Regularly Meeting Wednesdays @ 5:00PM Lower Franklin Hall
Regularly Meeting Wednesdays @ 5:00PM Lower Franklin Hall
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Alpha Phi Omega Constitution and Bylaws Phi Omicron PREAMBLE We, the Phi Omicron Chapter of Alpha Phi Omega, National Service Fraternity, established for the purpose of assembling college students in the fellowship of the principles of scouting as embodied in the Scout Oath and Law, to develop leadership, to promote friendship, and to provide service to humanity, and to further the freedom that is our national, educational, and intellectual heritage, do adopt these bylaws. ARTICLE I NAME The name of this Chapter shall be Phi Omicron of Alpha Phi Omega. ARTICLE II PURPOSE AND POLICY This Chapter shall be conducted as a Service Fraternity under the policies, principles, and provisions set forth in the Standard Chapter Articles of Association, National Bylaws, and these Chapter Bylaws of Phi Omicron of Alpha Phi Omega. This Chapter will maintain a set of written rules and polices which will govern the daily operations of the Fraternity and will guide this Chapter on points not addressed in these Bylaws. Chapter policy will be superseded by: National Bylaws, Standard Chapter Articles of Association, National Policies, and Phi Omicron Bylaws. A simple majority vote of those eligible to vote may amend Chapter policy. Quorum for any and all meetings shall be three-fourths of active brother's. ARTICLE III Membership Section 1: Open Membership : No otherwise qualified student shall be denied membership in this Chapter of Alpha Phi Omega on the basis of race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, fraternal affiliation, or course of study. Section 2: Membership : All members initiated by Fraternity Ritual shall be referred to as Brothers. Section 3: Active Membership : Active Membership in this Chapter shall be granted to any student who fulfills the National and Chapter requirements for membership and maintains the G.P.A standards established by Ferrum College. If at any time a Brother's overall G.P.A falls below 2.0, he or she shall be placed on a one-term probation period. If at the end of this probation period, the Brother's cumulative G.P.A. has not reached 2.0, he or she shall be suspended until a G.P.A. of 2.0 is obtained. The rights and responsibilities of an Active Brother are: Part 1 . To pay dues, Part 2. To vote, Part 3 . To hold office, Part 4 . To hold committee chairmanships, Part 5 . To attend meetings, Part 6 . To participate in service projects of no less than forty (40) hours per semester, Part 7 . To wear Alpha Phi Omega letters, Part 8 . To be a Big Brother, Part 9 . To attend social functions of the Fraternity, Part 10 . To be in committees Part 11 . To sign pledge books, Part 12 . To conduct daily behavior in such a manner that emulates the three cardinal principles of Alpha Phi Omega: (1) be a friend, (2) be a leader, (3) be of service. Section 4: Associate Membership : Associate or Inactive Membership shall be conferred on any Active Brother who finds it necessary to cease full involvement in Chapter affairs because of other commitments of time or effort, and who petitions for such membership. The petition must be submitted in writing to the Vice President of Membership of the Executive Committee so that the committee may approve it. A majority vote of the Executive committee shall be necessary to confer Associate Membership upon the member. The Vice President of Membership shall read the approved petition for Associate Membership to the brotherhood at the next Chapter meeting. The rights and responsibilities of an Associate Brother are: Part 1 . Must pay half of Active Brother dues, Part 2 . Are entitled to privileges of an Active Brother (see Article III Section 3) except those of: 2a : Voting, 2b : Holding office or committee chairmanships, 2c : Acting as a Big Brother, Part 3 . May become Active by obtaining: 3a : Ten (20) service hours, 3b : Attending two (2) Chapter meetings 3c : Submission of a written request to the Chapter President that he/she be reinstated as an active member. Section 5: Advisory Membership : This Chapter may confer Advisory membership upon persons recommended by the majority vote of the Advisory Committee and the Brothers at a regularly scheduled meeting to serve on its Advisory Committee. The term of office for an Advisor shall be defined as one year. Advisors may serve an unlimited number of terms. The decision to continue as an Advisor in their office shall be voted on annually at the Chapter election meeting. This Chapter may not confer Advisory Membership on current Ferrum students. This Chapter will maintain at least the minimum required Advisors as specified by the National Bylaws. The rights and duties of Advisory Membership are as set forth in Article XII. Advisory Committee : Part 1 . Scouting/ Youth Services Advisor: The term of office for the Scouting/Youth Services Advisor shall be for one (1) year with an unlimited number of terms permitted. Elections will be held annually on the same day as Advisor Elections. The Scouting/Youth Services Advisor must be affiliated with a local scouting council or youth services organization. The Scouting/Youth Services advisor must be recommended