Board Election Process
Resource Page
 

We invite individuals who are passionate about our mission and committed to supporting the association's growth, governance, and community impact to consider serving or to nominate a qualified candidate. Board members play an important role in providing strategic leadership, advocacy, and stewardship to help advance our work. We encourage nominations from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and areas of expertise.

Commitment, integrity, and collaboration are the qualities we value in a Board member.  Elections will be held as soon as the slate of candidates has been confirmed.

 

Board Election Process

This page will serve as a single, easily accessible resource for members throughout the election process. Currently it summarizes what has already been established, identifies areas still being finalized, and will be regularly updated as information becomes available. 

 

Election Committee

The Election Committee consists of Dr. Ellyce Di Paola (Chair) and Clara Favale (member).

The committee's responsibilities include:

  • Selecting and implementing a secure online voting platform
  • Establishing election procedures and guidelines
  • Verifying candidate eligibility
  • Overseeing the election process
  • Documenting procedures to create a consistent framework for future Board elections

 

Election Overview

The following elements of the election process have already been established:

  • Board Seats: Six (6) Board positions are open during this election.
  • Term Length: Directors will serve three-year terms.
  • Voting Eligibility: Voting is a benefit of membership for RCST© and Teacher Members who are in good standing, including current dues and renewal requirements as of July 31, 2026.
  • Voting Platform: The Election Committee is currently evaluating secure online voting platforms. Members will be notified once a platform has been selected.
  • Voting Period: Voting will remain open for several days to allow members adequate time to participate.

 

Election Timeline

The following dates represent our current anticipated timeline. Because this is the Association's first election using a new online voting platform, these dates are aspirational and may be adjusted if additional time is needed to implement and test the voting system. Any changes will be communicated promptly to the membership.

Anticipated Timeline

  • July 15 – Board nominations close
  • July 24 – Candidate application materials due
  • July 25 – Candidate eligibility verification completed
  • By August 1 – Candidate biographies, photographs, and Letters of Intent posted for member review
  • Prior to voting period – Candidate information distributed to the membership by email
  • On or before August 15 – Voting period opens
  • Following close of voting – Election results verified and announced
  • September 1 (anticipated) – New Board terms begin

 

How to Participate

Members will be able to access election information through the following resources:

  • Board Nomination / Self-Nomination Form: Board Nomination Form
  • Nominees are asked to submit a bio (350 max), a photo and a Letter of Intent.
  • Board Member Expectations: Board Member Expectations
  • Election Timeline and Updates: (more information to come)
  • Online Voting Platform: (to be added once selected)

For questions regarding membership status, voting eligibility, or candidate verification, please contact Pam Hower, BCTA/NA Administrator

For general election questions, Pam is also your primary point of contact.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there six Board seats available?

Six (6) Board positions are open during this election. Originally, five seats were anticipated; however, an additional Board member is retiring.

To provide continuity during this transition and simplify implementation of the new election process, the three continuing Board members—Ilene Antelman, Clara Cunningham, and Hiraman Reynolds—will complete their current terms, which expire in September 2028, and are therefore not standing for election at this time.

What does candidate verification involve?

Candidate verification confirms that each candidate has:

  • Submitted all required application materials
  • Current RCST© in good standing
  • Up-to-date with membership dues and renewal requirements

Which online voting platform will be used?

The Election Committee is currently evaluating two secure online voting platforms. The selected platform will be announced as soon as the review process is complete.

 

A Final Word

This election represents an important milestone for our Association.

As we establish a process that will serve the Association for years to come, we are committed to conducting an election that is transparent, fair, secure, and accessible to all eligible members.

We also recognize that, because this process is being developed for the first time in many years, some details will continue to evolve. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we finalize those remaining pieces. Our commitment is to communicate updates promptly and to provide members with clear information every step of the way.

Thank you for your engagement, thoughtful questions, and ongoing support of BCTA/NA.

With appreciation,

The Board of Directors
Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association of North America

 

Updated Jul 11/2026