DECEMBER 2021 WILMINGTON, DE ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 1 | Page TABLE OF CONTENTS ARTICLE I: NAME ................................................................................ PAGE 1 ARTICLE II: PURPOSE...............................................................................PAGE 1 ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIP........................................................................PAGE 1 ARTICLE IV: OFFICERS ........................................................................PAGE 4 ARTICLE V: MEETINGS......................................................................... PAGE 10 ARTICLE VI: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE ..................................................... PAGE 11 ARTICLE VII: CHAPTER COMMITTEES ..................................................... PAGE 11 ARTICLE VIll: PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY............................................ PAGE 13 ARTICLE IX: AMENDMENT OF BYLAWS ....................................................PAGE 16 ARTICLE X: DELEGATION REPRESENTATION ..............................................PAGE 17 ARTICLE XI: DISSOLUTION.........................................................................PAGE 17
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 2 | Page ARTICLE I - NAME This organization shall be known as Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated located in Wilmington, Delaware. The chapter shall be composed of Graduate Sorors as defined by the Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. ARTICLE II - PURPOSE The purpose of this chapter shall be to implement locally those activities, which interpret the program of the corporate body of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc., to maintain a progressive interest in the community and to be of service to all mankind. ARTICLE III – Membership SECTION 1. Qualifications A. An active member of Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., is a Soror who meets all the financial requirements for the current year of Zeta Omega Chapter and the Boule. The financial requirements include chapter dues and assessments, Regional/Cluster assessments (when applicable), EAF dues, as well as the cost of the current International Bylaws and Manual of Standard Procedure (in the year following the Boule, only). Every active chapter member is a member of the Boule. B. Any woman who has been initiated into an undergraduate chapter or another alumna chapter may transfer her membership and become a member of Zeta Omega Chapter. Sorors who transfer to Zeta Omega must pay previous indebtedness to her former chapter and the Boule before the transfer fee will be accepted. C. A candidate for graduate membership must be a woman of high ethical and moral standards who has attained a Baccalaureate Degree, with a cumulative average of at least C+ or a graduate or professional degree from an accredited senior college or university and who has some definite contribution to make to the Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc. D. The chapter may hold only one meeting a year at which voting upon candidates may take place. Names of all candidates shall be placed on one ballot and a secret vote taken. A favorable vote shall consist of two-thirds of the active members voting. E. A graduate candidate who is the daughter, granddaughter, adopted daughter, stepdaughter or legal ward* of an active or deceased Soror is considered a legacy candidate and may be considered for membership without a chapter vote. The living family member Soror must have been active for at least two (2) years (twentyfour consecutive months) immediately preceding the presentation of the
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 3 | Page recommendation for the Legacy Candidate. The Legacy Candidate must meet all the qualifications required for graduate membership. (*For Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., a legal ward is defined as one whose permanent care, control, and custody legally have been placed with a Soror byan appropriate court of law.) F. In considering candidates for membership, graduate chapters shall take the initial steps. A Soror who desires to serve as the sponsor or co-sponsor of a prospective candidate for membership is required to have two years (twenty-four consecutive months) of active membership in the graduate chapter (Zeta Omega). Active membership is defined as: attending at least 75% of ZO chapter meetings (15 meetings within a 24-month period) immediately preceding the presentation of the recommendation for membership, actively participating (attend at least five committee meetings AND assisting in the planning and implementation of committee activities) on a chapter committee and consistently holding to the Soror Code of Ethics at all chapter meetings, events and activities. A Soror must have attended one of the last two Regional Conferences, Boule or the International Leadership Conference. G. Except for specific officers, and Sorors sponsoring candidates for membership, attendance at chapter meetings and activities shall be voluntary. H. The chapter shall follow the most current version of the Graduate Membership Intake Process Manual to carry out all aspects of the Graduate Membership Intake Process. SECTION 2. Assessments, Fees or Dues A. Each member affiliated with the chapter shall become delinquent after failure to pay regular dues and assessments by December 31st. Per capita tax shall not be transmitted to the Alpha Kappa Alpha office until all financial obligations to the chapter are met. A late chapter fee shall be assessed on dues paid after December 31. B. Any financial obligation voted by a quorum of the membership automatically becomesthe obligation of the entire membership C. Chapter dues may be increased upon a majority vote of a quorum of the membership at leastone year prior to the December meeting before the year it is to become effective. D. A member who is non-financial for one year or more and wishes to reactivate is required to pay previous indebtedness to her former chapter and the Boule before the reinstatement fee will be accepted. SECTION 3. Rights of Membership Only members whose dues and assessments have been paid in full are entitled to vote, serve on committees, run for office, and represent the chapter as a delegate to the Boule and Regional Conference.
