THE CREDIBILITY OF NONPROFIT BOARDS - A VIEW FROM THE 1990S AND BEYOND

The wrongdoings of nonprofit organizations have become grist for the m edia mill. The authors explore five of the more recently publicized ca ses of nonprofits gone wrong: the United Way of America, National Asso ciation for the Advancement of Colored People, Foundation for New Era Philanthropy, Jewish Community Center of Greater Washington, and Upsal a College, and their significance in regard to the role and functionin g of the board. Discussion focuses on the implications of these cases in regard to nonprofits' credibility and strategic options for enhanci ng accountability. Unless governing boards address some of their defic iencies, tighter government regulations, increased donor skepticism, a nd greater demands and expectations upon them will result.