Leadership today requires more than delivering business results.

Organizations are navigating unprecedented complexity, from economic uncertainty and workforce transformation to growing expectations around corporate citizenship and community impact. At the same time, communities are looking for leaders across sectors to help address challenges that no single institution can solve alone.

For Greg Cunningham, leadership has always been about creating opportunities for others. Greg sees nonprofit board service as one of the most meaningful ways leaders can apply their skills, strengthen organizations, and contribute to thriving communities.

Ahead of this year’s Minnesota NACD Chapter Nonprofit Board Lab, set for December 3, Greg shares his perspective on leadership, governance, and why service belongs at the center of every leader’s journey.

You often say leadership is about more than business results. What does leadership in service mean to you?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that leadership isn’t about you. It’s about the people you’re serving.

Leadership gives us influence, resources, expertise, and opportunities. The question becomes, how are we using those gifts to create positive outcomes for others?

That’s why leadership and service are inseparable. Service gives leadership purpose. It challenges us to think beyond quarterly results and consider the long-term impact we’re having on people, organizations, and communities.

Why is nonprofit board service such an important opportunity for today’s leaders?

Nonprofit board service is one of the most rewarding leadership experiences available. There are more than 1.8 million nonprofits across the U. S. addressing everything from education and healthcare to economic mobility and community development. These organizations play a critical role in our communities, and they need capable leaders around the board table.

Strategic direction, financial stewardship, risk oversight, succession planning, accountability – these are all skills developed in the corporate world that can have tremendous impact when applied to nonprofit organizations.

Why is strong governance important for both nonprofit and corporate organizations?

Governance creates trust. Every organization depends on trust from its stakeholders, employees, customers, donors, investors, and community members. One of the things NACD Minnesota has championed for decades is the idea that governance is governance. While missions may differ, the core responsibilities of board leadership remain remarkably consistent across corporate and nonprofit organizations.

Whether you’re an experienced director or exploring your first board opportunity, strong governance requires continuous learning and intentional leadership.

Why did U.S. Bank choose to support NACD Minnesota’s Nonprofit Board Lab?

The Nonprofit Board Lab aligns closely with our commitment to helping communities thrive. It brings together corporate leaders, nonprofit executives, foundation leaders, and experienced and aspiring board members to learn from one another and strengthen their governance capabilities.

What I appreciate about this event is that the experience is practical. Participants aren’t just listening to presentations. They’re working through real governance challenges, exploring board dynamics, and gaining tools they can apply immediately within their organizations and communities.

What role do leaders play in shaping the future of their communities?

A significant one. Business leaders have real influence, not only within their organizations, but across society.

Every leader should ask themselves: “What am I doing to help create the kind of community I want future generations to inherit?”

The answer may look different for each person, but board service is one of the most powerful ways to engage. It allows leaders to bring their expertise, networks, and perspectives to organizations working to solve real challenges and create meaningful change.

To learn more about NACD Minnesota and the Nonprofit Board Lab visit the event page on nacdonline.org/minnesota/.