One of the pleasures of working in the social sector is that I get to visit lots of different organizations.  Almost all of them are inspiring and energizing.  Each cause has its own culture.  I often wonder who sets the norm for the enterprise.  Does the founder create a culture that remains for years?  Can a class of new board members alter the chemistry?  Does one new staff member enhance or destroy the collegiality?  Can a donor impose a culture on an organization?  Does a partner organization have an influence?  What is the role of the CEO in creating chemistry?

How have you seen your organization’s culture established?  Who influences the norms?