Resource NCSL Foundation Board of Directors 2025 Winter Meeting

All NCSL Executive Committee, LSCC and NCSL Foundation meetings take place at the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City unless otherwise noted.

Jan. 18, 2025 | 1:30-3 p.m. | Salt Lake AB | Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City

1. Welcome and introductions from Speaker Pro Tempore Brian Patrick Kennedy, NCSL Foundation president.
2. Approval of August 2024 Foundation Board Meeting minutes (board action required).
3. Report from Speaker Pro Tempore Brian Patrick Kennedy, NCSL Foundation president.
4. Report from NCSL CEO Tim Storey.
5. Report on FY 2024 audit from Sabrina Lewellen, Foundation secretary/treasurer, NCSL CFO Alex Alavi, and Lisa Meacham, Plante Moran (board action required).
6. Progress report on FY 2025 awards and FY 2024 supplemental awards, led by Kennedy.
7. Report from NCSL Foundation Vice President Christine Csizmadia.
8. Report on NCSL Legislative Summit and 50th anniversary by Victor Vialpando-Nuñez, NCSL COO.
9. Report on NCSL Fiscal Institute by Arturo Pérez, NCSL vice president of state services.
10. Closing remarks and other business from Kennedy and Diana Noel, NCSL chief development officer.

As we welcome the new year and the first meeting of the NCSL Foundation board, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to lead this remarkable group. Our collective efforts over the past year have resulted in significant achievements, including strong revenue growth, increased sponsorship engagement, impactful outreach activities, and prudent management of operating expenses. This year, we will build upon that success and continue a path of growth. This report offers a snapshot of accomplishments and highlights of our activities since the 2024 Legislative Summit in Louisville and a preview of the year ahead.

 FY 2025 Revenue

The NCSL Foundation Board of Directors approved an unrestricted fundraising goal of $5 million for fiscal year 2025. As of Dec. 20, 2024, the Foundation has raised $1,375,000 in unrestricted giving. 

I am pleased to report that we have 35 Capitol Circle level sponsors, with Dominion upgrading from the Silver level and DeleteMe joining since our meeting in Louisville. Eli Lilly, Adobe and Las Vegas Sands also joined the Foundation at the Platinum level. Combining Capitol Circle sponsors with our 67 Platinum-level sponsors, we have a total of 102 top sponsors. A complete list of NCSL Foundation sponsors can be found starting on page 17. 

 FY 2025 Operating Expenses

I am delighted to report that the Foundation is successfully managing its finances for FY 2025, adhering closely to the approved operating budget of $1,613,445 and the allocated $3.4 million for awards to NCSL. The Foundation closed out the FY 2024 fiscal year within the operating budget.  

Foundation Outreach and Activities

This year is off to a great start for our dynamic outreach efforts and other activities. Our initiatives are bolstering our financial stability and strengthening our engagement with legislators, legislative staff and private sector partners. Below is a summary of our key activities thus far this fiscal year: 

• New Bylaws, New Vice President-Elect: The NCSL Executive Committee approved the Foundations bylaws on Aug. 4, 2024. This was a major overhaul which included the creation of a new officer position of vice president-elect. The nominating committee and Foundation officers worked meticulously throughout the fall to create and administer the first-ever election process for that position. This new process resulted in the election of Ethan Wilson and an active and engaging process among the board. I am deeply appreciative of the engagement from the candidates and board members regarding the implementation of the new bylaws and commitment to NCSL.   
• NCSL Post-Election Forum: Held in Washington, D.C., this event provided analysis and discussion of the state legislative elections and NCSL’s forecast of 2025 issues facing state legislatures. The event included top-level legislative leaders who shared their insights on their own races and any impacts of the federal election in their states and districts. The Foundation was proud to host this event and honored to have over 100 Foundation sponsors in attendance.  
• State Government Affairs Council Leader’s Policy Conference: The annual Leader’s Policy Conference, attended by NCSL leadership, including me, along with other NCSL officers and NCSL staff, provided an invaluable platform to gain insights into the challenges shaping state policy landscapes. The key themes of innovation, collaboration and inclusivity were central to the conference, with discussions ranging from the complexities of health equity and the evolving digital privacy landscape to the strategic implications of artificial intelligence for governance. The meeting provided an opportunity to connect with NCSL Foundation sponsors, allowing for productive conversations and reinforcing partnerships ahead of the holiday season. 

As we begin a new calendar year and continue the work we started in FY 2024, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to each of you for your continued dedication and support. Looking ahead, I am confident that we will continue to build upon the strong foundation we have built to propel us toward even greater success and innovation. I look forward to seeing you again at our next meeting on Aug. 4 at the NCSL Legislative Summit and the culmination of our 50th anniversary celebration.

As we embark on an exciting new year, I want to express my gratitude for your continued support and dedication to NCSL and the NCSL Foundation. Your commitment and leadership are key to the Foundation’s ability to support NCSL’s work in providing exceptional programs and services to its members. I look forward to the year ahead and the opportunities it brings to deepen our partnerships and advance NCSL’s mission.

This year begins with the welcoming of Ethan Wilson as the new vice president-elect of the Foundation board. His insight will be invaluable as we continue to build on our successes. I am confident that his contributions will further strengthen the work we do together.

Looking ahead, we have a dynamic lineup of events and initiatives planned for 2025. These include the upcoming NCSL CEO Luncheon that I will be proud to host again at the NEI office in Washington, D.C. Look out for additional details in the coming weeks. I encourage you to plan on attending, and also to review the Foundation’s calendar of events on page 16 and prioritize these important opportunities to collaborate with NCSL members and other Foundation sponsors.

Thank you for your dedication and commitment as we start this promising new year. I am inspired by the collective passion and vision of this group and excited about the impact we will achieve together in 2025.

Here’s to a successful year ahead!

Please contact the NCSL Foundation staff with any questions about upcoming events.

The NCSL Foundation awarded $3.4 million across 22 grants to NCSL for fiscal year 2025, covering the period from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025. These grants provide significant additional capacity for NCSL to serve its members and mission. Progress reports for these are below.

