Board of Directors

Constitutional Background and Board of Directors

The Atlanta Soto Zen Center is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, legally operated by a Board of Directors that meets every other month or so to oversee expenses, define goals and priorities, and to oversee the general operation of the center. The Abbot (Zenkai Taiun Michael Elliston) has responsibility of all Dharma-related matters such as instruction, induction and training of initiates and disciples, scheduling and format of services and retreats, and outreach to members of the global sangha. The Board concerns itself with legal and financial issues, oversight and maintenance of the facilities and programs of the center.

The Board of Directors consists of between 5 and 15 individuals, both elected and appointed. One-third of the elected seats are elected each year, providing continuity to Board operations. The Board specifies the definition of membership in the corporation and the manner and timing of elections. Active initiates and disciples are voting members. The Board elects officers from among its membership and pursues its work by forming committees focused around ongoing and special projects, with a presiding chair. Board committees may include participants from the general membership (including non-voting members).

Current Board members:

For more details, please see the ASZC By Laws and Addendum: Members. Records of the ASZC Board of Directors are open to inspection by the membership (other than individual donor information) - please contact the Secretary for more information.