encumber, and transfer property as necessary and appropriate to carry out the purposes of the Center. (v) Publish documents and other publications in a publicly accessible manner. (vi) Incur and pay obligations as a private entity not subject to the requirements of title 31. (vii) Make or issue grants and include any conditions on such grants in furtherance of the purpose and duties of the Center. (viii) Perform any other act necessary and proper to carry out the purposes of the Center as described in its constitution and bylaws or duties outlined in this section. (3) Membership of the Board (A) In general The Board shall have 11 Directors as follows: (i) Ex-officio membership The following individuals, or their designees, shall be considered ex-officio members of the Board: (I) The Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. (II) The Executive Director, pursuant to paragraph (5)(D). (ii) Appointments (I) In general From among those members of the public who are highly respected and have knowledge and experience in the fields of aviation, finance, or academia— (aa) the Secretary of Transportation shall appoint 5 members to the Board