FISCAL INSTITUTE

Award: $180,000

Description: This NCSL Foundation award provides legislative stipends and general meeting support to the Fiscal Institute, which includes the Fiscal Institute Symposium and the Task Force on State and Local Taxes (SALT). The symposium is an annual convening of state budget and tax committee chairs and SALT members. It offers a high-level overview of state fiscal issues and covers a broad range of topics. SALT members meet two additional times during the year to dive deeper into specific tax issues.

Progress Report: The Fiscal Institute Symposium is an annual convening of state budget and tax committee chairs. The 2024 symposium for fiscal leaders occurred in Nashville, Tenn., on Nov. 13-15. The meeting was a big success and drew 70 legislators and legislative fiscal staff from 29 different states. The NCSL Foundation award provided general meeting support and legislative stipends for the Symposium.

LEGISLATIVE STAFF MANAGEMENT INSTITUTE

Award: $100,000

Description: Since 1990, the Foundation has supported the operation of the annual Legislative Staff Management Institute (LSMI), the nation’s premier program for developing and enhancing management and leadership skills for America’s leading legislative staffers. The Foundation’s assistance enables NCSL to discount the tuition for senior legislative staff attending this executive management program. The FY 2025 award supports the 2024 LSMI program, held in July 2024 in Denver.

Progress Report: The 2024 program was held in Denver, on July 11-18, 2024. Forty-three legislative staff representing 25 states were accepted into and attended the eight- day residential program led by staff from NCSL’s Legislative Training Institute as well as faculty from a wide range of academic institutions. The program provided educational content and experiences that were long-lasting and transferable to any legislative career path, from the first year on the job to the top of the leadership ladder. The LSMI philosophy focuses on self and social awareness and those themes were carried throughout the program. The week started with modules and experiences to stimulate personal introspection, then moved to sessions that highlighted group dynamics and the challenges of managing those dynamics in the complex world of the legislature. This Foundation award enabled NCSL to discount tuition for senior legislative staff attending this executive management program.

LEGISLATIVE STAFF PROGRAMS

Award: $125,000

Description: NCSL’s Legislative Staff Services Program provides strategic, programmatic and administrative support to the nine professional staff associations of NCSL. It carries out the priorities and projects for the NCSL staff chair and the Legislative Staff Coordinating Committee (LSCC) and delivers many of the professional development programs designed specifically for legislative staff. This award supports NCSL staff time in the development, coordination and execution of key professional development programs for legislative staff. These programs include the annual Legislative Staff Management Institute (LSMI), professional development and networking for staff directors and chiefs of staff, the Legislative Staff Institutional Essentials program designed for staff new to the legislative profession, and NCSL Base Camp, an online experience designed primarily for legislative staff.

Progress Report: This award supported the Legislative Staff Exchange program for the nine professional staff associations, support and programming for professional staff association professional development seminars in fall 2024, the LSIE program and successful programming at the 2024 Legislative Summit for YNP and senior staff directors. Additionally, it provided funding for the planning and support for three key events at the Legislative Summit—the Legislative Staff University, Legislative Staff Breakfast and the Salute to Legislative Staff—as well as the fall LSCC meeting. Upcoming events in spring 2025 include Legislative Staff Week, continued senior staff director programming and planning for Summit sessions, and fall 2025 professional development seminars. Legislative Staff Services provides ongoing support for the staff chair and his goals, LSCC meeting planning and LSCC work groups and subcommittees.

QUAD CAUCUS AND WOMEN’S LEGISLATIVE NETWORK

Award: $185,000

Description: NCSL provides staff support to the Women’s Legislative Network and the Quad Caucus. The Quad Caucus includes the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL), the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators (NHCSL), the National Asian Pacific American Caucus of State Legislators (NAPACSL), and the National Caucus of Native American State Legislators (NCNASL). The Quad Caucus represents approximately 1,300 legislators of color, or 20% of NCSL’s members. Support to both groups continues to offer a unique opportunity to strengthen NCSL’s virtual programs, policy research, and response to increasingly diverse legislatures. The award supports NCSL staff time and general operating support to continue building the network and relationships among the groups.

Progress Report: The award supported the work of the Women’s Legislative Network and the Quad Caucus. NCSL staff continuously build relationships and partnerships for the WLN and the Quad Caucus, which are essential for creating successful programs that respond to members’ needs. The Women’s Legislative Network track at the 2024 Legislative Summit included a well-attended professional development luncheon on building balance that featured Associate Dean of Well-Being Lisa Williams, from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine. Additionally, policy roundtables offered women legislators a unique opportunity to dive into specific policy topics in groups of 20 during the Legislative Summit, and more than 150 Quad Caucus members attended the inaugural Legislative Summit reception at the Muhammad Ali Center. The award supported a strategy-building lunch among Quad Caucus leaders and staff to discuss how to get involved with potential partner organizations. All four national caucuses held their annual meetings between August and December. In December 2024, Quad Caucus leaders participated in a joint cardiovascular disease public service announcement. 

YOUNG AND NEW PROFESSIONALS

Award: $13,200

Description: This award supports the Young and New Professionals (YNP) ancillary group, comprised of legislators and legislative staff who are either 35 years of age or younger, or with five years or less of legislative experience. The YNP mission is to engage, educate and support the state legislative leaders of tomorrow through targeted professional development, networking opportunities and recognition.

 Progress Report: The grant allowed NCSL to continue fostering the YNP brand and reputation among young and new legislative professionals nationwide. The award supported a session titled “What Telling Stories Means for Great Policymaking” at the 2024 NCSL Legislative Summit. Another portion of the award supplemented a sponsorship of the YNP networking reception in Louisville’s historic entertainment district, which drew more than 250 members. Upcoming YNP events include a professional development webinar series during the spring of 2025 and the 2025 NCSL Summit networking session/reception.

 SENIOR STAFF DIRECTORS

Award: $71,500

Description: This award is intended for programming aimed at legislative staff directors, who are the top staff decision-makers and leaders in either a centralized agency or legislative chamber. It provides specialized professional development and networking opportunities, as well as in-person engagement events, such as the invite-only staff director luncheon at the Legislative Summit and a planned in-person experiential program.