by the Advisor Liaison Committee. The Scouting/Youth Services advisor shall have all rights and privileges as Active members, excluding the right to vote, hold office, have a Little Brother, and to obtain life membership. Part 2 . Administration Part 3 . Faculty Part 4 . Staff Part 5 . Student Affairs Part 6 . Institutional Advancement Section 6: Alumni Membership : Upon leaving this Chapter without having been expelled or suspended by the Chapter or the National Fraternity, all Brothers who have held Active, Advisory, or Honorary membership in this Chapter shall be regarded as Alumni Brothers. Section 7: Life Membership : Life Membership recognition shall be granted to any Active, Advisory, Alumni, or Honorary Brother who contributes to the Alpha Phi Omega Endowment Fund an amount as specified in Article VIII, Section 7 of the National Bylaws. If requested, Life Members shall receive a free subscription to the Fraternity magazine, Torch and Trefoil, renewable at no cost every five years. If the Brother to be recognized as a Life Member is concurrently an Active Brother, that Brother shall maintain all rights and privileges of Active membership. Such Brothers will be required to pay Chapter dues annually until the end of their Active membership. Section 8: Honorary Membership : Honorary membership may be conferred upon persons who have contributed significantly to this Chapter. Selection of Honorary Brothers shall require approval of at least three-fourths of the Chapter's Active Brothers; voting will take place at a regular Chapter meeting. Such membership may not be conferred upon current Ferrum students . Section 9: Transfer Brothers: Associate status in this Chapter will be granted, upon request, to a Brother who has transferred from another Chapter of Alpha Phi Omega. This Chapter can grant Active Status to the Transfer Brother with a simple majority vote of the Brotherhood and after a thirty day learning period has been completed. During these thirty (30) days the Transfer Brother may assist Pledge Trainer in the pledging process. Only after passing with a three-fourths vote will the brother be initiated into this Chapter. Section 10: Attendance Policies : Attendance at all business meetings shall be required. Attendance at other Alpha Phi Omega functions shall be expected. What shall qualify as excused and unexcused shall be as follows: Unexcused absences are: Part 1 . Any non-Alpha Phi Omega social function shall be considered an unexcused absence. Excused absences are: Part 1 . If you are seriously ill. Part 2 . For any family emergency. Part 3 . If you are involved in any type of production that requires you to miss a meeting for rehearsal or the production. Part 4 . If you participate in any athletic sport you will be excused for practice or games. Part 5. F or any religious reason. Part 6. For any work related reason. Part 7 . For any class requirements Part 8. The Vice President of Membership must be notified twenty-four (24) hours before a member plans to be absent. Part 9: No member shall be excused for reasons not specifically enumerated above unless the Executive Committee grants such approval. Section 11: Fraternal Insignia : All initiated Brothers of Alpha Phi Omega have the right to wear the letters and insignia of the Fraternity. ARTICLE IV SUSPENSION Section 1: Suspension/Active Membership Suspension : This Chapter shall have the authority to suspend Brothers for just cause and after due deliberation. Upon the suspension of a Brother, the Chapter may, at its discretion, petition the National Board of Directors for a letter of suspension to be affixed to the individual's membership record. Any Active Brother shall be suspended under any of the following conditions. Special circumstances will be dealt with on an individual basis. Brothers wishing to be recognized as having special circumstances must do so by submitting a written petition and appearing before the Executive Committee to plea their case. The Executive Committee will decide on the petition through a simple majority vote of the Committee or a Quorum shall be four fifths of the Executive Committee. A Group of at least three-fourths of the Advisory Committee will meet to look over the ruling and decide if the ruling of the Executive Committee is far and just. Reasons for suspension: Part 1 . Hazing, Part 2 . Failure to pay dues for the current semester when deemed by the treasurer, Part 3 . Missing any three (3) meetings in the semester unless excused by the Executive Committee by the next regular meeting. Missing pledge induction, vote-in or any formal ceremony such as ritual or mid-term review will be counted as two (2) missed meetings, Part 4 . By not accumulating Forty (40) hours of service per semester, half of which must be with Alpha Phi Omega, Part 5 . Committing or participating in any form(s) of behavior, which violate the National Risk Management Policy, National Membership Policy, the organization, or Ferrum College policy. Part 6. Any conduct unbecoming of a Brother, which is determined by the Executive Committee. Section 3: Associate Membership Suspension : An Associate Brother may be suspended under any of the following circumstances. Special circumstances will be dealt with on an individual basis. Brothers wishing to be