Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
BYLAW I Membership A. Qualifications
Section 1 A female student currently enrolled at Texas A&M International University, in good academic standing, not enrolled for the sole purpose of establishing membership eligibility. Section 2 A student who has successfully completed the chapter’s L.I.N.K.S. program for new membership.
Section 3 A student who has at least completed 12 semester hours at a university or college campus, as a full time college student. A. Prospective members seeking membership within the sorority whom have obtained their 12 credit hours at a university through a dual enrollment program may be eligible with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
B. Designations
Section 1 Active
Section 1.01 A person who has successfully completed the chapter’s program of new membership.
Section 1.02 Active members of Sigma Delta Lambda shall include those who fulfill all membership requirements by participating in sorority activities, paying dues, maintaining the required 2.5 GPA, completing all fundraising projects per semester, and participating in a minimum of 20 community service hours per semester and 1 At-Risk Youth service event per month or the required number as deemed by the executive board per semester.
Section 1.03 All active members are required to attend all general meetings with the exception of review sessions and/or exams during the scheduled meeting time. All other reasons shall also be approved by the Executive Board. A. A member who fails to bring their weekly journal (binder) with Chapter and Sorority Bylaws and Constitution will be assessed at $3.00 fine. B. A member who has claimed active status, and has missed 3 consecutive meetings, [whether excused or unexcused,] shall be placed under review by Executive Board and a sanction shall be decided by the prospective board.
Section 1.04 Active members who do not participate in all fundraisers during the academic semester will be assessed a $15.00 fine.
Section 1.05 Active members who commit to a fundraising event, but do not attend, will be assessed a $15.00 fine.
Section 1.06 All members who do not give a three-day notice prior to an absence to any weekly meeting, mandatory or committed event, through a written document, will result in a $ 10.00 fine per event, with the exception of an inevitable emergency (said emergencies are under the discretion of the J.P. Ethics Chair).
A. Active members that do not participate in mandatory events will be assessed a $15 fine by the respective officer or chair.
Section 1.07 All active members who are 5 minutes late after 3 incidents will be assessed a $3 fine, without prior notice. If the active member gives legitimate (ie. Academic related or emergency, etc.) reason prior to or after the incident the fine will be removed.
Section 1.08 Members who fail to follow the dress code (i.e. business casual, bearing sorority badge, greek letter shirts) for any Sigma Delta Lambda event (i.e. initiation, meetings, etc.) will be assessed a $10 fine
Section 1.09- All active members who do not give a three-day notice prior to leaving a meeting before it has been adjourned, through a written document will result in a $3.00 fine, with the exception of an inevitable emergency.
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Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
Section 1.10- Each member of Sigma Delta Lambda Gamma Chapter must abide by the following governing entities and documents of the sorority: Sorority Constitution & Bylaws, Risk Reduction Program, New Member Program, Judicial Board and System, Moral and Ethical Code, and any other Sigma Delta Lambda official documents.
Section 2 Inactive
Section 2.01 A person who has completed her tenure as new member, served at least one semester as an Active member, and who is unable to fulfill chapter requirements set for active members.
Section 2.02 Per Sigma Delta Lambda Executive Council Bylaws, Section 2.02, person(s) wishing to gain voluntary Inactive status must request such standing in the form of a letter which outlines her reasons for such a request. All requests should be addressed to the Chapter’s Executive Board and received before the chapter’s third regular meeting of any semester unless an emergency arises.
Section 2.03 Persons requesting Inactive status after the third meeting (per semester) will be assessed a $100.00 fine.
Section 2.04 Per Sigma Delta Lambda Executive Council Bylaws, Section 2.03, involuntary inactive status will result from academic difficulty. Members with a GPA below a 2.5 will be automatically placed on inactive status. The member is required to raise her GPA to a 2.5 before reapplying for active status. The member must also meet with the academic chair twice a semester for consultation if she wishes to return to active status.
Section 2.05 Per Sigma Delta Lambda Executive Council Bylaws, Section 2.04, the decision of the Executive Board should be reached within an appropriate time period, and the person shall be notified in writing by the chapter’s, Executive Board. Approved “Inactive” status is contingent upon the decision of the chapter’s Executive Board, and such a request may be denied. There is to be no participation in chapter meetings, activities or mandatory events and no dues paid by Inactive members. A. An inactive member however may request permission from the respective Executive Board in order to attend closed Greek sponsored events and/or activities. Such request is to be done through a written format.
Section 2.06 Per Sigma Delta Lambda Executive Council Bylaws, Section 2.05, the inactive member may not participate in the big-sister /little sister portion of the New Member program.
Section 2.07 Per Sigma Delta Lambda Executive Council Bylaws, Section 2.06, any member may remain inactive for no longer than 2 semesters in her collegiate career. These semesters may or may not be consecutive. The member must return after the third semester.
Section 2.08 Any Executive Board member going Inactive during her term will be assessed a $100 dollar fine. Failure to comply will result in being denied a change of status. The fine shall be waived under extreme circumstances and by approval of Executive Board.
Section 2.09 Failure to meet these conditions may result in automatic expulsion.
