Trustees Advisory Council

Mission Statement

The Trustees Advisory Council is a leadership organization of invited alumni and friends who annually consider questions and issues identified by the University's Board of Trustees, both from a national perspective and from Fairfield's particular context.

Membership

Membership is by invitation of the President based on nominations put forward by the University's Advancement Office. The Council includes approximately 80 members who represent the University's various constituencies: alumni; current and past parents; friends; and regional/national businesses and foundations. Election to the Council is offered to those who have demonstrated a commitment to the University.

Council membership provides an opportunity to: 1) stay informed about Fairfield; 2) influence the future of the University; and 3) expand contacts among alumni, faculty, and staff.

Each advisor serves a three-year term and is eligible to be reappointed. Membership renewal takes place in the spring.

In support of the mission and programs of Fairfield University, each member of the Trustees Advisory Council will make the University one of their primary philanthropic commitments and will make an annual contribution according to personal means.

Organizational Structure

The President of the University participates in each of the Council's two meetings.

Two members of the Board of Trustees serve as liaisons to the Council and report twice a year through a standing report on the Council's work to the Board Chairman, the President, and the full Board. Occasionally, the Chairman of the Council is invited to meetings of the Board of Trustees.

The Council's Chair is invited by the President and serves a three-year term, presiding over the two annual meetings each year.

Advancement staff members provide institutional support to the Council, including a Development Liaison who manages the Council.

Meetings

The Trustees Advisory Council meets twice annually - in the fall and in the spring.

An orientation session is offered for all new Council members in the early fall to acquaint them with the work of the Council and the presiding Chair.