recognized as having special circumstances must do so by submitting a written petition and appearing before the Executive Committee to plea his/her case. The Executive Committee will decide on the petition through a simple majority vote of the Committee. A Group of at least three-fourths of the Advisory Committee will meet to look over the ruling and decide if the ruling of the Executive Committee is fair and just. Reasons for suspension : Part 1 . Hazing, Part 2 . Failure to pay dues for the current semester when deemed by the treasurer, Part 3 . Remaining an Associate Member for more than one consecutive semester, unless permission is granted by majority vote of the Executive Committee, Part 4 . Not completing requirements set forth in Article III, Section 4, Part 3 of these bylaws, concerning hours and meetings, Part 5 . Committing or participating in any form(s) of behavior, which violate the National Risk Management Policy or National Membership Policy, and in violation of the organization or Ferrum College policy, Part 6. Any conduct unbecoming of a Brother, which is determined by the Executive Committee. Section 4: Suspension Procedures : At the time the Executive Committee determines that action must be taken against a Brother, the following procedures will be followed: Part 1 . At a regular meeting, after a period of seven (7) days of notification of such proceedings, the suspension of a member shall be the first item of business, Part 2 . The Sergeant-At-Arms will read the offenses committed by the Brother, Part 3 . The Brother will be permitted Ten (10) minutes to give reasons for the offenses, Part 4 . After the Brother in question has been allowed to speak, he/she shall be removed from the assembly to allow the other Active Brothers to discuss the situation freely. The discussion shall be no more than thirty (30) minutes, Part 5. The Sergeant-Of-Arms shall remain in the assembly to speak on the rights of the accused, Part 6 . When the discussion time has elapsed, a secret ballot vote will be called, Part 7 . In order for the Brother to be suspended, two-thirds of the active Brothers present at the meeting must vote in favor of suspension, Part 8 . After the vote, the Brother will return to the assembly and be informed of the Chapter's decision by the Sergeant-At-Arms, Section 5: Rights and Privileges : A suspended Brother shall have none of the rights and privileges of this Chapter or its Brothers. Section 6: Suspension Period : A Brother suspended during a semester shall be suspended for the duration of that semester. If suspension occurs during one of the last two meetings of a semester, the Brother in question shall be suspended for the duration of the semester immediately following. Section 7: Activation of Suspended Members : A suspended Brother may become an Active Brother by attending three (3) semester meetings as well as the last meeting of the semester, obtaining twenty (20) service hours and submitting a written request to the Executive Committee by the last Executive meeting of the semester. During this time, the suspended Brother will be treated as a Pledge and will refrain from speaking at semester meetings. The committee shall review the request and report to the Active Brother at the last regularly scheduled Chapter meeting of the term. No suspended Brother shall have his/her membership reactivated without three-fourths of the vote of all Active Brothers present. ARTICLE V PLEDGING Section 1: Pledging : Pledgeship shall be conferred upon students enrolled at Ferrum College, who are interested in participating in a period of preparation and training in the ideals and purpose of Alpha Phi Omega. Anyone who is a Ferrum College student and is in good standing (as in academics and honor code) with the college is eligible to pledge. Section 2: Requirements : All final requirements/ additions/ changes must be voted on by the Brotherhood. A mid-term review of the pledge class will be requested by the Chapter and must be provided by the Pledge Trainer by the fifth week of pledging. Each pledge must: Part 1 . Achieve a 2.0 cumulative grade point average, Part 2 . Make a pledge book and keep it as directed. (For guidelines as to the pledge book contents, see Article V, Section 3 and 4), Part 3 . Wear pledge pin and carry a pledge book at all times, except when in one's own residence, when attending off campus non-Alpha Phi Omega activities, when at formal occasions, or when at work on or off campus or during times of impropriety. Part 4 . Attend all designated functions, Part 5 . Obtain the interview of all Active Brothers. In the case a considerably large Brotherhood the Pledge Trainer may require the pledges to only obtain a percentage of the active member's signature and five questions: (1) name, (2) date of birth, (3) hometown, (4) major, (5) reason for joining Alpha Phi Omega, Part 6 . Obtain the interview of all fellow pledges, Part 7 . Obtain a minimum of twenty (20) service hours. Five (5) of these hours must be obtained from the pledge class service project, Part 8 . Obtain the signatures of each Advisory Member, Part 9 . Be responsible for the National and Chapter history, Pledge Manual and other materials pertaining directly to Alpha Phi Omega as assigned by the Pledge Trainer, Part 10 . Obtain an uncurved quiz average of 75% on the material set forth in Article V, Section 3, Part 10 of these Bylaws, Part 11 . Submit a list of one (1) or more names of students that the pledge feels would make good members of Alpha Phi Omega. The list is to be submitted to the Pledge Trainer during the final week of pledging, Part 12 . Attend all pledge class meetings; absences will only be excused by the Pledge Trainer, who must be notified at least twenty-four (24) hour prior to the meeting, Part 13 . Attend a minimum of three (3) brotherhood meetings during the pledge period unless otherwise instructed by the Pledge Trainer, Part 14 . Not act in a manner that violates the Student policies of Ferrum College, the State Criminal Justice Code of Virginia, Chapter Risk Management Policy, or the National Risk Management Policy. Part 15 . Display behavior, or significant progress towards behavior, that exemplifies the spirit of Brotherhood in Alpha Phi Omega. Part 16 . Demonstrate to the Brotherhood the completion of all previously mentioned requirements. Section 3: Pledge Book : The pledge book shall contain the following as designated by the Pledge Trainer: Part 1 . Inside Cover: Name, Part 2 . Title page should indicate the name Alpha Phi Omega plus the Greek letters, the term in which the pledge is pledging, pledge class name, and Chapter name Phi Omicron, Part 3. Table of Contents Part 4 . Chapter History Part 6 . Pledge Class officers (If applicable) Part 7 . Current Chapter officers, Part 8 . Personal history, Part 9. Service-hours chart should include: activity, date, hours, times, and service project. Part 10 . Advisory member signatures, Part 11 . Brother interview chart: should include name, date, time, and table of contents Part 12 .Brother interviews: should include at least the five (5) questions outlined in Article V, Section 3, Part 5 of these Bylaws, Part 13 .: Pledging Requirements. Part 14 . Pledge interview chart: should include name, date, time, and table of contents Part 15 . Pledge interviews: should include at least the five (5) questions outlined in Article V, Section 3, Part 5 of these Bylaws, Part 16 . Alpha Phi Omega Traditions, Big Brother pages and Family Tree Part 17 . Toast Song, Part 18 . Greek Alphabet: should include lower, upper case and English translation, Part 19 . Photos Part 20. Advice Part 21. Notes Part 22. Quotes Part 23. Merits Part 24. Family Tree Section 4: Changes in Requirements : Changes in requirements of pledging are at the discretion of the Chapter Bylaws. Any additions or deletions may be made by an affirmative vote of 75% of the active members present at the end of the pledging period. Section 5: Pledge Class : The pledge class will: Part 1 . Elect any necessary officers and the Pledge Trainer will define their duties. Part 2 : Pledge meetings shall be run under Roberts Rules of Parliamentary Procedure, Newly Revised, under the supervision of the Pledge Trainer and the Assistant Pledge Trainer as prescribed by the pledge manual. Part 3 . Choose, plan, and carry out as a pledge class: 2a : Two (2) pledge class fellowships, 2b : Two (2) pledge-Brother fellowships of which each Brother is required to attend at least one (1), 2c : One (1) pledge class service project lasting a minimum of five (5) hours, which shall not qualify unless approved by the Brotherhood, Section 6: Hazing : Hazing shall be defined as the placing of requirements upon the pledges which not, or have not previously been fulfilled by all Brothers of the Fraternity. There shall be no hazing or informal initiation at any time. Any mistreatment either mental or physical shall be considered in violation of the purpose and Bylaws of this Chapter, Standard Articles of Chapter Association, National Bylaws and the purpose of the National Fraternity, the Student policy of Ferrum College, and a violation of the Code of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Any Brother suspected, accused or caught in the act of hazing shall: Part 1 . Upon a violation the Brother shall be brought before the Executive Committee, who shall determine if they should be brought before the Brotherhood under the terms of a special session as explained in Article IX, Section 4. This will be a formal session. Part 2 . The President will call the special session to order. Explaining the nature of the session as being a formal hearing regarding the occurrence of hazing. Part 3 . The Sergeant-At-Arms shall present the charges against the Brother(s) in question, outlining the alleged event(s). Part 4 . The pledge(s) shall be allowed to speak on their own behalf for no longer than ten (10) minutes. Part 5 . The Chapter will be allowed to question the pledge(s) for no more than thirty (30) minutes. Part 6 . When the period of questioning has elapsed the pledge(s) shall be asked to exit the room and wait outside. Part 7 . In extreme cases of mistreatment or discomfort in which the pledge(s) does not feel comfortable speaking to the body or being within the same room as the accused Brother, the pledge shall be permitted to present a written affidavit orally on the pledge(s) behalf Part 8 . The Pledge Trainer shall introduce any witnesses if necessary. Part 9 . The witness(s) shall be permitted to present what they saw for a period