Progress Report: Thus far in FY 25, this award has been used to host an invitational luncheon for 40 senior staff directors from across the country at the Legislative Summit. Speaker John Trybus gave a presentation for the group on storytelling in the professional world.  Upcoming events include an online networking session in December and planning for a two-and-a-half-day in-person event to be held in Alexandria, Va., in May 2025. This in-person event will be held with the George Washington Leadership Institute and supported by staff from both Legislative Staff Services and the Legislative Training Institute, who will act as facilitators.

LEGISLATIVE STAFF EXCHANGE

Award: $16,600

Description: This grant supports the new legislative staff exchange program. It provides funds to the nine staff associations to administer an exchange program among legislative staff in different states. Each association has developed a plan for how their specific program is administered and guidelines for its usage.

Progress Report: This award continues to support the legislative staff exchange program. Participants are chosen through a selection process, and the funds reimburse them for travel expenses to visit another state chamber. This relatively new program has been extremely well received. A NALFO officer had this to say: “Since we initiated the program, we have received positive feedback from both host states and staff participants. The host states have allowed the exchange staff to participate in what they do during their visit, rather than just watch, as well as exchanging ideas and concepts unique to their own states. The ‘hands on’ approach has been viewed by most of the exchange staff as being the most rewarding and beneficial part of their experience.”

PROGRAM FOR LEGISLATIVE LEADERS

Award: $350,000

Description: This award supports the NCSL Leaders’ Center, which provides legislative leaders with specialized products and services including high-caliber training, timely public policy briefings, and innovative ideas to effectively lead legislative chambers. Specifically, the award supports two symposiums, one leadership experience, outreach to leaders, and the development and delivery of programs for targeted groups of leaders.

Progress Report: This award supports the NCSL Leaders’ Center to convene legislative leaders for biannual symposiums, executive leadership training and emerging leadership programs. The first symposium was held in December in Austin, Texas, welcoming 38 legislative leaders and many Foundation members to discuss the concept of realistic civil discourse in the political realm from a leadership perspective. Participants visited the Texas Capitol and the LBJ Presidential Library, and heard from civility scholars and experts on how realistic civility can manifest in state legislatures. Most importantly, leaders had ample time to network and engage in deep conversations with each other on the intricacies of starting session with a new caucus post-election. The second symposium will take place in June 2025 in Lake Tahoe, Calif., with a focus on political strategy.

NEW LEGISLATOR PROGRAMMING

Award: $132,000

Description: This award engages newly elected first-year legislators, identified by their leadership as up and coming. In partnership with NCSL’s Legislative Training Institute, the programming provides tools and information necessary for first-year legislators to be successful in their positions, while introducing them to all that NCSL has to offer throughout their legislative careers.

Progress Report: This award supports programming for new legislators in the form of the Avoiding the Sophomore Slump conference. Legislators with one session under their belts are selected by leadership to attend this exclusive and curated educational program on how to be more effective in their sophomore year. The program will take place in November 2025 in Philadelphia. Classroom time consists of programming including Using Rules and Tools, Communications Trends, Constituent Service and Legislative Staff, Playing the Infinite Game and much more. All NCSL leadership programs focus on experiential learning and Philly provides a historical playground with visits to Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and other iconic stops. Roughly 40 new lawmakers will have the opportunity to participate.

LEGISLATOR AND LEGISLATIVE STAFF TRAINING

Award: $775,000

Description: This award supports the operations of NCSL’s Legislative Training Institute to better train NCSL members. By providing more specialized training to legislators and staff, the Training Institute equips them to become better at their jobs and operating the legislative institution. NCSL will use the award to support the staff who serve as trainers and facilitators and deliver products in-person and virtually. The trainers also develop ongoing training programs and support NCSL staff to improve their presentation skills.

Progress Report: This award supported the NCSL Legislative Training Institute's delivery of 223 trainings to nearly 11,000 members over the past year. The Legislative Training Institute supports NCSL’s leaders' programs (Normandy, Greece, Emerging, New Leaders), legislative staff programs (LSMI, staff association professional development) and NCSL’s internal professional development program. The award also funds the development of new training programs, modules and materials, including travel costs to deliver training in the states and at NCSL events. The Legislative Training Institute continues to grow, expanding its services into five new states in 2024.

INTERNATIONAL and LEADERS PROGRAM SUPPORT

Award: $100,000

Description: This grant will fund a support position for the NCSL Leaders’ Center and Institute for International Cooperation. Responsibilities in both these programs have grown substantially, requiring additional capacity to meet NCSL members' needs. The position will serve as a senior coordinator of services, support the CEO, and provide additional capacity for the team members.

Progress Report: The additional staff supported by this award has significantly enhanced NCSL’s ability to serve its members by expanding the capacity of both the Leaders’ Center and the Institute for International Cooperation. The Leaders’ Center has increased its outreach to legislative leaders, enabling deeper engagement and the creation of innovative services tailored to meet their evolving needs. This enhanced capacity has also supported the production of more in-depth, analytical publications on leadership for NCSL’s website and magazine, strengthening resources for state legislators. Similarly, the Institute for International Cooperation has leveraged this support to successfully plan and execute high-impact events, including the Partnership of Parliaments (PoP) exchange visit in Atlanta and a leadership-focused program at Stanford University. The additional administrative capacity has streamlined event logistics and strengthened the Institute’s ability to foster global legislative collaboration. By bolstering both programs, this award is helping NCSL deliver more robust, innovative services to its members while advancing its mission to connect leaders and promote international cooperation.

CENTER FOR LEGISLATIVE STRENGTHENING

Award: $190,000

Description: The Center for Legislative Strengthening (CLS) is NCSL’s hub for consulting, projects, training and research in service of the legislative institution. The award provides CLS with continued staff capacity to provide legislatures with analysis and expertise on enduring and emerging issues impacting legislative operations, legislative processes, legislator pay and demographics, human resources issues and the separation of powers.

