The University of Iowa Graduate College External Advisory Board (GCEAB) serves in an advisory role to the dean of the Graduate College and as an advocate for graduate education at the University of Iowa. External Advisory Board members represent a diverse range of stakeholders in graduate education.
 

Mission

GCEAB members provide external perspective and counsel as well as advocacy and support for the College’s programs, strategic direction, and achieving the overall goals of the Graduate College.

The objectives of the Graduate College External Advisory Board are to provide strategic advice and support to the dean by:

• Advising the Dean on future directions of the College
• Assisting in increasing the visibility and image of graduate education locally, nationally, and internationally
• Advocating for and promoting positive public relations for the college
• Building connections and guiding fundraising priorities and strategies for the Graduate College
   

Expectations of members

Expectations of Graduate College External Advisory Board members:

• Be well informed of university and Graduate College mission, goals, and practices
• Attend and participate in two meetings per year
• Serve as an active advocate for the University of Iowa Graduate College among alumni groups, within professional groups, and in the community.

In return, the GCEAB will provide its members:

• The opportunity to become integrally involved in matters of strategic importance to the Graduate College and the University of Iowa.
• The opportunity to make a significant difference in the growth and development of students, the College, and its various programs.
• The opportunity to network with students, faculty, alumni, campus and community leaders.
   

Terms and meetings

The Dean selects a chair of the Graduate College External Advisory Board to serve for a minimum of one year. With guidance from the GCEAB chair, at-large members are selected by the dean and serve a three-year term. Terms will be renewable by mutual consent between the member and the dean. (Membership terms in the initial three years will be staggered so that a cyclical rotation is established.)

The GCEAB meetings are held on campus or at a host member site twice a year during the fall and spring semesters. The Graduate College will cover expenses for receptions and meals included as part of the Board meetings. Board members are given an honorarium to cover their own travel and lodging expenses.