of no more than Fifteen (15) minutes. Part 10 . The Chapter will be allowed to question the witness(s) for a period of time no more than thirty (30) minutes. Part 11 . When the period of questioning has elapsed the witness(s) shall be seated. Part 12 . The Sergeant-At-Arms will then bring the accused Brother(s) before the body. Part 13 . The accused Brother(s) will be allowed to speak or have another Brother testify on their behalf for no more than twenty (20) minutes. Part 14 . The Chapter will be allowed to question the accused Brother(s) for a period of time no more than twenty (20) minutes. Part 15 . When the period of questioning has elapsed the accused shall be asked to exit the room and wait outside. In extreme circumstances or if the body feels the accused Brother(s) would be a danger to others, he or she shall be escorted and guarded by a police officer. Part 16 . The Chapter will then deliberate and decide guilt. Guilt will be determined by a two-thirds majority vote taken by secret ballot. Part 17 . The votes will be counted by the Sergeant-At-Arms and verified by the Vice President of Membership. The Sergeant-At-Arms will inform the body of the results. Part 18 . If guilt has been determined, then a council consisting of the President, Pledge Trainer, Vice President of Service shall recommend punishment to the Brotherhood, who will evaluate the consul recommendations and decide upon an appropriate punishment. Part 19 . The accused party(s) shall then be returned to the Chapter room, where the Sergeant-At-Arms shall issue the verdict. Part 20 . Once the verdict has been issued, the council shall issue punishment. Part 21 . Punishment shall range from the issuance of additional service hours, monetary fines, formal written apology to the pledge(s) afflicted, to immediate expulsion from the Fraternity. Part 22 . If expulsion is issued the Chapter shall petition the National office to have a letter of expulsion affixed to the Brother(s) permanent record. See Article IV, Section I. Part 23 . If the Brother(s) in question are a member of the council or the Executive Committee, the next officer in line shall assume the vacant position for the duration of these proceedings. Part 24 . All hazing cases shall be reported to the Offices of Campus Police and Student Affairs as violations of the Student policy of Ferrum College. These shall also be reported to the Section Chair and Region Director of Alpha Phi Omega. Section 8: Vote-In : Two-thirds of the active membership of this Chapter must vote in favor of active membership being conferred on a pledge in order for such membership to be conferred. Section 9: Pledge Period : The period of pledging shall last no less than six (6) weeks and no more than ten (10) weeks. ARTICLE VI REGISTRATION OF PLEDGES AND ACTIVE MEMBERS The Pledge Trainer of this Chapter shall be responsible for the names of all pledges with the pledge applications and required pledge fee to be mailed to the National Office not later than ten (10) days after the pledge ceremony. The Vice President of Membership shall be responsible for the applications for active membership to be mailed with the required national active fees to the national office not later than ten (10) days after the initiation ceremony. Any initiation not followed by the registration of pledges or active members with the national office shall be null and void. ARTICLE VII OFFICERS Section 1: Officers : The officers of this Chapter shall be in order as follows: President, Vice President of Membership, Vice President of Service, Vice President of Fellowship, Secretary, Treasurer, Sergeant-at-Arms, Pledge Trainer, Historian, and Public Relations. Section 2: Officer Requirements : Those running for office of president must be a brother for at least one (1) semester see article 3, section 3. In the event of there being a larger number of brothers, no one brother can hold more than one position unless required because of special circumstances. Section 3: Duties of the President : The President shall: Part 1 . Serve as presiding officer at all Chapter meetings. Part 2 . Coordinate the functions of all Chapter officers and committees. Part 3 . Appoint such committees as are necessary to carry out the programs of this Chapter. Part 4 . Serve as ex officio member of all committees. Part 5 . Serve as Chairman of the Executive Committee. Part 6 . The President shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of their office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Section 4: Duties of the Vice President of Membership : The Vice President of Membership shall: Part 1 . Plan and coordinate the membership program of this Chapter. Part 2 . Serve as chairman of the Membership committee. Part 3 . Plan and coordinate Fraternity insignia orders. Part 4 . Act as counselor and chaplain for the Chapter; duties include get-well cards, birthdays, and assisting the President in dealing with the emotional needs of the Chapter. Part 5 . Shall be responsible for the applications for Active Membership to be mailed with the required national active fees to the National Office no later than ten (10) days after the initiation ceremony. Part 6 . Shall be responsible for the applications for Pledge Membership to be mailed to the National Office no