AACN is governed by a 14-member Board of Directors, 11 of whom represent a member institution, and 2 represent nursing practice. AACN's President and CEO also serves as an ex-officio member of the Board. The Association convenes various committees including Board Committees (Executive, Governance, Finance, and Audit Committees), Nominating Committee, Advisory Committees including Diversity/Inclusion, Government Affairs, Membership, and Program Subcommittees, and establishes Task Forces and Advisory Groups as needed to focus on topics of critical concern. Leadership Network Steering Committees oversee the activities of AACN’s seven Leadership Networks for faculty and staff. A Joint Council convenes annually and provides an opportunity for committees, task forces and advisory groups to engage directly with the Board of Directors.