The chair of the board of trustees leads the board and facilitates board processes. He or she plays an important role in ensuring that the board effectively governs the institution and that trustees work together well. The chair is often perceived as the major spokesperson for the board. She or he is usually the primary point of contact with the chief executive of the district. Because of the importance of the position, effective boards describe what is expected from the chair, give thoughtful consideration to selecting the chair, and provide any necessary support and training to help that person perform the duties as defined. Board chairs are required to be knowledgeable about many areas, including board policy, major district issues, and programs, community and state policy trends and issues and laws related to boards and board meetings. Many trustees have served as chairs of other organizations; however, many come to the position with little formal training for the position. Hence, the League developed this handbook, designed to help chairs and potential chairs prepare for their role, and help trustees, chief executives and board staff support the chair's success. This document explores: (1) the authority, roles and responsibilities of the chair; (2) considerations in selecting the chair; (3) the relationship between the board and the chief executive officer; (4) principles of running effective meetings; (5) methods to strengthen the effectiveness of the board as a team; (6) ethical considerations of being chair; and (7) the chair's responsibilities in a variety of situations.