SBCA Call for Volunteers

Help shape the future of the Society for Benefit-Cost Analysis (SBCA). We are continually seeking volunteers to serve on key committees and work groups. Serving as a volunteer is a meaningful way to support the Society’s mission, grow your professional network, and contribute to the advancement of benefit-cost analysis.

Ready to serve? Submit your volunteer interest form here.

Committee Charges & Expectations

Below are brief descriptions of SBCA's committees and work groups. Most groups meet as needed via Zoom. Terms are typically for one year unless otherwise noted. SBCA staff provide administrative support to all committees.

Nominating Committee

Charge: Identifies and recommends a slate of candidates for open positions on the SBCA Board of Directors, including Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and At-Large Directors.

Expectations:

  • Evaluate potential candidates based on experience, diversity, and contributions to the field

  • Participate in deliberations (2–3 meetings)

  • Finalize recommendations several months in advance of the election

Awards Committee

Charge: Selects recipients for the Society’s prestigious annual awards (excluding the Jerry Ellig Award). Oversees the Fellows nomination process and recommends new Fellows for approval by the Board. Develops and refines award criteria and nomination procedures in consultation with the Board of Directors.

Expectations:

  • Review nomination materials against established criteria

  • Attend evaluation meetings (typically 2–3)

  • Maintain confidentiality throughout the selection process

Program Committee (Annual Conference)

Charge: Develops the program for the Annual Conference by reviewing and selecting abstracts and recruiting/organizing sessions.

Expectations:

  • Review abstract submissions (typically in September–October)

  • Attend 1-2 meetings

  • Support session organization and/or chair a session during the conference

Professional Development Committee

Charge: Helps plan webinars, workshops, and other educational activities beyond the Annual Conference.

Expectations:

  • Brainstorm and recommend topics or speakers

  • Assist in organizing or moderating sessions

  • Provide feedback on event effectiveness

ASSA Session Organization & Coordination

Charge: Coordinates SBCA’s session submission to the Allied Social Science Associations (ASSA) Annual Meeting.

Expectations:

  • Organize a compelling session proposal for ASSA

  • Submit materials by the June deadline

  • Liaise with speakers and SBCA leadership

Audit Committee

Charge: Provides independent oversight of SBCA’s financial practices and reports findings to the Board.

Expectations:

  • Meets annually to conduct the audit

  • Presents findings at the fall Board meeting

Strategic Initiatives & Task Forces

These groups support SBCA’s efforts to expand and diversify the field of benefit-cost analysis. Time commitments are flexible and work is generally project-based.

European Activities Task Force

Goal: Explore opportunities for collaboration and engagement with BCA scholars and practitioners in Europe.

Expectations:

  • Join occasional planning calls

  • Share ideas for events, partnerships, or regional engagement

Asian Expansion & Events Task Force

Goal: Identify ways to expand SBCA’s reach and relevance in Asia through events or partnerships.

Expectations:

  • Participate in discussions as needed

  • Help develop region-specific programming

Expanding the Audience for BCA Task Force

Goal: Encourage adoption of benefit-cost analysis in new sectors—particularly humanitarian, international development, and related fields.

Expectations:

  • Brainstorm sector outreach strategies

  • Explore how BCA can address pressing social and economic challenges

  • Collaborate with like-minded organizations

Who Should Volunteer?

We welcome volunteers at all stages of their careers—from students to senior professionals—and from across disciplines, sectors, and geographic regions. No prior board or committee experience is required. Volunteers should bring:

✔️ A commitment to SBCA’s mission
✔️ Willingness to actively participate
✔️ Respect for confidentiality and collaboration

How to Volunteer

If you're interested in serving on a committee or work group, please complete our brief interest form: SBCA Volunteer Interest Form

We match volunteers to opportunities on a rolling basis and will follow up with additional information.