skisplat

I notice that almost all of the REI board of directors are CEO's, executives, or presidents of something. REI's board vesting process bylaws seem to eliminate most non-elite people from having a chance to make it onto the board. (The existing board members have to select and approve nominations before the nominations go out to members for a final vote) To add to REI's authenticity, have you ever considered a push to get some everyday outdoorsmen/women onto the board? Someone such as a professional mountain guide, ski patroller, or even one of REI's more seasoned sales floor employees? Someone who makes less than $50k per year, but who is intimately connected to the outdoors and who better understands and represents the companies' membership base? I'd be first in line! :) Thanks.

Current Board of directors:

Matt Compton, Portland, Ore.: Startup executive and venture capitalist (2018)

Christine Day, Vancouver, British Columbia: CEO of Luvo (2018) Karen E. (Kari) Glover, Seattle, Wash.: Attorney (2017)

John Hamlin, Austin, Texas: President and managing partner, private equity firm (2016)

Steven Hooper, Bellevue, Wash.: Founder and partner, venture capital firm (2016)

Steve Lockhart, Oakland, Calif.: Chief medical officer, regional health system (2018)

Beth Newlands Campbell, Cornelius, N.C.: Former president, supermarket retailer (2018)

Sharon Philpott, White Salmon, Wash.: Certified public accountant (2017)

Bert Quintana, Nashville, Tenn.: President, global customer care provider (2016)

Cheryl Scott, Seattle, Wash.: Senior advisor, global foundation (2017)

Jerry Stritzke, Seattle, Wash.: REI President and CEO (by virtue of position)

Anthony Truesdale, Mountain Lakes, N.J.: CEO, national nutritional products retailer (2016)

Board election process: http://www.rei.com/about-rei/board-of-directors/election-process.html

To expand on the question: Even though almost all REI employees have the day off on Black Friday, many can't afford to go and play due to being paid close to minimum wage. What do you think of a $15 "living" minimum wage across the company for REI? Thanks.