Section 3 Off-Campus
Section 3.01 A person who has completed her tenure as new member, served at least one semester as an Active member, and who is only able to fulfill half of chapter requirements set for active members.
Section 3.02 Off campus members must fulfill all responsibilities set forth by the Chapter, including a minimal attendance of at least one meeting per month, attendance of all mandatory events, attendance to at least two fundraisers, completion of at least half of the chapter’s designated community service hours for active members, and payment of all dues.
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Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
Section 3.03 Off campus members that do not participate in mandatory events will be assessed a $10 fine per event with the exception of an inevitable circumstance.
Section 3.04 Any Executive Board or Cabinet member going off campus during her term forfeits her position for the remainder of her term, unless the Executive Board grants her special permission to hold her position. A. Any Executive member or Cabinet member going off-campus during her term will be assessed a $50 dollar fine. Failure to comply will result in being denied a change of status. The fine shall be waived under extreme circumstances and by approval of Executive Board.
Section 3.05 Off-campus members may not hold more than one cabinet position unless appointed by chapter’s Executive Board.
Section 4 Re-Activation
Section 4.01 In order for a sister to re-activate her active membership, from “Inactive” or “Off-campus” status, she must submit a formal letter of her intention to re-activate herself to the Chapter’s Executive Board by the third chapter meeting of any academic semester, pay all dues owed to the Sorority (if any), and fulfill any duties as described in the chapter’s Bylaws.
Section 4.02 The Chapter’s Executive Board shall review the letter of intent to approve re-activation. The executive board will notify the member, in writing, of her new status and of any outstanding dues, requirements or required hours.
Section 4.03- After re-activation a sister cannot be nominated to hold either an Executive Board position or an Elected Cabinet position.
Section 5 Probationary Sister
Per Sigma Delta Lambda Executive Council Bylaws, Section 5
Section 5.01 A sister who has been found in violation of the Sigma Delta Lambda Executive Council, or Chapter’s Constitutions, Bylaws, and/or code of Ethics, has a GPA below a 2.5 but above or equal to a 2.0, or those sisters who have not fulfilled community service requirements.
Section 5.02 Any sister found in violation of academic or community service requirements will be notified by the Chapter’s Executive Board and placed on automatic probation. Probation continues until proof of meeting these requirements is given to the Chapter’s Executive Board.
Section 5.03 The chapter’s executive board, academic chair, community service chair, or Ethics chair, may initiate any move for probation against any sister at any executive/ cabinet meeting. A 3/4 majority vote of all executive and cabinet members present, must be received to place a sister on probation. The Executive and cabinet members, must meet quorum in order to vote.
Section 5.04 Appeals may be made to the Executive Board. All appeal decisions by the Executive board are final.
Section 5.05 All appeals and cases should be maintained under confidentiality by the Executive board and the participating Chapter.
Section 5.06 In order for a probationary sister to become active, she must completed her term of probation (which will be decided at the end of the trial by the Executive board, by simple majority vote), and must fulfill any duties as described in the Chapter’s bylaws, or Executive Constitution.
Section 5.07 Members holding provisional status shall not run for an Executive Board or Cabinet position.
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Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
Section 5.08 Each sister found in breach of confidentiality will face consequences as stated under by law 4 section 4
Section 6 Expelled Sister
Section 6.01 Please refer to the Executive Bylaws; Section 6.00, Section 6.01-6.13, and follow the procedures listed.
Section 7 Transfer Members
Section 7.01 Affiliates, upon transferring from a campus where there is a chapter, colony or club of Sigma Delta Lambda, must follow the Executive Council guidelines set forth in the Executive Council Constitution and/or Bylaws.
Section 8 Alumnus
Section 8.01 All guidelines set forth by the Sigma Delta Lambda Executive Bylaws, Section 9.00 shall be followed.
Section 8.02 In order to receive Early Alumni status, one must fulfill two semesters as an active member, and pay all fines and debts to the sorority before being reviewed by the Executive Board.
Section 8.03 An Alumnae member should only serve as a guide/mentor through giving advice or voicing opinions, never undermining a chapter’s decision.
Section 8.04 Each potential graduate should have paid any remaining balance one month before graduating in order to receive her graduation gifts
Section 9 Married or Pregnant Student Members
Section 9.01 A married student member may elect either collegiate (active or off-campus) or alumna membership status. As a collegiate member she must fulfill all local and Executive responsibilities and is entitled to all the privileges of collegiate chapter membership. As an alumna member she is dropped from the collegiate chapter roll. A. If a married student collegiate member choses to elect the status of alumna member she must present legal documentation (i.e. marriage license) signed by both parties as well as a judge and/or an official member (i.e. priest)
Section 9.02 A new member who has successfully completed the new member program while pregnant is not qualified to claim change in status until she has completed her first semester as a full active member.
Section 10 Graduate Students
Section 10.01 A graduate student may affiliate with Gamma chapter by invitation.
Section 11 Honorary Sister/ Brother
Section 11.01 Any woman/man, other than undergraduate students, who has helped the chapter to excel in the goals of Sigma Delta Lambda through their outstanding contribution to the Sorority.
