One of the hallmarks of a maturing organization is its willingness to let go of control by a few in favor of the benefits of diverse perspectives and expertise. In the case of the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Board of Directors, control has almost always been at issue.
Signs of Change (and Signs of the Same Old Way of Doing Things)
For the first time as of this most recent election, there are now three women on the NBCE board of directors (out of 11 positions). And term limits are set at 12 years, although still considered by many to be twice as long as they should be.
In most organizations, "at-large" positions are used to add non-member board members who have important expertise that will make the board and the organization stronger. Historically, the at-large positions have been used by the NBCE board to extend the terms of those in control so they can keep control.
With four at-large director positions (elected by the board itself, rather than the NBCE members) of the 11 total board positions, it only takes two district / FCLB directors plus the four at-large directors to control the board's actions.
As an organization, the NBCE is sitting on approximately $20 million in liquid assets (in addition to land, buildings, equipment, etc.) – more than any other chiropractic organization. Many leaders in the profession continue to question why the current total exam costs are so high when the NBCE's annual net profit from all operations usually sits at about $1 million each year, which usually goes to increase its asset base.
As part of its efforts to be more transparent (something also lacking in the past), the NBCE issued a call for applications for nominations to fill two upcoming vacancies for the at-large board positions. For what is believed to be the first time in NBCE history, Kim Driggers, JD,* a non-DC, was elected to the NBCE board ... along with Farrel Grossman, DC, who has already served six years.
The importance of maintaining a strong, vibrant National Board cannot be overstated. And while there have been many steps toward transparency and accountability since the "good old boys" days, those efforts must continue.
More Work to Be Done
To keep itself relevant, the NBCE needs new blood with new expertise like Ms. Driggers. The progress begun this year needs to continue. The remaining at-large seats should be filled with representatives from the chiropractic colleges, licensing professionals outside chiropractic and someone with a strong background in running a multi-million dollar organization.
In addition, the NBCE board should look seriously at reducing the term limits to six years, and current board members should consider whether it is time to step away and let the organization evolve.
The NBCE has been given an exclusive position by the chiropractic profession to oversee the testing of its doctors as a sacred trust. That trust has been violated in the past by things that should not have been done. Now the call is for the NBCE to become a more mature organization. That trust should not be violated by what isn't done.
*Ms. Driggers currently serves as assistant general counsel to the Florida Chiropractic Association (FCA). You can review her impressive credentials at https://thenationalchiro.com/?team=kimberly-a-driggers.
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