Obtain Apple Inc.s most recent proxy statement (officially called a DEF 14A). Go to www.sec.gov. Click on More Search Options in the top right corner. Enter Apple Inc. (it is often easier to enter the ticker symbol rather than the company name) and click find companies. Find the most recent DEF 14A form (NOT DEFA 14A) and click on documents. Click on the link under Document which has a description of DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT or contains DEF 14A.

2. Address each of the 8 governance items listed below. State how Apple deals with each issue and if this is a positive or negative based on your own research and lectures. Description of the Apples governance should be in your own words. Copying and pasting from the proxy statement is not acceptable.

A. Board elections Does the board have annual or staggered elections? Are board members individually up for election?

B. Board compensation Are board members paid partially in stock and/or stock options? How does board member total compensation compare to average board compensation?

C. Board perks What non-salary benefits do board members receive?

D. Board size How many board members are there?

E. Board independence Are a majority of the board members independent? Is there evidence that the board ever meets without the CEO present?

F. Board over commitment How many times does the entire board meet per year? Did all board members attend at least 90% of the board meetings? How many board members have more than 3 outside positions? How many have more than 5 outside positions?

G. Succession planning Does Apple have a succession plan to replace the CEO if necessary? What details are provided about the succession plan?

H. Executive pay Are executives paid with a mix of cash, bonus, stock, and stock options? Does the structure appear to provide incentives for executives focus on long-term firm performance? Is there evidence the executives were given bonuses without meeting performance benchmarks?