Join the Associate Board
The One Million Degrees Associate Board is now closed. If you have any questions, learn more about getting involved, or become a member, email
Grace Oxley at GOxley@onemilliondegrees.org
- FY27 Term: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027
- New Member Applications: closed
Associate Board
EMPOWER FUTURES
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HOW THE AB SUPPORTS OMD
Support Scholars
Through coaching, panel participation & networking
Elevate OMD visibility
Through donor and volunteer engagement
Engage community members
In OMD’s mission across Chicago
What to expect as a new Associate Board Member
Whether you’re applying to The Associate Board or returning for another year, here’s a snapshot at expectations, subcommittee opportunities and key dates for 2026-27
Join a Subcommittee
Scholar Support & Program Engagement – Goal: Deliver one board-supported scholar engagement activity
Fundraising & Partnerships – Goal: Lead one Associate Board fundraising campaign
Community Building & Events – Goal: Host one professional development workshop for board members
Member Commitments
Join one subcommittee aligned with your interests and availability
Attend quarterly board meetings (4 per year)
Support annual board initiatives and campaigns
Serve as an OMD ambassador in your professional network
Participate in volunteer, fundraising, or scholar engagement opportunities
STEPS NEEDED
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HOW MEMBERS EARN CREDIT
Minimum 10 points required for active member status. Participation is flexible and recognizes the many ways members contribute — there’s no single right way to hit your points.
5 pts – 1 pt per meeting attended
4 pts – 1 pt per meeting (4 total)
1 pt (Scholar or volunteer events count)
WHY JOIN?
Support Scholars
Mentor students, volunteer at events, and help prepare scholars for successful careers.
Grow Your Impact
Use your skills to plan events, raise funds, and connect OMD with new corporate and community partners.
Build Your Network
Join a diverse group of professionals passionate about education, equity, and opportunity.
New Member Timeline
Career Exposure Opportunities
Encourage students to explore different career options and identify pathways by hosting or taking part in OMD events like:
- Career Exploration Panels
- Speed Networking
- Wisdom in the Workplace
June 22 – July 11, 2026:
New Member Application Window
July 11–25, 2026:
Applications reviewed by the OMD Partnerships Team
August 6, 2026:
Quarterly Meeting #1 — your first official meeting, with new member welcome & onboarding
Ongoing:
Connect with your subcommittee lead, set your participation goals, and start earning points toward Good Standing
Quarterly Board Meetings:
a. Summer – 8/6/26
b. Fall – 11/12/26
c. Winter – 3/12/27
d. Spring – 6/12/27
Want to learn more?
Come to our next Associate Board Happy Hour to network and meet OMD staff.
Ready to get involved? Fill out our Associate Board application below and we'll be in touch.
Meet
the Associate Board
The One Million Degrees Associate Board is a community of emerging leaders committed to educational equity and career opportunity for Chicago’s community college scholars. Members support OMD’s mission through volunteerism, fundraising, and events, all while building their leadership skills and professional network. If you’re interested in learning more about the Associate Board or getting involved, please email Grace Oxley at omdassociateboard@onemilliondegrees.org.
OMD Associate Board 2026-27 Application
Thank you for your interest in the Associate Board. Unfortunately, we have closed the board application window.
Please reach out to GOxley@onemilliondegrees.org for more information.
