Invariably, whenever "Exchange" surveys center directors about their major frustrations, near the top of the list for non profit directors appears, "working with a board of directors." Boards are either viewed as much too involved--meddling in day-to-day matters that should not be their concern--or too little involved--requiring too much maintenance from the director. There are certainly some structural challenges that complicate the relationship between the director and the board. However, given proper attention, a board of directors can be a source of satisfaction, not frustration, for a director. This article reviews what can go wrong with a board/director relationship and what can go right.