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 4 | Page SECTION 4. Resignations and Disciplinary Action A. Any member found guilty of violating any of the Bylaws shall be subject to the withdrawal of individual privileges. B. Violation of the Violation of the anti-hazing policy may result in individual penalties including, but not limited to withdrawal of individual privileges not to exceed twelve (12) months, suspension, or expulsion from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. C. Violation of the anti-hazing policy may result in chapter penalties including, but not limited to, withdrawal of chapter privileges to remain in force for twelve (12) months, revocation ofchapter charter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. D. A chapter or member subject to withdrawal of chapter or individual privileges shall be restored to good standing when the cause of the penalty is removed; when the time specified in the Bylaws has expired; when the financial obligations, including the payment to the Alpha Kappa Alpha Corporate Office of the annual chapter tax for each year chapter's inactive status resulting from withdrawal of privileges or chapter suspension, have been met, or by a two-thirds vote of the chapter. E. Any officer who is found guilty of violating the Bylaws and Constitution or established procedures or who is found guilty of constantly neglecting or failing to discharge her duties, shall be removed from office by a two-thirds vote of the Executive Committee after findings have been presented by a committee composed of two members of the Executive Committee and three members not holding office. The Basileus shall appoint the committee F. A chairman of a committee who is found guilty of constantly neglecting or failing to discharge duties assigned to her may be removed as chairman of the committee by the Basileus with the approval of two-thirds of the Executive Committee. ARTICLE IV - OFFICERS The officers of Zeta Omega Chapter shall consist of Basileus, First Anti-Basileus, Second Anti-Basileus, Grammateus, Anti-Grammateus, Tamiouchos, Anti-Tamiouchos, Pecunious Grammateus, Anti- Pecunious Grammateus, Epistoleus, Parliamentarian, Chaplain, Ivy Leaf Reporter/Media Specialist, Historian, Hodegos, Graduate Advisor and Philacter. With the exception of the Parliamentarian and Chaplain, all officers shall be elected by a majority vote. The Basileus with whom they serve shall appoint the Parliamentarian and Chaplain. SECTION 1. Duties of Officers A. The BASILEUS shall preside at all meetings of the chapter and have general
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 5 | Page supervision of all affairs of the chapter. The Basileus serves as Chair of Executive Committee. She shall be ex-officio member of all standing committees, except Nominating and Internal Audit. Unless otherwise shown in the Bylaws, she shall appoint all committee chairmen except the Nominating and Auditing Committees. She shall make herself familiar with the Constitution and Bylaws and the Manual of Standard Procedures. She must obey the Constitution and Bylaws as they stand. She may be advised by the Fonner Basileus. She shall be the official representative of the chapter at all Sorority conferences, meetings and community events. The Basileus must sign all Request for Funds vouchers. B. The FIRST ANTI-BASILEUS shall possessall the required qualifications of the Basileus. The First Anti- Basileusshallassume the duties of the Basileus in her absence. She shall assume the role ofthe Chairman of theProgram Committee and keeper ofthe yearly calendar. She shall also have under her generalsupervision thefollowingstandingand special committees:Budget andFinance, Bylaws,Debutante Program, Debutante Program Evaluation, Standards, Internal Audit, Membership, Graduate Advisors Council, Nominating, Black Family, EAF and Programs. C. The SECOND ANTI-BASILEUS shallassume the duties of the First Anti- Basileus in her absence. In the event the Basileus becomesincapacitated, the First AntiBasileus shall assume her duties and the Second Anti-Basileus shall thus assume the duties of the First Anti-Basileus. The Second Anti-Basileus shall also have under her general supervision the following standing and special committees: Scholarship, Public Relations, Technology, Protocol/Rituals, Education, Economics, AKA Connections, Hospitality, Sisterly Relations, Ensemble, Display/Awards, Special Projects, History, Archives, The Arts, Health and Tellers. D. The GRAMMATEUS shall take the minutes at all meetings, which shall be an accurate record of the business transacted. She shall serve as custodian of all chapter records and make them available to committees as needed. She shall receive and file written reports of officers and committees. Every January, all minutes and reports should be bound. She creates ballots for everyelection. E. The ANTI-GRAMMATEUS shall take minutes at the executive committee meetings. She shalltake minutes in the absence of the Grammateus, keep records of the locations of the chapter's property and keep attendance of all meetings andconferences. F. The TAMIOUCHOS shall render accurate financial statements and make reports of receipts and disbursements. She shall deposit all funds received from the Pecunious Grammateus. She shall pay all expenses of the chapter for which properly signed vouchers have been received and make monthly and annual reports in writing of the financial operations of her office. She signs all vouchers. She shall send reminders of unpaid dues and assessments. She shall serve as Chairman of the Budget and Finance Committee and have the books audited
