150. Lindsay Currie, Executive Officer of CUR, on Strategic Planning, Board Coaching, and Broadening Participation

How can undergraduate research prepare students for civic engagement in a complex world? How should associations respond when the work of their members is under attack?In this episode of Associations Thrive, host Joanna Pineda interviews Lindsay Currie, Executive Officer of the Council on Undergraduate Research (CUR). Lindsay discusses:CUR's mission to expand access to undergraduate research and its proven long-term impact on student success, graduation rates, and civic engagement.The current challenges facing CUR members, including political and funding pressures on research and higher education.The organization's new strategic plan, CUR 2030, which features three major goals and includes cross-cutting themes: broadening participation, organizational sustainability, and communication.The decision to shift from “DEI” language to “broadening participation” to maximize inclusivity and participation, while still preserving the core values.CUR’s investment in a board coach to help shift from a “doing board” to a “strategic board” culture, and how that coach continues to foster executive and board collaboration.A rigorous and confidential nominations process that improves the quality and alignment of board candidates, avoiding the pitfalls of popularity contests.A layered onboarding process for new Board members, including coaching, board retreats, and annual reorientation to ensure all board members are aligned and equipped to lead strategically.CUR's emphasis on data, standards, and recognition to position itself as a leader in undergraduate research across higher education institutions.A comprehensive rollout strategy for the new plan, starting with CUR's 300 elected volunteers and culminating in a Fall 2025 campaign for the broader membership.References:CUR WebsiteLindsay Currie’s Previous Episode on Associations Thrive from October 2022ASAE’s ForesightWorks Framework