings without letting us know in advance.
Is there a fundraising or give/get requirement?
No. There is no give/get fundraising quota for AAPI LEAD (c4) board members.
Is the position compensated?
No — board service is a volunteer role. Reasonable expenses may be reimbursed as determined by the board.
Can I participate remotely?
Yes. Participating by conference phone or video counts fully as being present at the meeting.
Do I need to hold public office?
Yes. Directors must be current elected or appointed public officials at the federal, state, or local level at the start of each two-year term.
What's the term length?
Two years, and directors may be re-elected for up to two consecutive terms.
Where can I read the full rules?
The AAPI LEAD (c4) Bylaws govern everything summarized here. You can read the full bylaws here.
Questions as you consider?
We're glad to walk through anything on this page and answer whatever would help you decide. There's no pressure and no commitment in reaching out.
Questions? Contact Eddie Shiomi, COO of AAPI LEAD, at eshiomi@aapilead.org