The Philanthropy Southeast Board of Trustees is comprised of leaders selected from Philanthropy Southeast member organizations. Board members are eligible to serve two terms of three years each. Nominees for a first term are approved by the full membership at the Annual Meeting. In the event of a vacancy, the Board of Trustees may appoint someone to fill the remainder of the term.

Each of the 11 states in the Philanthropy Southeast footprint must be represented by at least one person on the Board. Philanthropy Southeast also strives for diversity on the Board with regard to gender, race, age, type of organization, role and experience level.