CAST depends on scientists, researchers, and professionals who contribute their expertise to publications, programs, and governance. This hub covers every volunteer role at CAST — what you do, what CAST does for you, the policies that apply, and who to contact.
Volunteer Hub
The CAST Board of Directors provides strategic oversight, approves publication proposals, and guides the direction of the organization. Board members are elected from within CAST’s workgroup leadership.
The Board of Directors is CAST's governing body. Board members set organizational direction, approve or decline publication proposals recommended by workgroups, review financial and operational matters, and represent CAST's mission to external audiences.
Board members are elected from within CAST's workgroup leadership. Workgroup Chairs who complete their term are eligible to join the Board of Directors, providing continuity between the scientific and governance layers of CAST.
Term length and election procedures are governed by CAST Bylaws. Board members serve staggered three-year terms to ensure continuity and stability. Contact CAST staff for current terms and vacancies.
One of the Board's primary functions is reviewing publication proposals that have been recommended by a workgroup. The Board's vote determines whether a Task Force is assembled. Approval requires a simple majority.
Board members may also receive copyright requests from Task Force authors seeking to use CAST-owned visuals or design materials in external publications. These requests are reviewed by the full Board.
Board members are listed on the CAST website's Board of Directors page with their bio, headshot, title, and institution. CAST may also feature Board members in governance communications and event materials.
CAST needs the following from every Board member:
Your profile is used for the Board of Directors listing page, governance communications, the CAST Annual Report, and event materials. Submit to your CAST staff contact when your term begins.
Yes. Board members may participate in Task Force publications and workgroup activities. However, they should be mindful of their governance role when voting on proposals where they have a direct authorship interest — consult CAST staff if you have questions about conflicts.
Proposals recommended by a workgroup are presented to the full Board for review and vote. Approval requires a simple majority. If approved, CAST staff assemble a Task Force to develop the publication.
The typical path is through workgroup leadership: serve as Co-Chair, then Chair, and upon completing your Chair term you become eligible for a Board seat. Elections and nominations are coordinated by CAST staff.
No. Board eligibility requires active Representative Member status. Legacy Members are former Board members who have already completed their Board service.
Disclose the connection to CAST staff before the vote. CAST staff will advise on whether recusal is appropriate.
No. The Board only reviews proposals that a workgroup has affirmatively recommended. The workgroup vote is a prerequisite for Board review.
Yes. CAST encourages Board members to list their role on LinkedIn and other professional profiles. Let CAST staff know if you do — we can amplify it from CAST's channels.