Section 11.02 In order for a person to be accepted as an honorary sister/brother, they must have completed the following: A. Receive a nomination by any active member in good standing with the Sorority. B. Receive no less than 3/4th’s majority vote of the sisters present at a regular or special meeting.
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Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
Section 12 Requirements of a Big Sister
Section 12.01 To avoid over spending throughout the New Member process and in order to maintain equality amongst the new members, a big sister will have the following set budget for initiation gifts: $35-50 max.
BYLAW II New Members
Section 1 New Members Section 1 A person who is going through the Executive L.I.N.K.S. new member program.
Section 1.05 No active member is allowed to have obscene or provocative photos including photos with alcohol on any social network group. She will be given 2 warnings the second will include a fine with the ethics policy and will meet with the ethics chair to discuss further measures.
Section 2 All new members must comply with the new member program and fulfill all new member requirements.
Section 3 All new members must submit a recent copy of their academic transcript. BYLAW III Academic Program
Section 1 A copy of the current Academic program shall be given to all members of Sigma Delta Lambda.
Section 2 To support member’s academics the sorority shall adhere to the following: 1. A maximum of 3 official sorority activities during the school week, with the exception of recruitment. 2. Social activities planned only for weekend nights. 3. No official sorority commitments during midterms. 4. No official sorority social events interrupting midterms or finals.
Section 3 A class may not be taken during regular sorority meeting times, once it has been proposed and finalized, unless it is a requirement for graduation under your degree plan.
Section 4 Each active/off campus member, with any status, must submit a copy of her official grade transcript to the Academic Officer. †† Failure to do so will result in a $10 fine, with a fine of $5 accumulating every week there after. If the transcript is not turned in with in three weeks, the member will be subject to an Executive Board Review. †† Each member’s transcripts will be kept under lock and key, and will only be seen by the President and Academic Officer.
Section 5 Academic Calendar
Section 5.01 The Academic Officer shall make a semester academic calendar containing, at minimum, the following: 1. 1st day of classes 2. Last day of classes 3. Last day to add/drop/withdraw/ from classes 4. Midterm exams 5. Reading days, dead week, study days 6. Final exams 7. Commencement exercices 8. Enrichment activities 9. School holidays Revised (April 14, 2015) Emily Lerma-Parliamentarian/J.P. Ethics Sigma Delta Lambda-Gamma Chapter - Page 5
Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
10. The dates that transcripts from the previous semester are due to the Academic Officer 11. The date that monthly study hours are due to the Academic Officer
Dates from the academic calendar should also be given to the Executive Council Board, so that they may be included in the sorority Master Calendar.
Section 6 Study Hours
Section 6.01 Each member of Sigma Delta Lambda will be required to complete monthly study hours. †† These hours are defined as follows: A. No rounding of GPA’s will be accepted 1. GPA 3.6-4.0; 10 hours per month 2. GPA 3.0-3.5; 15 hours per month 3. GPA 2.5-2.9; 20 hours per month
Section 6.02 As part of the monthly study hours, each member will be required to spend a minimum of two hours a week studying in a group with sorority members at the designated day, time, and place. The dates and times may vary from semester to semester. The number of sorority members that constitute a group are two people.
Section 6.03 Members whose GPA is 3.5 or higher will be excused from the weekly study sessions, after their required monthly study hours are completed.
Section 6.04 Failure to complete the two (2) hour weekly sorority study sessions will result in a $5 fine per week that the hours are incomplete. The member will also have to make up the hours the following week.
Section 6.05 All members who submit study hours will be under review pending conformation from the Academics Chair that such hours were completed. Failure to complete the monthly study hours will result in a $10 fine. The member will also have to make up the hours the following month.
Section 6.06 Members who do not submit their monthly study hours, on the day they are due will be assessed a $5.00 fine.
Section 6.07 Members in consistent breach of the study hours will be subject to an Executive Board review.
Section 7 Members in Poor Scholastic Standing
Section 7.01 Any person who falls below the 2.5 required GPA will:
Be put on a study plan developed by the academic chair and the member, to be approved by the Executive Board If after the 1st semester on the study plan, the member’s GPA does not return to a 2. 5 or above, she will then go on probation for the following semester. She is allowed to participate in all Sigma Delta Lambda events, and is treated as an active member. If, after a semester on probation, the member’s GPA is still below a 2.5, she will automatically be put on inactive status. The Executive Board will then meet to discuss the next steps for this member, and how to help her with her Academics. The member will remain inactive until she raises her GPA to 2.5 or above.
Section 7.02: Although a member or prospective member may indicate she expects a grade change that will put her in good academic standing, she must follow the steps for those in poor academic standing as long as her official records indicate she has grades that put her in poor academic standing.
Section 7.03 Any member who fails to maintain the sorority academic requirement during her term of office will not
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Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter be allowed to run for a position, or hold an appointed position, in the upcoming elections.
Section 7.04 Members in poor scholastic standing will be required to maintain more study hours, which will be part of the study plan derived by the member and the Academic Chair.