Progress Report: Thus far in FY 25, CLS assisted several legislatures, including presentations to legislative staff in Colorado on legislative use of artificial intelligence. In South Carolina, staff provided a national perspective on legislature classification and a session on legislative rules/parliamentary procedure at the Newly Elected Officials Convening for the National Association of Latino Elected Officials (NALEO). CLS staff provided consulting services to four legislatures on job classification and compensation; a market compensation update; a legislator compensation comparison; and on collective bargaining. CLS also provided sessions on legislative AI, the legislative process and on legislative rules at several staff professional development seminars during the fall. The team answered 115 information requests since July 2024. CLS designed sessions at the 2024 NCSL Legislative Summit on legislative use of AI, administrative rules, civility, aided the Mason’s Manual Commission’s session, and offered “The Debating Game,” a friendly competition on parliamentary procedure. CLS featured sessions on AI, civility and a reflection of state legislatures over the past five decades at the 2024 NCSL Base Camp. The 2025 session calendar is available at ncsl.org, along with the findings from the Legislative Use of Artificial Intelligence 2024 Survey.   

RESEARCH DATABASES

Award: $210,000

Description: This award provides NCSL staff with access to LexisNexis State Net, Lexis+, Westlaw and Quorum. These research databases include the ability for customized searches of state bills, laws, regulations, and related information from every state, territory, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Congress. These tools allow NCSL staff to analyze policies, identify trends, and support responses to research requests from members, Foundation sponsors, media and others. Additionally, they support testimony to legislative committees, reports, briefs, webpages and other media for members. They also support NCSL’s publicly available legislative databases that track, categorize and analyze legislation on various topics as well as the Bill Information Service (BIS), powered by State Net, which is NCSL’s bill-tracking tool for members.

Progress Report: With these research tools, NCSL staff answered more than 900 research requests in this reporting period. With this award, NCSL continued to provide staff access to LexisNexis State Net, Lexis+, Westlaw, Quorum and Politico Pro. In the fall, NCSL also transitioned to a new tool for statutes: LexisNexis Code Navigator (replacing Lexis+). This provided greater access for NCSL staff and better leveraged funds. In November, State Net and Code Navigator staff provided two days of in-person trainings attended by more than 60 NCSL staff. Additionally, this award supports the Bill Information Service (BIS) powered by State Net, which is NCSL’s bill tracking tool for members. NCSL and State Net staff provided BIS training at the Legislative Summit and to legislative staff offices, reaching 140 legislators and staff in person and 65 virtually. 

GRANT IDENTIFICATION AND SUPPORT

Award: $150,000

Description: This award boosts staffing and innovation in the state policy and research area to support fundraising through grants and contracts. Fundraising sustains more than 90 NCSL staff devoted to providing timely, unbiased, quality research and analysis to legislators and legislative staff, which is among NCSL members’ most valued services.

Progress Report: From July to September, the grants manager assisted with several large federal proposals totaling over $1 million annually as well as other philanthropic proposals. NCSL experienced a transition in personnel for this function in the fall, and the new grants manager started on Jan. 6. This position will support current grant management and secure new and ongoing fundraising opportunities for the division and across the conference. Strengthening the division with new grant opportunities, continuing high quality, bipartisan research, and maintaining current funding streams remain top priorities for NCSL.

TASK FORCE AND STANDING COMMITTEE ADMINISTRATION

Award: $50,000

Description: This award provides staff capacity support to NCSL Executive Committee task forces and the NCSL standing committees. Through this work, NCSL supports 25-30 meetings and enhances engagement with task force and standing committee members.

Progress Report: The award funds a position that supports and enhances the work of the seven NCSL Executive Committee task forces and the 11 NCSL standing committees. Since July 1, 2024, this position has supported 18 meetings, 10 committee business meetings, and has begun work on two in-person task force meetings scheduled for January and February 2025. This position has allowed NCSL to centralize, standardize and enhance member communication to these groups, including the development of outreach materials to welcome new task force and committee members who will be appointed in 2025. In addition, the staffer is working to improve communication with Foundation partners who sponsor task forces.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND FLY-IN SUPPORT

Award: $27,500

Description: This award strengthens NCSL’s ability to provide timely, essential in-person member services by providing resources for technical assistance in the states and connections with congressional delegations. NCSL technical assistance includes in-state committee testimony and presentations—high-demand services that help legislators and legislative staff engage with NCSL policy experts on pressing policy matters in real time. Congressional fly-ins allow state legislators to engage and build relationships with their congressional counterparts, amplifying the state legislative perspective in the nation’s capital.

Progress Report: During this reporting period, this award supported in-state testimony related to elections. NCSL anticipates additional technical assistance and fly-ins in 2025.

STANDING COMMITTEE OFFICER STIPENDS

Award: $28,200

Description: This award will allow NCSL to provide stipends to the legislator and legislative staff co-chairs of NCSL standing committees to cover some of the expenses associated with attending the 2024 Legislative Summit. NCSL recently expanded the number of its standing committees from eight to 11 and is focused on improved outreach and engagement with committee officers and members.

Progress Report: Funds supported stipends for the legislator and staff co-chairs of the 11 NCSL standing committees to attend the 2024 Legislative Summit in Louisville, Ky.  The legislator co-chairs preside over the business meetings of the standing committees.

LEGISLATOR AND LEGISLATIVE STAFF ENGAGEMENT

Award: $220,000

Description: Engaging state legislators and legislative staff is critical to NCSL’s mission. This funding supports NCSL state liaison travel to state capitols for policy assistance, professional development training and relationship-building; welcoming newly elected legislators; producing dedicated content for legislative staff; designing, printing and mailing the NCSL calendar and other materials; and developing new content and strategies for engaging members. The funding is also used to support leader-directed stipends for legislator travel to the Legislative Summit.