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 6 | Page yearly. The Tamiouchos shall be bonded and maintain the bid certificate and insurance declaration for the chapter. G. The ANTI-TAMIOUCHOS will assist the Tamiouchos in the performing of herduties; will perform duties of the Tamiouchos in her absence except to deposit funds and write checks. In the event the Tamiouchos is physically unableto depositfundsand /or write checks, the Anti-Tamiouchos will perforn1theseduties. She shall enter records into the electronic model used for Zeta Omega'sfinancial processes; assist with the end of the year financial reporting to the Corporate Office; keep track of the Zeta Omega Budget on a monthly basis, and assist with the compilation of records/information to be supplied for chapter audits. The Anti- Tamiouchos will be a member ofthe Budget and Finance Committee and will be bonded. H. The PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUS shall maintain all financial records. She shall keep a current list of financial members and have it available at every meeting. She shall receive and record all funds in the name of the chapter and submit funds to the Tamiouchos for deposit. She prepares and disperses receipts for all income received. She maintains records of all receipts issued. She should demonstrate knowledge of Alpha Kappa Alpha financial procedures and shall serve on the Budget and Finance Committee. The Pecunious Grammateus shall be bonded. I. The ANTI-PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUS will assist the Pecunious Grammateus in the performance of her duties; she will perform the duties of the Pecunious Grammateus in her absence. She will oversee the financial process for designated Committee(s) that receive funds to include recording all funds, maintaining records of cash receipts, making copies of checks and processing transmittal forms through the use of software of choice. She will assist with the reparation/gathering of documents for the chapter's audit. She will be a member of the Budget and Finance Committee. The Anti-Pecunious Grammateus will be bonded. J. The EPISTOLEUS shall conduct chapter correspondence and notify members promptly and accurately of all meetings. She shall have an up-to-date list of all chapter members and all International officers. K. The PARLIAMENTARIAN shall monitor the Constitution and Bylaws changes to ensure that such changes will be incorporated into the chapter bylaws. She shall assist the presiding officer interpreting points of law and substantiating policies as written in the Constitution and Bylaws. The Parliamentarian shall serve as Chairman of the Bylaws Committee L. The Ivy Leaf Reporter / Media Specialist shall see that news of importance is sent to the Editor- in-Chief of the Ivy Leaf and to the local news media. This information is to be shared with Basileus prior to sending the news article forward. She shall serve as the chairman of the Public Relations Committee. She
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 7 | Page shall conduct an annual public relations workshop to get the entire chapter involved in the public relations of the chapter. She arranges for photographs to be made of the chapter's major events. The Ivy Leaf Reporter shall be a resource to the Technology Committee to provide news and photographs for the chapter's website and social media sites. M. The HISTORIAN shall keep an accurate historical record of chapter activities, keep a permanent history of the chapter, The HISTORJAN also serves as Chair of the History Committee and consultant to the Awards/Display Committee. She shall be a resource to the Technology Committee for documentation of materials. N. The HODEGOS shall welcome and introduce all visitors. She shall be the Chairman of the Hospitality Committee. She shall be responsible for sending the appropriate amenities and informing the body of special occasions O. The GRADUATE ADVISOR shall serve as liaison between the alumna and undergraduate chapters and between the undergraduate chapter and the Regional Director. She shall assist the undergraduate chapter in the interpretation and implementation of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Program and Constitution and Bylaws. She shall attend all meetings and activities of the undergraduate chapter. She or her designee shall be a permanent delegate to the Boule, Regional, and attend the leadership Conference and the Undergraduate Roundup. She shall approve and supervise the Undergraduate Membership Intake Process. The Graduate Advisor shall work in cooperation with the faculty advisor appointed by the college or university. She shall serve as the Chairman of the Graduate Advisors Council. P. The PHILACTER shall guard the door at chapter meetings, during private chapter rituals and ceremonies, and certify visiting Sorors as stated in the Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Q. The CHAPLAIN shall provide meditation at Sorority meetings and other functions as needed. SECTION 2. Terms of Office All officers shall serve a term as indicated below or until their successors are elected. Terms shall begin on January 1. A. The term of office for the Basileus, First Anti-Basileus, and Second Anti-Basileus shall be for two consecutive years. Although the position of Basileus is placed on the ballot, the Soror holding the office of First Anti-Basileus at the time of nomination shall automatically become the candidate for the office of Basileus. Accordingly, the Soror holding the office of Second Anti-Basileus at the time of nomination may become a candidate for the office of First Anti-Basileus or may seek one additional term as Second Anti- Basileus. When a candidate has been elected or appointed to fill an unexpired term, she shall not automatically become the candidate for First Anti-Basileus, she must seek reelection for an additionalterm.