Section 7.05 A grade check will be made during the middle of the semester, for those members in poor scholastic standing. †† These reports will follow University guidelines, and not violate any University rules.
Section 8 Academic Fines
Section 8.01 All fines assessed by the Academic Chair will become part of her budget and used as she deems fit.
Section 8.02 (Repeat of Bylaw III, Section 6.04): Failure to complete the two (2) hour weekly sorority study sessions will result in a $5 fine per week that the hours are incomplete. The member will also have to make up the hours the following week.
Section 8.03 (Repeat of Bylaw III, Section 6.05): Failure to complete the monthly study hours will result in a$10 fine. †† The member will also have to make up the hours the following month.
Section 8.04 (Repeat of Bylaw III, Section 4): Section 4 Each member must submit a copy of her official grade transcript to the Academic Officer. †† Failure to do so will result in a $10 fine, with a fine of $5 accruing every week thereafter. If the transcript is not turned in within three weeks, the member will be subject to an Executive Board Review. †† Each member’s transcripts will be kept under lock and key, and will only be seen by the President and Academic Officer.
Section 8.05 Members who do not submit their monthly study hours, on the day they are due will be assessed a $5.00 fine
BYLAW IV Ethical Policy
Section 1 All Sigma Delta Lambda members and prospective members must represent themselves and the sorority in an appropriate manner. Sigma Delta Lambda members and prospective members must show pride in themselves and in the sorority in the following ways: A. All Sigma Delta Lambda members and prospective members will show respect toward one another, regardless of any personal issues/disagreements at all sorority functions and/or public events (i.e. parties, unofficial parties, and unexpected encounters). B. While wearing sorority letters or at any official SDL event no member shall: 1. Kiss another person (other than greeting a person) 2. Engage in any explicit sexual contact or gesture not including dancing, holding hands or hugging.
Section 2 All members and prospective members of Sigma Delta Lambda shall abide by the state, local, and university policy concerning alcohol and illegal drugs. A. No prospective member of Sigma Delta Lambda may consume alcohol. In the case this rule is violated the prospective member will be subject to review by the Executive Board. B. No alcohol shall be served to minors at any Sigma Delta Lambda function, activity, or program. C. No alcohol shall be purchased with Sigma Delta Lambda funds. D. Members and prospective members acting in an inappropriate manner due to intoxication shall be subjected to an Executive Board review. E. All Sigma Delta Lambda members shall attend an alcohol awareness program each semester organized by the Ethics Officer.
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Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
F. Underage drinking is not allowed by any member. If a member is found to be underage drinking the consequences will be set forth by the current JP Ethics.
Section 3 Members and prospective members attending official meetings of Sigma Delta Lambda shall: A. Respect and listen to other members opinions B. Respect duties given to all officers C. Attend meetings prepared D. “Meeting” shall include, but may not be limited to, Executive Board meetings, sorority meetings, Sigma Delta Lambda sponsored or co-sponsored function, parties, service projects, social gatherings or fundraising events.
Section 4 Consequences for failing to abide by the Sigma Delta Lambda Ethical Policy shall be as follows: A. Any member not following the policy will be given a warning and be required to submit a written report explaining the questionable behavior to the Executive Board. B. After reviewing the report the Executive Board shall determine the consequence(s). This may include, but may not be limited to, one or more of the following: 1. A fine, in which the amount will be determined by the Executive Board as a direct consequence of the offense. 2. A formal letter of apology to the Executive Board and other sorority sisters as deemed fit by the Executive Board. 3. Extra community service hours 4. Probation 5. Resignation of sorority letters or prolonged probation C. Any prospective member failing to comply with the Ethical Policy may ultimately be denied membership into the sorority, or refused continuation of the membership process.
Section 5 All members shall partake in the Risk Reduction Program set forth by the Executive Board.
Section 6 No initiated member is allowed to have obscene or provocative photos including photos with alcohol on any social network, group, or site (i.e. Facebook, twitter, instagram, etc.). She will be given a warning. Upon the second incident, there will be a fine set in accordance with the ethics policy and will meet with the ethics chair to discuss further measures. C. This applies to any photos depicting rituals.
Section 7 No initiated member will display Sigma Delta Lambda’s hand sign in a location specifically designated for the consumption of alcohol (i.e. bars, pubs, etc). She will be given a warning. Upon the second incident, there will be a fine set in accordance with the ethics policy and will meet with the ethics chair to discuss further measures
Section 8 Any member found bashing, derogatorily criticizing or spreading false accusations/ lies on any social network site (i.e. Myspaces, youtube, tumblr, Facebook, twitter, etc.) or through public documents (i.e. e-mails, blogs etc.) about the sorority as a whole or about an individual sister will be subjected to judicial conduct review.
Section 9 Ethics Fines
Section 9.01 All fines assessed by the Ethics Chair shall be deposited into the ethics account and used as she deems fit.
Section 9.02 Consuming alcohol while wearing letters, before or during any official SDL function will result in a fine. Legal aged sisters will be assessed a $50 fine, while sisters under the legal age of 21 will be assessed a $100 fine.
