By Cil Knutsen, Board of Trustees Member-at-Large
Reflecting on my previous experience as UU Board Member and President at another congregation, my visceral reaction was one of dread and trepidation. There was STRICT adherence to the overly ambitious Agenda. Our Co-Minister time-keeper ended discussion right at the appointed time. Okay, there were times we got an additional five minutes, however we rarely reached a consensus of all voices with that brief extension. Despite being a Board meeting, the Co-Ministers wrested control should they deem steering was required. The power struggle was subtle, yet fierce; the tension and dysfunction palpable. My stomach clenches as I write this, even years later.
Fast forward to 2023, when I joined The U. I felt a difference here immediately. Less self-congratulatory and presumptuous. More real, genuine. More curious.
I joined the Choir and served as a delegate to the UUA General Assembly. I got involved in Climate Justice. I felt more solid footing. When asked to serve on the Board for a year, I thought, “Sure, let’s give it a twirl.”
Little did I suspect that being a Member-at-Large would be so satisfying and rewarding. The approach to governance here is collaborative and earnest. Meetings are productive and respectful of time. This Sabbatical year has had so much less drama and turmoil than before. It’s been comparable to other healthy congregations.
We get down to business without fuss and bother. The monthly Board Package is straightforward and easy to follow. We are diverse in many different ways, and I value our diversity of thought the most. Fellowship dinner beforehand enables rich friendships to form for this relative newcomer. I truly look forward to our monthly meetings!
When invited to serve for a whole term beyond my one year, I said “YES!” without hesitation. Governance is often compared to making sausage – you don’t want to see it happening. In our case, you would get to see the equivalent of a Southern grandmother making a perfect lemon meringue pie. I encourage you to visit our meetings and see your stewards of The U in action. You might want to give it a try yourself!