Progress Report: This award supported the comprehensive plan to welcome more than 1,100 new legislators elected in November 2024. Email messages had open rates as high as 96% and directed readers to a new legislator webpage with welcome videos from NCSL officers, policy resources, information about NCSL’s 50th anniversary and a message from state liaisons. Outreach by the state liaisons and NCSL state coordinators complemented this campaign. NCSL debuted state-specific web addresses to allow legislators and staff to quickly connect with state liaisons (example: ncsl.org/utah). NCSL offered a series of virtual new member orientation trainings throughout December which were well attended and had high engagement among participants. New legislators received a welcome package in January. State liaisons have maintained regular contact with legislators and staff in their states since July 2024, promoting NCSL events, policy resources and training opportunities, and welcoming new legislators. State liaisons connected with attendees from their states at the Meet and Greet event during the Legislative Summit. State liaisons will visit state capitols during the 2025 legislative sessions and the support from the NCSL Foundation will allow them to host legislators and legislative staff for gatherings and briefings celebrating NCSL’s 50th anniversary. This award allowed NCSL to offer legislator stipends to travel to the Legislative Summit in Louisville as directed by presiding leaders. More than 75 legislators received support to offset the travel costs of attending the meeting.

“OUR AMERICAN STATES” PODCAST

Award: $25,000

Description: This award provides funding for NCSL’s “Our American States” podcast. The podcast serves as an additional communications channel to reach NCSL members and the broader public, with each episode having the potential to reach more than 1,700 listeners. The Foundation award encompasses the expenses associated with producing, hosting, editing and distributing the podcast.

Progress Report: The “OAS” podcast typically focuses on public policy topics with bipartisan conversations with legislators, key government officials and policy experts. During this period, 12 podcasts were broadcast on topics including nuclear energy, data centers, AI, weight-loss drugs and higher education. A special 50th-anniversary podcast series kicked off in 2024 and will continue in 2025. The first episode in the series focused on the history of legislatures, particularly the last 50 years, and was released at the start of the Legislative Summit in Louisville. The second episode came out in October and tells the story of how the legislative institution was shaped in the U.S., both historically and in recent decades. NCSL podcasts continue to have a loyal and strong following with a potential audience of more than 1,700 listeners per episode.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Award: $275,000

Description: This award supports professional development opportunities for NCSL staff, including access to workshops, seminars, conferences and other learning opportunities. By investing in professional development opportunities, NCSL fosters a culture of growth and innovation, resulting in increased efficiency, productivity, and capability to address emerging challenges. NCSL strives to invest more resources in opportunities for staff. Staff continually prioritize professional development opportunities among the most important actions the organization can take to support and value them.

Progress Report: Each program was empowered with a dedicated budget to transform their teams’ professional growth through bold and innovative initiatives. These investments unlocked a world of opportunities: from energizing new manager cohort training and immersive retreats to dynamic leadership seminars and prestigious conferences. Teams dived into specialized policy workshops, organization-wide learning experiences, hands-on skill-building sessions, and intensive one-day courses. The funds also opened doors to professional organization memberships and transformative site visits to state capitols—sparking fresh ideas, fostering deeper insights into the legislative process, and igniting innovation at every turn.

CHALLENGE AND INNOVATION PROGRAMS

Award: $131,000

Description: For more than a decade, the Foundation has awarded funds designed to motivate and inspire NCSL staff to create new initiatives to serve legislators and legislative staff. Through a competitive process, NCSL staff submit ideas for smaller grants. Microgrants are selected for seed projects that allow NCSL staff to complete critical work that might not have resources available and to explore new areas that could lead to expanded projects. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $20,000. NCSL staff are strongly encouraged to think creatively and strategically about how to invest these small awards so that they might lead to discoveries about new products and services to meet the needs of NCSL’s members.

Progress Report: Through a competitive process, NCSL staff pitch innovative ideas for smaller grants directly to the chief executive officer. These microgrants are awarded to jumpstart seed projects that address critical needs lacking traditional funding and explore fresh opportunities with the potential to grow into larger initiatives. These small but impactful awards are designed to spark discoveries, paving the way for new products and services that enhance NCSL’s support for its members.

NCSL BASE CAMP

Award: $45,000

Description: This award will support the fifth iteration of NCSL Base Camp, to be held in October 2024. NCSL Base Camp is a two-day virtual training experience designed primarily for legislative staff. In 2023, a record 1,236 people registered for NCSL Base Camp, reflecting participants from all 50 states and several territories. Foundation funding for this event will cover the cost of the production platform.

Progress Report: NCSL Base Camp 2024 was held Oct. 29-30, with more than 2,018 people attending over 30 sessions during the two-day online event, setting a new record since the program’s inception in 2020. The event showcased an exciting lineup of sessions, including insights into the 2024 election, the transformative role of artificial intelligence in legislative work, strategic thinking and decision-making strategies, advancements in education, and fostering civility in an era of political division.

The NCSL Foundation awarded $600,000 across nine grants to NCSL in supplemental awards for fiscal year 2024. Progress reports for these are below.

LEGISLATIVE STAFF WEEK

Award: $25,000

Description: This award will support programming and outreach efforts during NCSL’s Legislative Staff Week, an annual celebration of the more than 33,000 legislative staff and the critical work they do to serve the legislatures in the U.S. states and territories. Held each May, it features professional development for staff through webinars and podcasts and includes a shoutout competition with prizes awarded in daily drawings and to the top-participating states.

Progress Report: This award supports NCSL’s programming and outreach efforts for the 2025 Legislative Staff Week, which is intended to celebrate and provide professional development for legislative staff in the 50 states and territories. Legislative Staff Week is scheduled to align with Public Service Recognition Week (May 5-9, 2025). NCSL staffers have created a program outline for the 2025 Legislative Staff Week and developed a list of potential webinar speakers. The first planning meeting was convened in early December between representatives of NCSL’s Legislative Staff Services and Outreach programs and the LSCC Legislative Institution Subcommittee chairs. Planning will also involve the Information Technology, Social Media, E-Learning and Outreach Subcommittee and will begin in earnest in early 2025.

CHIEFS OF STAFF MEETING

Award: $20,000

Description: The Leaders’ Center and the Legislative Staff Services department will partner to provide specialized services and training to partisan staffers serving the top legislative leaders in each chamber in the role of chief of staff (or equivalent position). Most funds will be used to pay upfront costs associated with an in-person professional development conference for chiefs of staff in the fall of 2025. The conference will focus on building meaningful relationships between chiefs and equipping them with practical skills to better serve their bosses, subordinates, and the legislative institution in their home state.

