Building Better Bylaws

What is the primary purpose of bylaws in an organization?

• To describe day to day operations

• To outline membership dues and fees.

• To provide structure, guide decision-making, and ensure fairness and transparency

• To set the organization’s marketing strategy

The Object or Purpose section of the bylaws serves to:

• Outline the eligibility requirements for membership

• Describe the chapter’s mission, values, and goals

• Define the procedures for meetings and voting

• List the chapter’s financial obligations

Which of the following should be in Article III - Membership?

• Chapter meeting frequency

• Types of membership recognized by the Sorority

• Officer nomination process

• Procedures for collecting dues and assessments

Chapters can define their own membership categories as long as they are consistent within the chapter.

• TRUE

• FALSE

The name listed in your bylaws should match the name used on official documents like tax filings and bank accounts.

• TRUE

• FALSE

What are ways a vacancy may be filled according to bylaws or parliamentary procedure?

• Automatically filled by the most senior member

• Always left vacant until the next regular election

• Filled only by the national organization

• Filled by appointment or election, as outlined in the bylaws

What is the primary duty of the Nominating Committee?

• To elect officers

• To ensure a balanced slate based on chapter seniority

• To ensure nominees meet qualifications and present a slate

• To determine election procedures

Bylaws should state both how officers are elected and when their term begins

• TRUE

• FALSE

Which of the following is the best reason to include the clause “or until a successor is elected” in the bylaws?

• To give officers more time in the office if they want it.

• To protect the officer’s role and authority.
  

• To prevent a gap in leadership if elections are delayed or contested.

• To allow the outgoing officer to chose her replacement.

Why should bylaws describe officer duties in general terms instead of listing every specific task?

• To give officers freedom to define their roles.

• Because detailed procedures for carrying out duties are not part of bylaws

• Because duties change too often to be in the bylaws

• To make the bylaws shorter and more casual.