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 8 | Page B. In case of an unexpired term of the Basileus, the First Anti-Basileus shall complete the unexpired term of the office and maintain eligibility to serve a full elected term. The unexpired term of Anti- Basileus shall be filled by election or appointment by the Basileus. C. All other officers shall serve for two years and may be eligible for re-election, but may not serve for more than two consecutive terms. Vacancies among offices shall be filled by appointments by the Basileus subject to confirmation by the body. D. If an officer is nominated for a different office, she shall submit a written resignation from her present office prior to having her name placed on the ballot. The successor to the vacated office shall fill the unexpired term of that office only SECTION 3. Nominations and Elections A. The Nominating Committee shall be elected by the membership by ballot. The committee shall choose its own chairman. The committee shall nominate candidates for each office to be filled and report its findings at the October meeting. B. Election shall be by secret ballot at the November meeting and installation at the December meeting. In the event there is but one nominee for any office, the vote may be taken by voice vote or acclimation. i. One-half of the officers shall be elected at each November meeting. The officers elected in odd years include: Basileus, 1st Anti-Basileus, 2ndAnti-Basileus, Epistoleus, Graduate Advisor, Pecunious Grammateus, Anti-Tamiouchos, Historian,andPhilacter. The officers electedineven years include: Tamiouchos,Anti-Pecunious Grammateus, Grammateus,Anti- Grammateus, Hodegos, and Ivy Leaf Reporter/Media Specialist. Section 4. Officer Qualifications A. In order to be a candidate for First Anti-Basileus, a Soror must have attended a Boule or Regional conference immediately preceding her nomination. She must have been financially active for three (3) years in Zeta Omega (36 consecutive months) prior to seeking office. The candidate seeking the First Anti-Basileus should demonstrate active involvement in the business of the chapter. A Soror must have attended seven (7) chapter meetings during each of the last two consecutive sorority calendar years. The candidate must have served as an officer or chaired a standing committee within the last three (3) year period. The Soror must provide a profile of chapter involvement. B. In order to be a candidate for the office of Second Anti-Basileus a Soror must have been financially active for three (3) years in Zeta Omega (36 consecutive months) prior to seeking office. The candidate seeking the
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 9 | Page Second Anti-Basileus should demonstrate active involvement in the business of the chapter. A Soror must have attended at least 75% of ZO chapter meetings held during two consecutive sorority calendar years prior to seeking office. A Soror must have attended one of the last two Regional Conferences, Boule or the International Leadership Conference. The candidate must have served as an officer or chaired a Standing Committee within the last three (3) year period. The Soror must provide a profile of chapter involvement C. In order to be a candidate for the office of Grammateus, a Soror must have been financiallyactive for three (3) years in Zeta Omega (36 consecutive months) prior to seeking office. A sorer must have attended seven (7) chapter meetings during the calendar year. A Soror must have attended one of the last two Regional Conferences, Boule or the International Leadership Conference. The Soror must provide a profile of chapter involvement. D. In order to be a candidate for the offices of Tamiouchos or Pecunious Grammateus, a sorer must have been financially active for two (2) years in Zeta Omega (24 consecutive months) prior to seeking office. A Soror must have attended at least 75% of ZO chapter meetings heldduring two (2) consecutive sorority calendar years. A Soror must be knowledgeable in financial procedures and processes. A Soror must have attended one of the last two Regional Conferences, Boule, or International Leadership Conference. The Soror must provide a profile of chapter involvement. She must attend a Financial Certification Workshop given at a Regional Conference or Boule. To be a candidate for Chapter Tamiouchos or Pecunious Grammateus, a candidate shall certify that she has not been sanctioned (1) legally or (2) internally by another organization for misappropriation of funds. E. To be a candidate for the offices of Anti-Tamiouchos or Anti- Pecunious Grammateus, a Soror must have been financially active for two (2) years in Zeta Omega (24 consecutive months) prior to seeking office. A Soror must have attended at least 75% of ZO chapter meetings held during two (2) consecutive sorority calendar years. A Soror must be knowledgeable in financial procedures and processes. A Soror must have attended one of the last two Regional Conferences, Boule, or International Leadership Conference. The Soror must provide a profile of chapter involvement. She should also attend a Financial Certification Workshop given at a Regional Conference or Boule. To be a candidate for Chapter Tamiouchos or Pecunious Grammateus, a candidate shall certify that she has not been sanctioned (1) legally or (2) internally by another organization for misappropriation of funds. F. In order to be a candidate for advisor an undergraduate chapter, immediately prior to her election a Soror shall have been a member of the