Progress Report: No funds have been spent from this grant yet. However, planning is well underway for the third semi-annual Leadership Chiefs of Staff Conference in Nashville, Tenn., to be held Oct. 16-18, 2025. This conference will bring together chiefs of staff serving the top leaders/presiding officers. We anticipate 25-30 chiefs will participate in tailored professional development, experiential learning, and opportunities to network with their peers. The profile of the Leadership Chiefs Conference has continued to grow and is gaining a reputation amongst leadership chiefs of staff. Many attendees have come to multiple conferences with excitement for each year’s program.

NEW LEADERS PROGRAMMING AND OUTREACH

Award: $70,000

Description: This award allows NCSL to engage newly elevated top leaders (speakers and Senate presidents) to support their influential roles within the legislature. The NCSL Leader’s Center will provide targeted and unique training and networking opportunities.

Progress Report: This award supports special services offered to new presiding officers. The bulk of the award will go toward an educational program currently planned for mid-June 2025 in conjunction with the Lake Tahoe Leaders Symposium. New presiding officers will be invited to partake in educational sessions about their legacy, how to communicate and operate with their personalities and have ample time to network with other new leaders.

INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGES

Award: $60,000

Description: This award supports NCSL’s ongoing work to connect state legislatures with peer organizations around the world. It funds NCSL’s collaboration with Germany’s Partnership of Parliaments (PoP) and other international legislative organizations. In FY 2025, the award will support the hosting of PoP in Georgia in November 2024, enable legislator participation in international conferences such as Brazil’s UNALE and India’s National Legislator Conference, and further the integration of NCSL’s international affiliate members. These efforts will strengthen global legislative exchanges, foster international cooperation, and enhance the professional development of state legislators through exposure to diverse legislative practices.

Progress Report: This award has supported NCSL’s efforts to connect state legislatures with peer organizations worldwide, fostering international collaboration and enhancing professional development. A major accomplishment funded by this grant was the successful hosting of Germany’s Partnership of Parliaments (PoP) delegation in Atlanta in November 2024. The exchange included a visit to the Georgia State Capitol, a briefing at the Carter Center, and meetings with local officials and civic organizations. In addition to the PoP exchange, this award supported NCSL staff in executing an energy study tour of Germany in coordination with the German Embassy, further strengthening NCSL’s relationship with Germany. The award also facilitated NCSL’s renewed engagement with the Parliamentary Confederation of the Americas (COPA). Through the grant’s support, two NCSL officers attended COPA’s first in-person meeting since the COVID-19 pandemic, reinforcing ties with legislative peers across the Americas. Looking ahead, this award will continue to support international outreach in early 2025, including participation in conferences such as Brazil’s UNALE and India’s National Legislator Conference. These efforts will advance NCSL’s mission to connect state legislators with global counterparts and foster meaningful legislative exchanges.

LEADERS FEDERALISM PROJECT

Award: $50,000

Description: This award will fund NCSL’s support of a bipartisan effort led by more than 20 top legislative leaders. The goal is to convene all top leaders from the states, territories and the District of Columbia to discuss the evolving nature of federalism. The aim is to identify common ground among leaders on the current state of the relationship between states and the federal government. The leaders will explore what is working and what is not working with federalism today. NCSL's deep history of working on this issue will inform the conversations. Over the next 12 months, NCSL will support roundtables with leaders to develop the processes and procedures for a convening of all 106 top leaders in late 2025.

Progress Report: This award supports an effort to bring top leaders together to discuss the importance of states in the federalist system. The program planned for late 2025 will support a conference for all speakers/Senate presidents to gather and discuss important policy topics that typically fall within the federal jurisdiction but may not have any action currently, so decisions are falling to the states. The conference will allow state leadership to determine next steps for states and how they would advise in working with the new administration and Congress.

NCSL 50TH ANNIVERSARY COMMEMORATION

Award: $220,000

Description: The National Conference of State Legislatures first convened in 1975 when three organizations merged to form the powerhouse that today is NCSL. The organization’s 50th anniversary is an opportunity to not only reflect on the extraordinary historic work of legislatures, but to tell the story of the critical role that the first branch continues to play in fulfilling the great American experiment. Through its 50th anniversary, NCSL will tell the story of how state legislatures drive representative democracy, civility and innovation, and how NCSL is the indispensable partner in achieving all three. This award supports ongoing work to commemorate the anniversary, including the production of videos, podcasts, written materials and commemorative items. The award also supports the culmination of the project to photograph every state capitol and legislative building, which will be documented in a book to be published concurrent with the 2025 Legislative Summit.

Progress Report: NCSL launched its commemoration of its 50th anniversary at the opening general session of the 2024 Legislative Summit. This month, January 2025, marks our official 50th birthday. NCSL launched www.ncsl.org/50 as a hub for all 50th anniversary-related content, which includes a special video, podcast series, interactive timeline, “Profiles in Service” series of staff profiles and more. This month, we also published a special 50th anniversary edition of State Legislatures magazine, which is being mailed out to all legislatures and other supporters. The 50th anniversary will feature prominently at the 2025 Legislative Summit in Boston, including through each of our general sessions. At the Summit, we will also release a coffee table-style book featuring NCSL-shot photography of all state capitols.

MARKETING SUPPORT

Award: $45,000

Description: This award will support the NCSL marketing team’s work to better understand and engage its members. The funding will be used to develop a conference-wide survey to benchmark NCSL’s effectiveness at engaging and supporting its members. It will also provide temporary contractor support for NCSL’s more than 40 policy newsletters.

Progress Report: This award supports the NCSL marketing team’s work to better understand and engage its members. The funding was used to develop a conference-wide survey to benchmark NCSL’s effectiveness at engaging and supporting its members, which will be deployed in Q1 2025. It also supported a temporary contractor who worked with NCSL staff to publish 25 newsletters for over 22,000 recipients in 2024.