Section 9.03 Members involved in any physical and/or violent behavior with another member or prospective member of Sigma Delta Lambda shall be assessed a $100 fine. Any physical and/or violent behavior with a person who is not affiliated with Sigma Delta Lambda shall be assessed a $25 fine.
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Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
Section 9.04 Members showing or performing explicit sexual contact and/or gesture will be assessed a $20 fine.
Section 9.05 Members missing the Alcohol Awareness Event will be assessed a $20 fine.
Section 9.06 All violations of the Ethical Policy are subject to review by the Ethics Officer and Executive Board.
BYLAW V Community Service
Section 1 Each active member of the sorority is required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of community service per semester and 1 At-Risk Youth service event per month, according to the university academic calendar, or the required number as deemed by the Executive board.
Section 2 Community Service Fines
Section 2.01 Failure to complete the semester hours will result in a $15 fine. Also, hours not completed will have to be made up the following semester.
Section 2.02 Members who volunteer to provide transportation and then cannot, must give all sisters she was supposed to give a ride to, a two-day notice. Failure to do this will result in a $10 fine.
Section 2.03 Members who commit to participating in a community service project have to give at least a three-day notice if she can no longer participate in the project. Failure to give advanced notice will be left to the community chair’s discretion.
Section 2.04 Members who commit to a community service event in which a required number of participants is needed, and fail to attend must find an alternative member to take her spot or she will be assessed a $20.00 fine due to the significance of numbers.
Section 2.05 Members who fail to turn in their community service hours by the due date set forth by the community service chair will be assessed a $5 fine. BYLAW VI Treasury Policy Section 1 Dues
Section 1.01 Dues shall be collected in full at the beginning of each semester unless prior arrangements are made with the Treasurer.
Section 2 Fines
Section 2.01 All fines need to be given to the Treasurer within three days of the violation. Once the Treasurer distributes fines they must be paid within two weeks unless prior notice is given or agreement among Treasurer and member has been reached.
Section 2.02 A fine will be voided if the corresponding officer fining a member fails to notify the Treasurer within 3 days of the member’s violation.
Section 2.03 All fines shall be cleared within two weeks after receiving a notice. A member can establish a payment plan; if the payment plan isn’t followed then the member shall be placed on the Debt Committee. Revised (April 14, 2015) Emily Lerma-Parliamentarian/J.P. Ethics Sigma Delta Lambda-Gamma Chapter - Page 9
Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
Section 3 Debts
Section 3.01 All debts with the chapter shall be cleared before the second to last meeting of the semester in order to be granted any status (active, off-campus, early alumni, alumna, probationary, inactive).
Section 3.02 All shirts paid by the organization must be picked up within 3days from the specified location. If not, the member must pay for the shirt. Section 4
Consequences for failing to abide by the Sigma Delta Lambda Treasury Policy shall be as follows: A. Any member not following the treasury policy will submit a formal letter to the Executive Board explaining their reasons for not following the treasury policy. 1. After the Executive Board reviews the letter, a grace period will then be established for the member. 2. During the grace period, a payment plan or the possibility of serving in the Debt Committee shall be discussed between the member and the treasurer.
Section 5 Debt Committee
Section 5.01: A sister who is unable to clear her debt before the end of the academic year with the treasurer will be placed on the Debt Committee at the discretion and by the recommendation of Executive Board at the end of the Spring Semester. A. The debt committee is only applicable to assist sisters with the clearance of dues. This excludes fines and/or paraphernalia purchases.
Section 5.02: In order to be eligible to be placed on the Debt Committee a sister must: Have a debt of two semesters worth of dues Be unable to clear such debt because of mitigating circumstances
Section 5.03If a sister is placed on the Debt Committee only half of her debt will be considered to be cleared by performing an extra hour of community service per every $1 owed. However a member may only be allowed to clear half of her debt during the summer.
Section 5.04 If a member who is in the Debt Committee fails to abide by the guidelines stated in the sections above, the executive board will then enforce the following consequences: 1. Probation 2. Resignation 3. Termination
BYLAW VII Powers and Duties of Elected Officers
A. Executive Board
Section 1 Powers and duties of the President shall consist of the following: 1. Official representative of the Gamma Chapter 2. Overseeing all sorority functions 3. Calling meetings to order 4. Serving as primary contact 5. Making a final decision in the event of a tie Revised (April 14, 2015) Emily Lerma-Parliamentarian/J.P. Ethics Sigma Delta Lambda-Gamma Chapter - Page 10
Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
6. Assures that all officers and chairmen are carrying out their duties 7. Responsible for corresponding with the Executive Board 8. Coordinate officer transition and training 9. Motivate Chapter to strive for standards of excellence. 10. Shall be responsible to appoint the “Appointed Cabinet Members”
Section 2 Powers and duties of the Vice President shall consist of the following: 1. Presiding over meetings in the absence of the President 2. Serving as secondary contact for the sorority 3. Assisting President in presidential matters 4. Assist in compiling Risk Reduction plan 5. Audit Treasurer monthly 6. Assure that all members review and understand the Executive Judiciary System 7. Maintain probationary files
Section 3 Powers and Duties of the Treasurer shall consist of the following: 1. Supervise all financial affairs of the Chapter 2. Collect fees and disburse monies 3. Record all transactions made 4. Prepare and implement a Chapter budget 5. Keep written and up to date records of each member’s account activity 6. Report financial delinquency to vice president 7. After each purpose withdrawal of purchase she should announce the project estimate of spent and project work with Fundraiser, set annual budget breakage. 8. Keep written documents of all individual fines 9. Give document of fines to treasurer and let her know when they are paid
Section 4 Powers and duties of the Secretary shall consist of the following: 1. Records and submits minutes of all Chapter unless arranged by Executive Board 2. Maintain an accurate attendance and membership record 3. Check sorority mail 4. Responsible for all correspondence with membership 5. Shall keep in contact with the academic chair to work on an academic calendar 6. Meeting minutes should be submitted to active members no later than two days after the meeting. A two dollar fine will be charged for each day it is late.