later the Two (2) weeks after the third (3) Pledge Meeting, and for service hours. Part 7 . The Vice President of Membership shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of their office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Part 8 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Section 5: Duties of the Vice President of Service : The Vice President of Service shall: Part 1 . Plan and coordinate the service program of this Chapter. Part 2 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Part 3 . Serve as Chairman of the Service Committee. Part 4 . Plan and execute one large group service project a month, as well as one smaller group service project a month. Part 5 . The Vice President of Service shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of their office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Part 6 . Plan a variety of service projects that include the areas of community, national, campus, and fraternity. Part 7 . Be responsible for the chapters participation the Incentive Program of Ferrum College Part 8 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Section 6: Duties of the Vice President of Fellowship : The Vice President of Fellowship shall: Part 1 . Plan and coordinate all social programs of this Chapter. Part 2 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Part 3 . Serve as chairman of the fellowship Committee and any other appropriate committees. Part 4 . Plan and execute one large group Fellowship event and one minor fellowship event per month. Part 5 . The Vice President of Fellowship shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of their office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Section 7: Duties of the Secretary : The Secretary shall: Part 1 . Maintain and issue within 72 hours of adjournment an accurate record of the Chapter and Executive Committee meetings via email. Part 2 . Maintain and issue a Chapter directory each semester. Part 3 . Carry out all necessary correspondence on behalf of the Chapter. Part 4. Produce a hard copy of all minutes, to be kept with the secretary. Part 5 . The Secretary shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of his or her office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Part 6 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Section 8: Duties of the Treasurer : The Treasurer shall: Part 1 . Receive and disburse the funds of the Chapter. Part 2 . Maintain an accurate record of all Chapter transactions. Part 3 . Transmit to the National Office all fees, dues, and assessments as prescribed by the National Convention. Part 4 . Develop the Chapter budget, including dues of the next term, for approval by the Chapter by the third meeting of the term. Part 5 . Ensure that all financial forms and reports prescribed by federal, state, and college policies are filed as required. Part 6 . Serve as Chairman of the Fundraising Committee. Part 7 . Plan and execute at least one (1) fund-raisers with the potential for considerable return per semester. Considerable return will be defined as a 10% return of the overall monies spent on the fund-raiser itself. Part 8 . The Treasurer shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of their office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Part 9 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Section 9: Duties of the Sergeant-At-Arms : The Sergeant-at-Arms shall: Part 1 . Ensure that the Chapter is operated in conformity with the principles set forth in the National Bylaws, the Standard Articles of Association, and these bylaws. Part 2 . Prepare, distribute and collect ballots at Chapter meetings. Part 3 . Ensure that correct parliamentary procedure is followed at all Chapter meetings. Part 4 . Serve as Chairman of the Bylaw Committee. This committee shall conduct a yearly review of these Bylaws and to familiarize the Chapter. Part 5 : In a timely manner, bring all issues of chapter procedure and conduct before the Executive Committee. Part 6 . The Sergeant at Arms shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of their office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Part 7 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Section 10: Duties of the Pledge Trainer : The Pledge Trainer shall: Part 1 . Plan and coordinate the pledging program of this Chapter according to the guidelines set forth in Article V of these Bylaws, and according to the National Pledging Standards as found in the Pledge Manual Part 2 . Direct actions of all pledge associated positions Part 3. The Pledge Trainer shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of their office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Part 4 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Section 11: Duties of the Historian : The Historian shall: Part 1 . Compile and maintain a Chapter scrapbook. Part 2 . Update the Chapter history Part 3 . Coordinate all Chapter displays Part 4 . Be responsible for the Traditions of the Fraternity Part 5 . Take photographs at Chapter functions and service projects Part 6 . The Historian shall have the freedom to undertake all measures deemed necessary and proper for the execution of their office, provided that these measures do not violate Chapter bylaws, or contradict a two-thirds majority vote of the active membership. Any such measures must be reported to the Brotherhood at the next regular Chapter meeting. Part 7 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I. Section 12: Public Relations : Part 1 . Compile and write the Organizational News article weekly for publication on our Alpha Phi Omega web site at www.ferrum.edu/apo http://www.ferrum.edu/apo Part 2. Compile and write a Chapter News Letter to send to the alumni Part 3 . Perform all presidential functions in the absence of those ahead in the order as presented in article VII section I.
