Guide
The Essential Guide for Board Education in 2026
Priya Cherian Huskins
Dec 10, 2025
Most directors recognize that there is always room to strengthen board effectiveness.
That said, recent data from PwC’s Annual Corporate Directors Survey shows boards are trying to find the right balance of expertise and strategy, but gaps remain.
According to the latest research, less than one-third (32%) of executives say their boards have the right mix of skills.
What’s more, 55% of directors think someone on the board should be replaced, citing the inability to contribute meaningfully and a lack of necessary expertise for the role.
Many directors view these challenges as opportunities for growth.
Eighty-eight percent agree they can take specific actions to improve board effectiveness, with 45% saying that additional education and training on key topics is an important step forward.
As PwC put it: “Directors who pursue ongoing education and training on emerging topics are likely better equipped to contribute meaningfully to complex discussions.”
This is especially important in the age of AI, when 38% of directors say their boards lack education on AI developments and 43% cite the pace of change as a top concern.
The good news is that there is no shortage of educational events for directors in the year ahead.
Woodruff Sawyer’s Board Education Resource Guide returns for 2026 and is designed to simplify the search for director education and training opportunities.
Inside, you will find curated resources, organized by format, to help you quickly identify what may fit your schedule and learning goals.
Board education in 2026 includes:
- Multi-day, immersive programs that cultivate board-level leadership and strategy
- Specialized sessions that are tailored for board committees
- In-person seminars for more focused skills development
- Digital offerings, including webinars, podcasts, and thought-leadership content
- Woodruff Sawyer’s own customized educational programs for clients
The Guide includes some of the most respected programs in the country, from Stanford Directors’ College to Harvard’s Making Corporate Boards More Effective, alongside a wide range of regional events, workshops, and virtual sessions.
Importantly, Woodruff Sawyer clients can take advantage of our exclusive director education programs that are offered at no additional cost.
Event discounts may be available, so it is worth contacting your Woodruff Sawyer representative as you plan your 2026 continuing education.
You can download the full Board Education Resource Guide here or by clicking the thumbnail at the top of this page.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this publication are solely those of the author; they do not necessarily reflect the views of AJG. Further, the information contained herein is offered as general industry guidance regarding current market risks, available coverages, and provisions of current federal and state laws and regulations. It is intended for informational and discussion purposes only. This publication is not intended to offer financial, tax, legal or client-specific insurance or risk management advice. No attorney-client or broker-client relationship is or may be created by your receipt or use of this material or the information contained herein. We are not obligated to provide updates on the information contained herein, and we shall have no liability to you arising out of this publication. Woodruff Sawyer, a Gallagher Company, CA Lic. #0329598