Section 5 Powers and duties of Parliamentarian/JP Ethics shall keep order, summon members, (warnings) keep track of the meeting attire, inventory of supplies (fundraising, cubicles, events etc.), and will monitor member absences. 1. Keep order during any scheduled meeting, including Executive Board meetings. 2. Summon members to meetings or Judicial Review meetings and give warnings for non-compliance’s of rules and regulations set by officers and sorority constitution and bylaws. 3. Keep track of the meeting attire 4. Keep accountability of inventory of supplies (fundraising, cubicles, events, etc.) 5. Will monitor member absences to all sorority functions. 6. Be responsible for enforcing proper ethical conduct among members. 7. Leads the committee that hears and adjudicates all cases pertaining to sorority members 8. Enforces the ethical policy 9. Will make sure the Executive Judiciary System is followed in case of an extreme event 10. Being responsible for enforcing proper ethical conduct among members
B. Elected Cabinet Officers
Section 5 Powers and duties of the Academic Chair shall be as follows:
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Sigma Delta Lambda Sorority, Inc. Gamma Chapter
1. Ensuring that sorority members and prospective members are aware of their scholastic responsibilities 2. Responsible for ensuring that the sorority properly addresses academic achievement and implement enrichment programming 3. Be knowledgeable about all Sigma Delta Lambda policies and procedures regarding academics 4. Prepare an academic performance of the sorority at the end of each semester 5. Maintain a listing of the major of all members and prospective members. This list can be given to all members and prospective members 6. Educate sorority members and prospective members, on the university resources (i.e. tutoring, career center, learning skills center, undergraduate writing center, etc.) 7. Enforce sorority academic laws 8. Inform the Executive board about members in poor scholastic standing 9. Supervise individual study plans for members in poor scholastic standing 10. Be aware of each members academic progress throughout the semester and arrange a conference with anyone experiencing academic problems 11. Maintain an ongoing recognition program for members and prospective members 12. Review academic rules and suggest revisions when appropriate 13. Maintain accurate record of fines, grades, academic hours, sorority/individual GPA and sorority progress. †† In order for the Academic Chair and the President to view official grade reports, all active/off-campus members will need to sign a release form. 14. In the case the sorority has an advisor the Academic Chair shall meet with the advisor at the beginning of each semester to review sorority academic performance and discuss the advisor’s interaction with the sorority in terms of academics. †† Academic Chair shall keep the advisor informed of academic goals and programming
Section 5.1 The Academic Chair shall use the weekly agenda time to give academic presentation, provide academic facts, study tips, academic awards, or any other business pertaining to academics.
Section 5.2 Academic Chair can budget for small awards or special activities to support academics, as long as it is consistent with the budget set by the Treasurer.
Section 5.3 A Sigma Delta Lambda test file can be made and updated by the Academic Chair. †† The file should not contain any files that would be in violation of university policies. †† Course file and professor evaluation can be kept in the files.
Section 5.4 Prior to registration for the next semester, the Academic Chair can host a registration night, so that older members can give suggestions to younger members and plan schedules.
Section 6 Powers and duties of the New Member Educator consist of the following: 1. Recruiting new members and informing them of sorority duties, history and other expectations 2. Organize new member meetings 3. Implement the L.I.N.K.S Program 4. Reports to the Executive New Member Educator 5. Section 7 If the situation be that a Co-New Member Educator is needed, their powers and duties shall consist of the following: 1. Recruiting new members and informing them of sorority duties, history and other expectations 2. Help New Member Educator organize new member meetings 3. Aid the New Member Educator in implementing the L.I.N.K.S Program 4. Assist New Member Educator in any duty needed
Section 8 Powers and duties of the Community Service Chair consist of the following: 1. Relaying available community service information to sorority 2. Maintaining accurate records of hours per member per semester. 3. Leading, creating and implementing service programs as stated by Executive Council.
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Section 9 Powers and duties of the Recruitment officer shall consist of the following: 1. Responsible for new member recruitment 2. Organizes and facilitates new member recruitment process 3. Responsible for all public relations, announcements, and arrangements for the recruitment process 4. Work with New Member Educator throughout the L.I.N.K.S. Program. 5. The time period for recruitment will be at the discretion of the Greek Council.