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 10 | Page graduate chapter for at least two years, must never have been suspended for hazing, must be at least a five-year post-graduate from an undergraduate college or university program, must have attended one of the last twoBoules one of the last two Regional Conferences and be certified by the Directorate approved Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Graduate Advisor Certification Program. G. In order to be a candidate for the offices of Anti-Grammateus, Epistoleus, Historian, Bodegas, Ivy Leaf Reporter, or Philactor, a Soror must have been financial withthe chapter for at least one year and must have been an active participant on a committee for that same timeperiod. H. In order to be a candidate for Membership Chairman, a Soror must never have been suspended for hazing. ARTICLE V - MEETINGS SECTION 1. Regular chapter meetings shall be held monthly, September through June, unless a special program or activity is planned. Chapter meetings are to be held in a manner that allows Sorors to be in a room together for face-to-face discussion of chapter business. In the event of an emergency or special circumstance, a chapter meeting may be held electronically upon approval by the Regional Director. Sorors will be notified of meetings via a monthly newsletter. All Zeta Omega chapter members may attend and vote at chapter meetings. With regard to chapter meeting attendance: When Sorors are absent from chapter meetings due to official Zeta Omega/Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority business, a written request must be submitted to the Basileus at a minimum of three days prior for approval. If the Executive Committee grants an approval, the Soror will be excused from the said meeting. SECTION 2. Special meetings can be convened upon request of the Basileus or by forty members of the active membership. SECTION 3. A quorum to conduct business in the name of the Sorority shall consist of 30% of the financial members of the chapter. A quorum to conduct business in the name of the Sorority related to chapter-wide financial assessments shall consist of 40% of the financial members of the chapter. SECTION 4. At least two meetings each year shall be held jointly with the undergraduate chapters. The main purpose of these meetings shall be social, in order to increase fellowship and better understanding. Only business of joint interest, such as civic
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 11 | Page and social issues, may be discussed and voted upon at these meetings. Such meetings shall be presided over alternately by the Basileus of each chapter and attended by the active members of the graduate and undergraduate chapters. SECTION 5. The Executive Committee, standing committees, and special committees are authorized to meet by telephone conference or through other electronic communications media as long as all the members may simultaneously hear each other and participate during meetings. ARTICLE VI - EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE SECTION 1. The Executive Committee consists of all officers of the chapter, plus Chairmen of the Standards and Nominating Committees. · SECTION 2. The Executive Committee shall meet monthly prior to the regular chapter meeting. SECTION 3. The Executive Committee's duties are to review and discuss business to be acted upon at the chapter meeting. The committee shall be vested with the power to transact the business of the chapter between meetings and to act in emergencies during the months when the chapter does not meet (July and August). The committee shall have the power to make recommendations of actions to be presented to the body. SECTION 4. The quorum for the Executive Committee Meeting is seven committee members. ARTICLE VII - CHAPTER COMMITTEES SECTION 1. The following are the Standing Committees: AKA Connection, Archives, Budget and Finance, Bylaws, Executive, Graduate Advisors Council, Hospitality, Membership, Sisterly Relations, Nominating, Program, Protocol/Rituals, Standards, Technology, and Tellers'. SECTION 2. The following are Special Committees: The Arts, Black Family, Debutante Program, Debutante Program Evaluation, Educational Advancement Foundation
