Governance Framework
GIDAFS’s governance framework assigns strategic oversight to the Board of Directors and defined responsibilities to the President and directors. The Board is required to act in the Institute’s best interests and in support of its nonprofit mission.
Set strategic priorities and approve annual plans and reports.
Approve internal policies, procedures, and programs.
Oversee financial operations and the use of funds.
Appoint and supervise officers.
Decide on key projects, partnerships, and initiatives.
Oversee compliance with applicable obligations and nonprofit requirements.
Founding & Organizational Documents
The Institute’s governing document defines its mission, areas of activity, governance structure, and principles for the use of resources. It also establishes the basis for research, education, professional recognition, and cooperation with other institutions.
Internal regulations provide the detailed framework for individual programs and governance bodies as they are established.
Ethics & Conflicts of Interest
Transparency, independence, integrity, and accountability are core governance principles. A conflict of interest can arise when personal, professional, or financial interests affect, or appear to affect, an institutional decision.
The governing document requires officials to disclose potential or actual conflicts promptly and to refrain from participating in affected decisions. Decisions must serve the Institute’s mission and interests.
The Institute’s framework also provides for nondiscrimination and the development of procedures that support ethical conduct and impartial decision-making.
Funding & Independence
Permitted sources of support include grants, charitable contributions, research and partnership funding, and income from educational or other mission-related programs. The governing document requires these resources to be used for the Institute’s statutory purposes.
Organizational income is not distributable to founders, members, or officers. The framework permits reasonable compensation for services actually rendered and requires financial decisions to remain consistent with the Institute’s nonprofit purpose.
Financial Accountability & Reporting
The Institute’s governing framework provides for proper accounting records, financial and tax reporting, and documentation of the use of funds. Board oversight and reporting to funders form part of that framework.
Grant funding and designated contributions are to be used in accordance with their agreed purposes and applicable requirements. The governing document also provides for the possibility of an independent audit.
For information about available organizational or financial records, please contact GIDAFS.
Program Rules & Regulations
Educational programs, certification, professional membership, fellowship, and awards require detailed rules suited to their purpose. These rules define matters such as participation, assessment, selection, and the responsibilities of the relevant committees.
The Institute’s governing framework authorizes these activities, while their implementation depends on approved programs and procedures.
Public Policy and Nonpartisanship
The Institute’s policy role is grounded in research and expert analysis. Its governing document prohibits participation in political campaigns for or against candidates for public office and places limits on lobbying activity.
Governance Inquiries
Please contact GIDAFS with questions about its governance, organizational documents, reporting framework, or potential conflicts of interest. Identify the matter and the information you are requesting so that the inquiry can be directed appropriately.