Section 13: Executive Committee : The Executive committee shall: Part 1 . Consist of elected officers of this Chapter, the chairman of the advisory committee as an ex officio member. Part 2. Compile and write a Chapter News Letter to send to the alumni. Part 2 . Appoint any necessary positions not outlined in bylaws, as approved by the Brotherhood. Part 3 . Meet once a month as deemed by the committee, Part 4 . Approve an assistant Pledge Trainer to assist the Pledge Trainer in their duties. Section 14: Installation : The Chapter officers shall be installed one week prior to the last Brotherhood meeting of the fall semester. If a new officer is absent, he will be installed at the next meeting. Section 15: Removal From Office: In the event that any officer acts in a manner that does not follow the Cardinal Principles of Alpha Phi Omega, or they fail to execute the duties of their office then they shall be removed from office after having been found guilty of such conduct by the Brotherhood. The procedure shall be as follows: Part 1 . If any Officer is brought up on charges by the Sergeant-At-Arms with the approval of the Executive Committee, they shall be notified immediately of the charges. Part 2 . No less than Two (2) days shall be given before the Accused Officer is brought before the Brotherhood in a special session of which that is the sole concern. Part 3 . When a special session is held then, in front of the Membership, excluding pledges, the charges against that officer shall be stated and they shall be given 15 minutes to defend themselves where upon the Brotherhood, shall have the right to question the Accused Officer. Part 4 . After all queries are answered the Officer is excused from the room, where upon the charges and the defense shall be discussed at a length no longer than is necessary to come to justice. Part 5 . The Sergeant-Of-Arms shall stay in the room and speak on the rights of the accused. Part 6 . A secret ballot vote shall be taken and a two-thirds majority shall be necessary to remove the Brother from his Office. If two-thirds shall not be met then the Brotherhood shall continue on as it had previously. Part 7 . If an Officer is found guilty then they shall be expelled from Office, but shall continue to hold Active Membership unless they are brought up on suspension charges. Part 8 . Immediately upon the removal of one Officer the next lower ranking Officer shall hold that position pro temp until a special election can be held. ARTICLE VIII ELECTIONS Section 1: Election Meeting : All Elections shall be held at the Annual Election meeting. This meeting shall not be held until a minimum of a two weeks notice has been given. The meeting shall be held prior to the end of the fall semester. Section 2: Secret Ballot : All members shall vote by secret ballot and proxy voting is not allowed. Officers will be elected by a simple majority vote where Quorum has been achieved. Section 3: Vacancy: If a vacancy occurs during an officer's term of office, the vacancy shall be filled as soon as possible. In the event of a vacancy in the middle of the term a special election will be held, the special election shall be cared out in the same manor as the yearly elections. Section 4: Enumeration: The results of chapter votes on all officer elections shall be counted by the Sergeant-At-Arms excepting posts for which the Sergeant-At-Arms is running and verified by one or more ineligible seniors. The Sergeant-at-Arms shall then record the results in the minutes of the Election Meeting. No results shall be entered into the verification of one or more ineligible seniors. ARTICLE IX MEETINGS Section 1: Regular Meetings : The regular meetings of the Chapter shall be held in such a place and at such a time as the Executive Committee shall direct. Section 2: Special Meetings : Special meetings shall be called by the President or the Executive Committee on their own or by request of one third of the active members in the Chapter, to be held within fifteen (15) days after the request. A notice of all special meetings shall contain a statement of the purpose of the meeting or the special business to be transacted. Section 3: Quorum : A quorum at regular, special, or Executive Committee meetings shall be 75% of the members eligible to vote. Section 4: Recording Votes: The Sergeant-At-Arms shall, at the request of any Brother, record for the Secretary the results of any votes. The Secretary shall then enter the results into the minutes. ARTICLE X COMMITTEES Section 1: Committees: All committee decisions, such as dates, times, and spending limits, must be reported during the next regular Brotherhood meeting and are subject to Chapter approval. A