Application Process
Step Two:
Step Three:
If Selected to Serve, you will be contacted by our office
Step Four:
Oath Administered for You to Begin Service
Code of Conduct:
Gubernatorial Appointments
About Board and Commission Appointments
Gubernatorial appointments are an ongoing process, with approximately 900 appointments being made throughout the year.
Please note that the majority of boards and commissions have certain qualifications of appointment that must be met as set forth in the Code of Virginia. Additional information about the boards and commissions may be found in the Annual Report of the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Also known as the "Blue Book," the Report details the purpose, powers and duties of each board, seat qualifications or requirements by Code, and a listing of current board members.
The Governor makes appointments to three types of boards and commissions:
- Advisory — An advisory board, commission or council serves as a formal liaison between the agency and the public, ensuring that the agency understands and responds to public concerns and that the activities of the agency are communicated to the public. Advisory boards provide advice and counsel to an executive branch agency.
- Policy — A policy board, commission or council is specifically charged by statute to promulgate public policies or regulations. Policy boards may also be charged by statute with adjudicating violations of those policies or regulations.
- Supervisory — A supervisory board, commission or council is responsible for agency operations, including approval of appropriations requests. Supervisory boards appoint the agency director, and the board ensures that the agency director complies with all board and statutory directives. Agency directors serve at the pleasure of the board.
Factors to Consider
Serving the Commonwealth of Virginia on a board or commission is both an honor and a privilege. Public service, however, is not for everyone. Individuals applying for a board or commission should be aware of the following:
As expected in an open and democratic government, the activities of boards and commissions are subject to public and press scrutiny.
Applicants who are selected by the Governor to serve will be required to complete a financial disclosure statement as a condition of serving on the board or commission.
Unless otherwise specified by law, most boards and commissions meet quarterly each year. However, some boards may meet more frequently due to the responsibilities and functions of the board.