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 12 | Page (EAF), Display/Awards, Education, Economics, Health, History, Internal Audit, Ivy Leaf/Public Relations, Scholarship, Special Projects, and Zeta Omega Ensemble. SECTION 3. Internal Audit – The Internal Audit Committee is responsible for the internal audit. The Internal Audit Committee shall be elected by the Membership. This committee shall elect its chairman. No member currently in a financial position shall be a member of this committee. The financial records of the chapter should be audited internally on a yearly basis, and a written report submitted to the chapter. They should review the financial records of the chapter to ensure compliance with the International Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and the Manual of Standard Procedure. In addition, it is recommended that an external audit, by a non-chapter member (s), be performed at the end of the Tamiouchos' term to maintain independence from the current administration SECTION 4. The Basileus shall be an ex-officio member of every committee except the Nominating and Internal Audit Committees. Unless otherwise noted, the Basileus shall appoint the chai1men of the committees. SECTION 5. Every two years, on the alternate year of the election of the Basileus, Sorors will have the opportunity to select the committees on which they will serve. There is no minimum or maximum number of Sorors for any committee. SECTION 6. Standing Committees A. AKA Connections-The non-partisan, political action, and networking arm of the sorority. Identifies Sorors in key positions and with special skills and talents. Identifies local issues affecting Blacks and mobilizes the chapter for action on issues. Establishes and executes a program that supports international objectives. The chapter coordinator and members should have knowledge of and interests in critical issues, organizational skills, ability to communicate effectively, and the ability to work well with others. B. Archives- Charged with collecting, preserving, and protecting documents and material. The Archives committee receives and systematically stores historical records from outgoing officers and chairmen; and records notable events and activities of the chapter. The Archives Committee is the custodian of the chapter's historic print and nonprint materials. Materials should be retained in the chapter's storage facility. The committee instructs the chapter on archival standards. The committee is to submit an End of the Year Archives Report. C. Budget and Finance-Responsible for developing the annual budget of the chapter. Seeks to arrive at a reasonable compromise between what the body wants to accomplish and what is feasible in termsof projected income and
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 13 | Page expenses. Ensures that account management and bonding are in place. The Tamiouchos serves as chairman. D. Bylaws Committee- The Parliamentarian serves as chairman of the Bylaws Committee- Circulates proposed changes in the Constitution and Bylaws to the body. Ensures that updated rules and regulations approved by the chapter are incorporated into chapter bylaws. The Bylaws Committee shall initiate revisions to the chapter bylaws, following adoption at the Boule. Revises chapter bylaws after each Boule. E. Executive-Composedof all chapter officers, including the chairman of Standards and Nominating Committees. The Basileus serves aschairman. F. Graduate Advisors Council-Supports the Graduate Advisor and the undergraduate chapter with programs and activities. Close contact and communication with the Graduate Advisors would allow for identified needs to be known. They may wish to help with the Rush, become mentors, assist with the Membership Intake Process, and develop joint projects with the undergraduate and graduate chapters. The Graduate Advisor serves as Chairman· G. Hospitality- Responsible for sending the appropriate remembrance to Sorors on behalf of thechapter (birthday, illness, death, etc.) Shall inform the body of all special occasions. This committee is responsible for refreshments for the monthly chapter meetings and selected special occasions. The committee depends heavily upon the entire membership to keep it informed of needed remembrances. The Hodegos serves as chairman of these activities. H. Membership-Handles all activitiesthat impact recruiting, retaining,and reclaiming members.Key initiatives that fall under this committee are: Founders Day, Annual Chapter Retreat, and the Membership Intake Process. The committee plans activities to encourage inactive Sorors to reactivate and should be conscious and aware of the needs of the chapter in order to enhance retentionand involvement ofthe maximum number of Sorors. The Chairpersonofthe Membership Committee shall be appointed by the Basileus. I. Sisterly Relations-This committee is responsible for social affairs and activities to allow the opportunity for Sorors and families to get acquainted. Key initiatives that fall under this committee are Sisterly Relations & Social Affairs. The International Sisterly Relations Liaison, who is appointed by the Basileus, will serve as Chairperson of the Sisterly Relations Committee. J.Nominating-Responsible for assembling for seeking, soliciting, and orienting Sorors to serve as leaders for the chapter. Should be familiar with the membership and dedicated to soliciting the best possible candidates for positions. Validates the slate of officers presented for nomination. K.Program-Responsible for developing, promoting, guiding, and evaluating activities sponsored by committees that reflect the theme and ideas of the International Office and support the program targets identified at Boule. The total membership should have input in the formulation ofideas for the chapter program.