PROGRAM INTERNS

Award: $90,000

Description: This award will support eight hourly interns for a semester at NCSL. Interns work across program areas to provide support to members while learning about the legislative institution. NCSL interns conduct research, write articles and perform a variety of other tasks central to NCSL’s mission.

Progress Report: NCSL selects interns through a competitive application process to support various programs within the organization each semester. In the 2024 calendar year, 12 interns joined NCSL, contributing to the Children and Families Program, Communications Division, Information Technology Department, Employment, Labor and Retirement Program, Environment, Energy and Transportation Program, State-Federal Affairs, Education Program, and the Women’s Legislative Network. This internship offers participants valuable opportunities to build a professional network, deepen their understanding of the legislative process, and apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings.

EMPLOYEE ONBOARDING

Award: $20,000

Description: The NCSL Human Resources Department will use this award to enlist a consultant’s support to enhance the organization’s employee onboarding program. This will include training for hiring managers to provide them with the necessary skills to deliver organized, relevant and timely content, ensuring a personalized and welcoming NCSL employee experience.

Progress Report: In the fall, the NCSL Human Resources Department sought bids from several organizations to provide consultation on the organization's onboarding process. Currently, the team is reviewing the proposals and plans to hire the consultant in the new year with the intent to implement the recommendations with a comprehensive conference-wide launch in spring 2025.

Aug. 4, 2024 | Louisville Marriott Downtown | Louisville, Ky.

The following officers and members were present:

 Officers

• Speaker Robin Vos, Wisconsin, NCSL Foundation president
• Christine Csizmadia, NEI, NCSL Foundation vice president
• Anne Sappenfield, Wisconsin, NCSL Foundation secretary/treasurer

 Members

• Pablo Benavente, Turo, California
• Senator Elaine Bowers, Kansas
• David Casey, Maximus, Virginia
• David Christman, National Beer Wholesalers Association, Virginia
• Senator Bob Duff, Connecticut
• Ashley Dwyer, Service Employees International Union, Washington, D.C.
• Representative Marcus Evans, Illinois
• Matt Gehring, Minnesota Legislature
• Senator Wayne Harper, Utah
• Anika Hagenson, Intuit, Minnesota
• Senator Bill Hansell, Oregon
• Jon Heining, Texas Legislature
• Senator Brian Patrick Kennedy, Rhode Island
• Matt Kiesling, American Gas Association, Washington, D.C.
• Richard Leadbeater, Esri, Maryland
• Senator Greg Leding, Arkansas
• Brian McAndrews, TIAA, California
• Senator Ann Millner, Utah
• Jenn Stowe, Carpet and Rug Institute, Virginia
• Brenda Snyder, CVS Health, Washington
• Representative Michaelle Solages, New York
• Angela Storseth-Cooper, US Oncology Network, Texas
• Kevin Thompson, Walmart, Arkansas
• Ethan Wilson, Stateside Associates, Nevada
• Katie Wright, American Hotel & Lodging Association, Washington, D.C.
• Fred Zeytoonjian, Apple, Washington, D.C.

NCSL Staff

• Alex Alavi, NCSL
• Jacquelyn Bayard, NCSL Foundation
• Janet Berlo-McCluskey, NCSL Foundation
• Mick Bullock, NCSL
• Amy Fidelis, NCSL
• Stacy Householder, NCSL
• Elizabeth Johnston, NCSL Foundation
• Jon Jukuri, NCSL Foundation
• Lesley Kennedy, NCSL
• Diana Noel, NCSL Foundation
• Emily Peterson, NCSL Foundation
• Molly Ramsdel, NCSL
• Marisa Sterling-Abram, NCSL
• Tim Storey, NCSL
• Bryan Thomas, NCSL
• Victor Vialpando-Nuñez, NCSL
• Natalie Wood, NCSL
• Kazia Washington, NCSL

Guests

• Michael Adams, Virginia Senate
• David Albert, Maximus
• Michael Behm, Stateside
• Abby Blocker, Recycled Materials Association
• Kevin Callahan, StubHub
• Jean Cantrell, State and Federal Communications
• J. Gentry, South Carolina General Assembly
• Billy Glunz, American Airlines
• Brian Grim, Sellers Dorsey
• Kristen Hildreth, Recycled Materials Association
• Sabrina Lewellen, NCSL Staff Chair
• Larry Lewis, Cigna
• Beth Loudy, State Government Affairs Council
• Luke Martel, American Hotel & Lodging Association
• Maggie Mick, Multistate
• Eboni Morris, Pfizer
• Kevin Pula, Deloitte
• Jim Purekal, Advanced Energy United
• John Snyder, NCSL Staff Vice Chair
• Betsy Theroux, Georgia House of Representatives
• Randy Querry, American Association for Laboratory Accreditation
• Todd Washam, Cenovus Energy
• Martha Wigton, Sellers Dorsey
• Caleb Williamson, The App Association
• Marvin Yates, Multistate

President's Report, Speaker Robin Vos

Speaker Vos expressed gratitude to Foundation staff and sponsors for their efforts in achieving a successful year. He highlighted the Foundation’s financial achievements, exceeding its fiscal year 2024 fundraising goal of $4.6 million by raising over $5 million—a 10% increase. Sponsor engagement reached record levels, with top-level sponsors increasing to 97, including 34 Capitol Circle and 63 Platinum sponsors. Since 2015, sponsors have contributed $33 million to NCSL initiatives.

Vos commended the completion of significant bylaw updates, the first since the Foundation’s inception. Key revisions included expanding the board to 57 members, introducing three-year term limits, clarifying officer roles and enhancing committee guidelines. These updates were scheduled for approval by the NCSL Executive Committee later that day.

He announced 21 new board member nominations and concluded his report by acknowledging the collective efforts of staff and sponsors in advancing NCSL’s mission.

Chief Executive Officer’s Report, Tim Storey

Tim Storey, NCSL’s CEO, provided an update on the organization’s accomplishments and financial health, emphasizing the Foundation’s critical role. He began by highlighting the completion of a significant overhaul of the Foundation’s bylaws, thanking contributors for their efforts in improving the Foundation’s structure and governance.

