The deadline to submit applications for positions on the United States Bowling Congress Board of Directors and Youth Committee is Sept. 1.

This date is an extension of the traditional July 1 deadline for prospective applicants.

“Having talented people provide leadership for USBC is a key component of our organization’s success,” new USBC President Darlene Baker said. “I encourage those with a passion for our sport and a strong professional background to apply for consideration.”

Baker officially became the first female president of the USBC on Sunday. The organization’s first two presidents were Michael Carroll and Jeff Bojé.

eBowler asked Baker how she spent her first day in office. She said that she was in Helsinki, rooting for Junior Team USA in the WTBA World Youth Championships.

And what are her priorities during the first few days of her administration?

“My priorities aren’t really any different, whether it’s first day, first month or first year,” she said. “We need to continue to improve our relationships, and explore new opportunities and programs, not only for our current member, but to entice new members as well.

“We need to improve our communication as well. We are really making good decisions; we just need to do a better job at explaining why those decisions are made to eliminate so much speculation.”

Meanwhile, she’s hoping to have the strongest Board of Directors possible with which to work throughout her tenure.

Applications for the Board will be reviewed by the USBC Nominating Committee. That committee will then recommend a slate of candidates to delegates ahead of the next USBC Annual Meeting, scheduled for June 29-July 2, 2011, at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, Texas.

For the 2011 election, the Nominating Committee will slate up to two candidates for each open position on the board. This is a change from 2010, when only one candidate was slated for each open position. There will be four positions open for election in 2011. Candidates may also run from the floor.

“We received feedback from delegates expressing an interest in allowing for more slated candidates,” Baker said. “If there are enough qualified candidates, the Nominating Committee now has some flexibility.”

The process for nominations to the USBC Youth Committee remains the same for 2011. That group assists in promoting and governing youth components of the organization.

Prospective candidates can find links to the applications for download at the bottom of the home page of Bowl.com.