Section 10 Powers and duties of Fundraising Chair shall be to plan events in order to raise funds for future activities needed for the betterment of the sorority. The chair will work with treasurer to monitor profits and discuss the available budget for fundraising events.The chair shall be responsible for executing a fundraising plan or goal of one fundraiser per month.
Section 11 Powers and duties of the Public Relations will be to maintain sorority website, list serve, and to keep inactive members informed on what is going on. Arrange all flyers for upcoming events. (Purchase, pick up, and distribution dates).
Section 12 Powers and duties of Greek Council Delegates shall be to serve as a representative entity of Sigma Delta Lambda-Gamma Chapter and serve as a member of Greek Council. There shall be two Greek Council Delegates chosen and one alternate.
BYLAW VIII
Powers and Duties of Appointed Cabinet Chairs
Section 1 Powers and duties of the Historian shall be to maintain sorority scrapbook, take sorority pictures, and archive sorority information during her term. Also in charge of cubicle, display case updates, visual documentation of the attendance of each event.
Section 2 Powers and duties of the Social/ Sisterhood Chair shall be to execute all parties, plan mixers, plan annual banquets and formals, conduct all sisterhood events including unity week, help regulate the weekly journal, and other social events.
Section 3 Powers and duties of the Alumni Chair will be to maintain an open and willing line of communication between active members and the alumni members.
Section 4 Powers and Duties of Stroll Chair shall be to choreograph strolls to be performed by the stroll committee, coordinate meeting days and times for performance practices. Set attire to be worn by the stroll committee to wear on performance days. A. An inactive member is not allowed to stroll without permission from their designated chapter’s executive board.
BYLAW IX Committees Section 1 Special committees shall be appointed on an as needed basis and will require to meet quorum for approval by the Executive board
Section 2 All Active members will be a part of at least one committee.
Section 3 Special committees shall be appointed on an as needed basis and will require to meet quorum for approval by the Executive board
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BYLAW X Elections
Election procedure and “Building Bridges” Officer Program for Sigma Delta Lambda, Gamma Chapter, was adopted from Sigma Delta Lambda, Alpha Chapter. Additional rules have been added to meet the needs of the Gamma Chapter, and to maintain the original Sisters Dedicated to Latina Unity Constitution.
Section 1 Requirements and Eligibility
Section 1.01 Presidents of the Gamma chapter shall be limited to serving two terms, whether consecutive or nonconsecutive. (A sister may be allowed to run for a 3rd term under extenuating circumstances.)
Section 1.02 All presidential candidates shall have and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75 or above.
Section 1.03 Executive Board Candidates: should have served at least one academic year as a sister. Under the extenuating circumstance that the chapter is unable to fill all cabinet positions, members who have not served the full academic year as an active sister may be elected.
Section 1.04 Cabinet Candidates: should have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above at the time of election and should be in good standing with the sorority.
Section 2 Nominations
Section 2.01 “The lady does not seek the office; the office seeks the lady”. The chapter as a whole will nominate candidates for the Executive Board. a. At the first and second meeting of the spring semester a list of all members eligible to run for an Executive position will be passed out to each member. b. At this time only active/off-campus can nominate one person per office (you can nominate one person for more than one office). c. Members must turn in their nominations to the President for tallying. d. At the third meeting of the semester the President will announce the top four nominations for each position. e. At the time of presentation of nominees, the nominees will then have the opportunity to accept or decline the nomination. A person can accept nomination for more than one position. f. Results of the final nomination ballot will be typed up and brought to Election Day. g. At the fourth meeting of the semester all members eligible to run for a Cabinet position will self nominate themselves. (Or they can be nominated.) Each member can be nominated for only two positions. h. Results of self-nominations will be brought on Election Day.
Section 3 Election Day
Section 3.01 Guidelines: a. Elections will be held on one day, all day until every position has been filled. b. Sigma Delta Lambda will provide a meal for all members attending, and break time will be set before elections begin. c. Elections are mandatory, and in order to begin elections 85% of active/off-campus members must be present. Those members not in attendance shall be fined $50. Absences will be excused with proper documentation on file and only under extreme circumstances, reviewed by the executive board.
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d. Twenty minutes prior to break time, the president will announce a stopping point. No voting on a particular position may be divided by the break. e. All active/off-campus members who are not on probation are eligible to vote. Members on probation and/or inactive are ineligible to vote but still have a voice. f. All active/off-campus members eligible to nominate are required to attend Election Day, all day.
Section 3.02 Executive Board: The voting for the Executive Board will begin with the President and work its way down the chain of command. a. Each individual will have five minutes to present why they feel they would be best for the particular position. b. After the presentation there will be another five minutes available for a question and answer session among the candidates and the chapter c. After the question and answer session, the candidate will leave the room and there will be a five- minute discussion session among the chapter d. After candidates have presented themselves the chapter will vote by secret ballot. e. All votes will be collected and counted by the President and an advisor, alumni or active executive board of another chapter. f. The President will then announce the newly elected officer and continue to the next office. g. At this point the newly elected officer can decline nominations for other offices.