chair shall be voted in by the committee and they are to be responsible for reporting memberships as well as any new business to the Brotherhood at regular meetings. Section 2: Membership: All Active Brothers who are not Officers shall be required to join at least one committee. Part 1: The selection of new committees shall commence at the start of each semester. Part2: Active Brothers shall be given the opportunity to join committees with seniors given the first choice, junior's second choice, etc. Part 3: Those Brothers currently sitting on committees may remain on those committees if they so desire. Part 4: The Committee Chair shall set the Committee attendance policy. Part 5: Due to the unique nature of the Rush Committee, its members will be expected to serve on at least one other committee at times when the Rush Committee is not active. Section 3: Special Committees: Special Committees may be created during a regular Brotherhood meeting by a motion that specifies purpose, duties, duration, and Chair. Section 4: Standing Committees: The Standing Committees shall be the Service Committee, the Membership Committee, the Fellowship Committee, the Fundraising Committee, the Bylaws Committee, the Rush Committee and the Advisor Liaison Committee. Section 5: Service Committee: The Service Committee shall be responsible for the planning and the execution of all Service Projects as well as any duties prescribed by the Executive Committee. Section 6: Membership Committee: The Membership Committee shall be responsible for the records of attendance of the Membership as well as the determination of what shall be an excused absence. Any other duties shall be prescribed by the Executive Committee. Section 7: Fellowship Committee: The Fellowship Committee shall plan and execute all Fellowship events and determine the arrangements for Banquet. Any other duties shall be prescribed by the Executive Committee. Section 8: Fundraising Committee: The Fundraising Committee shall plan and execute all fund-raisers for the Brotherhood. Any other duties shall be prescribed by the Executive Committee. Section 9: Bylaws Committee: The Bylaws committee shall review these bylaws annually and suggest any changes that may be necessary. All amendments to these Bylaws must first be presented to the Bylaws Committee for review and discussion prior to introduction to the Brotherhood. Section 10: Rush Committee: All activities pertaining to Rush and any other duties prescribed by the Executive Committee. Section 11: Advisor Liaison Committee : The Advisor Liaison Committee shall plan and execute all Brother-Advisor events and select new Advisors for recommendation to the Brotherhood for Advisor elections. ARTICLE XI DUES, FEES AND ASSESSMENTS Section 1: Active membership fee : Each person becoming an Active Brother of this Chapter shall be required to remit a National Active Membership Fee upon initiation. Section 2: Membership: For the purpose of Chapter dues, membership in this Chapter shall mean to include any Active or Associate Brother. Section 3: Dues : Chapter Dues will be determined for the following semester and approved by the membership at the second meeting of the term. Life members are required to pay Chapter dues if still participating as an Active Brother. ARTICLE XII ADVISOR REQUIREMENTS Section 1: Each Advisor shall attend at least three (3) Brotherhood functions during each semester. Section 2: The advisors should form an Advisory Committee that should meet once a semester and as called for by the Advisory Chairman or Brotherhood President. Advisory Chairman will be nominated and voted on by the entire Brotherhood at the same time, as Chapter Officers and this Chairman shall attend as many Executive Committee Meetings as possible. Section 3: The term of office for Advisors shall be one (1) year with an unlimited number of terms permitted. Elections will be held annually on the same days as Chapter Officer Elections. Section 4: Advisors shall have all the rights and privileges of Active members, excluding the right to vote, hold office other than that of Advisory Chairman, to hold Committee Chairmanships and to have Little Brothers. Additional duties of an Advisor include making appointments and conducting pledge interviews. ARTICLE XIII TRADITIONS Section 1: This Chapter shall value Modern Tradition as if it were policy. ARTICLE XIV PERMANENT MAILING ADDRESS This Chapter shall maintain a permanent mailing address in the form of a post office box. This address shall be: Alpha Phi Omega This Chapter shall maintain a permanent E-Mailing address. This address shall be: apo@ferrum.edu <mailto:apo@ferrum.edu> This Chapter shall maintain a permanent web site. This web site shall be: www.ferrum.edu/apo ARTICLE XV AMENDMENTS These Bylaws shall be amended if there is a three-fourths majority vote cast by the active membership in favor of amending the constitution. Any proposed amendment must be presented to the Bylaws committee for review and discussion and then presented to the brotherhood one week before the vote is taken. All amendments must be submitted to the National Fraternity. No amendments shall violate the National Bylaws, Standard Articles of Association or Ferrum College policy. |
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