Storey reaffirmed NCSL’s mission to strengthen the legislative institution through collaboration among legislators, staff and the private sector. He expressed gratitude to Foundation sponsors for their support, noting that their contributions enable NCSL to provide essential programs and services.

Storey reported that all 50 states, territories, and the District of Columbia paid membership dues this year, bolstering NCSL’s reserve fund to five and a half months of operating expenses, exceeding nonprofit standards.

He highlighted the success of the Louisville Summit, which exceeded expectations with over 5,300 registrants despite the challenges of an election year. Storey praised the Kentucky leadership and incoming Staff Chair John Snyder for their contributions and noted substantial growth in the exhibit hall, which featured 270 exhibitors, including 49 Foundation members.

Storey concluded by reflecting on the sense of community fostered at NCSL’s Summit, expressing his appreciation for the opportunity to support legislators and staff. He invited attendees to reach out with any questions or further discussions.

50th Anniversary Report, Bryan Thomas

NCSL Chief Communications Officer Bryan Thomas detailed preparations for NCSL’s 50th anniversary, officially launching at the first general session. Initiatives include a dedicated website (ncsl.org/50), resolutions from 37 states recognizing the milestone and multimedia projects documenting state capitols. Commemorative items, such as a coffee table book, will further celebrate NCSL’s history.

Thomas noted the anniversary spans three fiscal years, with potential future funding needs. He thanked the Foundation for its support and encouraged participation in related activities.

Chief Financial Officer’s Report, Alex Alavi

Alex Alavi, NCSL’s chief financial officer, provided an update on the Foundation’s financial performance and projections. He began by reporting that FY 2024 is projected to exceed budget expectations by $492,000, with contributions reaching $5.1 million—$500,000 over the budgeted amount. Alavi attributed the Foundation’s strong financial performance to robust sponsor contributions. Operating expenses remained mostly on target, with increases in personnel, travel and IT costs due to the addition of a staff member to support the Foundation's growth. Legal expenses of $24,000 for the bylaw review were fully offset by $24,000 in interest income earned from the Foundation's operating account.

For FY 2025, Alavi reported that contributions are budgeted at $5 million, reflecting a $400,000 increase over FY 2024. The budget includes $3.4 million for awards to NCSL and $600,000 in supplemental awards, both pending board approval. He explained that personnel costs reflect the full-year impact of the additional staff member, along with increased benefits and IT expenses. Professional costs include adjustments for inflation, credit card processing fees and regulatory filings for charitable registrations.

Alavi highlighted that the Foundation’s fund balance is projected to reach $751,000 by the end of FY 2025, equating to five and a half months of operating expenses—placing it in the upper range of the nonprofit standard of three to six months. He also noted that FY 2025 legal expenses will primarily support the finalization of bylaw amendments.

The report concluded with expressions of gratitude from Anne Sappenfield and attendees for Alavi’s clear and detailed presentation. No questions were raised.

Leaders and Training Program Report, Stacy Householder

Stacy Householder, NCSL’s vice president of leaders and international, reported significant growth in the professional development program. In 2024, 175 trainings have been completed or scheduled, reaching over 5,000 participants with a year-end goal of 11,000–12,000. Efforts include in-person and virtual sessions in states like California, New York and Louisiana, alongside post-election orientation planning.

The Legislative Leaders Program maintained a robust 2024 schedule, featuring events in Washington, D.C., Austin, Texas, Normandy, France and Athens. Planned 2025 programs include a Leaders Symposium in Lake Tahoe, Calif., leadership sessions in Boston, and visits to Iceland and Philadelphia.

Householder expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s support and noted interest in reviving the Gettysburg Leadership Program.

Chief Development Officer’s Report, Diana Noel

Diana Noel, NCSL’s chief development officer, reflected on the achievements of the past year, emphasizing the Foundation’s growth, visibility and member engagement. She began by thanking the bylaws committee for its tireless work, highlighting the extensive overhaul of the bylaws that strengthened the Foundation’s governance. Noel noted that the process, while complex, resulted in valuable lessons and improvements, setting the stage for future success.

Noel shared updates on innovative initiatives to enhance the Foundation’s visibility and engagement. These included branded hotel key cards featuring Foundation sponsors and Exhibit Hall "floor clings" that showcased sponsor contributions, encouraging greater participation. She described these efforts as part of a broader strategy to create meaningful opportunities for sponsors to connect and demonstrate their impact.

Noel expressed deep gratitude to members who navigated logistical challenges, including travel delays, to attend the meeting, acknowledging their dedication as ambassadors of the Foundation. She specifically recognized several board members cycling off and expressed appreciation for their service and contributions. Plaques were presented, and professional photos arranged for departing members, including Arkansas Sen. Greg Leding, Jon Heining (Texas), David Casey (Maximus), Dave Christman (National Beer Wholesalers Association), Mark Giuffre (UPS) and Chris Riley (ADM). Noel emphasized the lasting impact of their efforts on the Foundation’s growth and thanked them for their unwavering commitment.

Noel concluded her report by extending heartfelt thanks to the entire board and staff for their continued engagement and hard work in advancing the Foundation’s mission. The room acknowledged her report with applause.

Other Business

In his closing remarks, Vos expressed sincere appreciation for his co-leader Christine Csizmadia and Noel, commending their leadership and exceptional contributions. Vos credited their efforts with driving the Foundation’s success and strengthening its impact nationwide.

Vos acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the board and underscored the importance of their work in supporting NCSL’s mission to empower legislative institutions. Reflecting on the progress made under his presidency, Vos expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and announced that this meeting would be his last as Foundation president.

Speaker Pro Tempore Brian Patrick Kennedy was introduced as the incoming Foundation president. Vos noted that Kennedy would preside over the next board meeting, scheduled to take place Jan. 17, 2025, in Salt Lake City. Vos encouraged attendees to mark their calendars and participate actively in the event, highlighting the importance of continued engagement.

The meeting concluded with recognition for award recipients, a call for photos with the departing members and a collective note of thanks to all attendees for their contributions and participation during the Louisville Summit. The meeting adjourned with applause.