Section 3.03 Cabinet: The voting will begin with the New Member Educator followed by the Academic Chair, the Community Service Chair and then any remaining offices in any order. If there is a Cabinet position open with no candidates then the new Executive Board will appoint a member to the position. If there is only one person running for the position, they must still present themselves to the chapter and be voted on. The presentation of candidates and voting will be the same for the cabinet as is for the Executive Board.
Section 4 Terms of Office: Each Executive Board/Cabinet member will hold office for one year and may be re- elected for one additional term.
Section 5 Installation: New officers will be installed no later than the last meeting of the academic year. New officers will take office before the last meeting of each year.
Section 6 Transition of Office: New officers for the next academic year will be required to attend at least two transitional meetings with the discretion of the Executive Board. These transitional meetings are mandatory. Transitional meetings can be held during the semester or the summer following elections. Aside from four transitional officer meetings, an officer retreat should be organized in which, old and new officers are present. This should be done for a successful transition. If for some reason you miss a meeting, you will have to appear in front of the Executive Board and could face losing officer position.
Section 7 “Building Bridges” Officer Program
Section 7.01Objective: The objective of the "Building Bridges” officer program is to provide all incoming officers with transitioning and accountability requirements that will adequately prepare them to hold cabinet and executive positions within the Chapter. The officer program will require a collaborated effort by all existing and incoming officers.
Section 8 Duties of the Present Executive Board and Cabinet
Section 8.01 Terms of Office: The Present Executive Board and Cabinet will complete their terms no earlier than the last three meetings of the year.
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Section 8.02 The President is responsible for overseeing all officers elected into office. It is the president's responsibility to delegate the appropriate tasks to ensure that all duties are fulfilled by both the Present and newly elected officers. 2. Explaining all officer requirements to nominees. Turning in all SDL paperwork, documents, and notebooks to the newly elected chair. (No later than the transitioning retreat). 3. Scheduling two meetings with both the present and newly executive board and cabinets to discuss: a. Chapter Bylaws b. Judicial Procedure and Chapter Guidelines (it is advised that the chapter advisor be present). 4. Scheduling and planning an installation of officers for all incoming cabinet and executive members. (All officer requirements must have been fulfilled up to that point in order to be sworn into office). 5. Scheduling and planning a two-day transitioning retreat for existing and incoming officers. (Advisor must be present if available).
Section 9 Requirements for the Newly Elected Board and Cabinet
Section 9.01 Terms of Office: Executive Board/ Cabinet members will hold office for one complete academic year.
Section 9.02 The Newly Elected Board and Cabinet is responsible for completing the following requirements before the end of the academic semester: 1. Attending two transition meetings with the Present executive board and Cabinet. 2. Attending one transition meeting with the entire Newly elected executive Board and Cabinet. 3. Attending a retreat with both the Present and newly elected board and cabinets. 4. Executive board members are required to meet with the Present executive board to discuss NEB and Chapter bylaws, judicial procedure, and the crisis management plan. (Advisor or NEB representative must be present). *Additional one on one training is optional.
Section 10 Summer Transitioning 1. All executive and cabinet members are required to attend a minimum of 2 summer meetings. All meetings will be scheduled before the end of the semester in which officers were elected.
2. The president is responsible for scheduling a Mandatory Welcome Back Workshop before the beginning of the next academic school year. (The entire membership must attend). (An advisor or NEB representative must attend).
Section 11 Officer Malfeasance All termination or resignation cases during the existing board's term will be heard and presided upon by both executive boards (Present and newly elected). All cases resulting after the existing board's term will be presided upon by the newly executive board only.
Section 11.01 Terminations: All individuals in default of the officer requirements may have their position revoked. Emergency situations will be given special consideration.
Section 11.02 Resignations: Members who resign their cabinet or executive positions must submit written documentation to the executive board in session. All resignation cases will be granted satisfactory or unsatisfactory depending on the reasons provided.
Section 11.021 Satisfactory Resignation: Granted on the basis of family emergency, or cases deemed appropriate by the executive board.
Section 11.022 Unsatisfactory Resignation: Granted on the basis that the individual "changed her mind" and had previous knowledge of prior responsibilities. 1. Members granted unsatisfactory resignation would be ineligible to run for office the next academic year.
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Section 11.03 Officers who are terminated or who have received unsatisfactory resignation will be fined $100.
Section 12 Academic Probation: An officer who's GPA falls below a 2.5, or a 2.75 for the President, at any time during their elected term will have their officer position automatically revoked. (The executive board is responsible for reviewing their academic standing before nominations of the following year).
Section 13 Statement of Obligation
Section 13.01 Before taking office each officer must sign the below stated statement of obligation.
Section 13.02 I______, as a member of Sigma Delta Lambda have been explained the officer requirements set forth by the Gamma Chapter. I understand that failure to complete the above requirements would jeopardize my position as a cabinet or executive board officer.
Signature______Date______
BYLAW XI
Quorum
Fifty plus one percent of all active members shall constitute a quorum.
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