In our latest Game Over: c*ncer episode, host Dana Nichols and Val Solomon sat down with Clifton Scott, Chief Operating Officer at AdventHealth Flagler and St. John’s Market, dedicated community leader, and one of Cannonball Kids’ cancer Foundation’s newest board members. Clifton shared his journey into nonprofit board service, why it matters, and what he’s learned along the way.
Watch Clifton’s episode here:
Game Over: c*ncer EP33: Clifton Scott
Here are seven takeaways from our conversation:
1. Leadership Training Creates Confidence and Opens Doors
Clifton credits the Black Boardroom Leadership Institute for giving him the knowledge and confidence to step into board service. The program not only taught fiduciary responsibilities but also helped connect him with organizations actively seeking diverse board members. It shows how intentional DEI efforts can create opportunities and strengthen nonprofits.
2. Fiduciary Responsibility Is Real and Empowering
Joining a board isn’t just about passion. Board members carry financial and legal responsibility for the organization. For Clifton, learning to review audits, financial statements, and accountability processes was eye-opening. Instead of being intimidating, this knowledge made him feel empowered and invested in the mission.
3. Ongoing Education Drives Board Development
Not everyone comes to the boardroom with financial or nonprofit expertise. Clifton and CKc’s leadership emphasized the importance of ongoing education for board members, making sure no one feels left out or “too new” to ask questions. Transparency builds trust and makes board service approachable.
4. Alignment Between Mission and Skills Matters
Before joining CKc’s board, Clifton did his homework. He researched the mission, considered how his healthcare background could add value, and confirmed the alignment of CKc’s mission with his values. His advice: vet organizations before joining to ensure your skills meet their needs and the mission resonates with you personally.
5. Employers Can Play a Key Role in Service
AdventHealth encourages its employees to serve on boards, even allowing service during work hours. For Clifton, having the support of his employer made it easier to say “yes” to board service. Strong partnerships between employers and nonprofits not only benefit organizations but also enrich workplace culture and the larger community.
6. Understanding Impact Deepens Commitment
Clifton was surprised to learn that CKc’s impact extends far beyond Central Florida, funding research and clinical trials across the country. That realization deepened his commitment, reminding him that local service can have national and global impact.
7. Find the Right Fit, Then Dive In
Clifton encourages others to seek out board opportunities that complement their skills and passions. Once you find the right fit, board service doesn’t feel like “another job.” It feels like a natural extension of who you are. His biggest tip? Do your research, ask questions, and commit to an organization that excites you.
Final Thoughts
Board service may sound intimidating, but as Clifton’s story shows, it’s also rewarding, educational, and transformative. By bringing your skills, curiosity, and passion to the table, you can make a real difference—not just for the nonprofit you serve, but for the community at large.
If you’re moved by Clifton’s story and want to be part of the progress that’s helping kids and families facing cancer, visit cannonballkidscancer.org to learn more, donate, or get involved.
Know a survivor or advocate whose story needs to be shared? Email us at info@cannonballkidscancer.org to nominate a guest!