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 14 | Page The First Anti-Basileus serves as chairman. _ L. Protocol/Rituals-Responsible for providing information pertaining to proper etiquette and conduct for all sorority functions on local, regional, and international levels. They will also provide the established rituals of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated with various ceremonies. M. Standards-Responsible for the evaluation of the chapter based upon criteria established by the International Office. May recommend programs and workshops that provide assistance for the chapter when the results of the evaluation indicate such a need. Committee members should be knowledgeable of the sorority's structure, operation, and programs. Strategic planning will also be a responsibility of thiscommittee. N. Technology-Responsible for establishing, monitoring, and updating the Zeta Omega Website, social media sites and assisting the chapter with computer and technology projects. Membership is open to all Sorors. O. Tellers' Committee- The tellers' committee (members who areappointed to countthe vote during a meeting) counts and records the ballots. SECTION 7. Special Committees. These committees exist as the need arises or during specific times of the year and may be activated for purposes of planning. Once the final report is presented these committees, cease to exist. Unless otherwise noted, the Basileus shall appoint the chairwomen and its members of these committees. A. The Arts-This committee is responsible for providing an opportunity for Sorors and thecommunity to become familiar with and develop an appreciation for a variety of art forms. B. Black Family- The Black Family Committee identifies community needs and partners with local community service providers to support families from infants to Senior Citizens. When identified, the committee will prioritize the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated International Office Program's suggested activities to support families. C. Debutante Program- This committee is responsible for selecting young ladies from the senior classes of area high schools who possess high moral and ethical standards and have a minimumGPA that is determined by this committee and approved by the body. They provide experiences that encourage volunteer services and allow the young ladies to develop an appreciation for the social graces and our black heritage. This committee plans a variety of workshops and seminars to enrich the lives of the participants in such areas as health, career, poise, and grace D. Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF) - This is a special committee of the chapter. This committee coordinates fundraising activities to support EAF, and make a difference in the lives of others through scholarships and grants.
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 15 | Page E. Debutante Program Evaluation-This committee recommends improvement in and retention of aspects of the Debutante Program that allows for the best possible program and Ball. F. Economics- This committee is responsible for identifying strategies for obtaining economic empowerment for the chapter. They collaborate with other community groups regardingeconomic growth, consumer information, and education. They also give support to Black businesses in the community. G. Education- This committee is responsible for implementing programs and projects that will emphasize reading, writing, mathematics, science, and technology to enrich the lives of youth culturally, educationally, emotionally, andsocially. H. Display/Awards- This committee provides a visual account of the chapter's activities for conferences and public functions of the sorority and community. Informs and educates the public about the purposes and activities of the sorority. The Historian acts as a consultant. I. Health- This committee is responsible for providing information to the chapter and the community on health concerns affecting minorities. This committee may become involved in joint efforts with community agencies in educating groups and devising strategies to alter programming,statistics, and services affecting minorities and the poor. The group develops programs that improve the health status of Zeta Omega members. This committee will lead the Chapter's efforts in sponsoring the annual Sickle Cell Tennis Tournament. J. History- This committee will create many of the documents and artifacts that the Archive Committee will collect, preserve, and protect. The History Committee researches and documents all chapter materials. They analyze data to provide interpretations and they produce historical work. The Historian serves as the chairman. K. Internal Audit-The Internal Audit Committee will be composed of five (5) members elected by the body but NOT to include the financial officers or the Basileus. They should review the financial records of the chapter to ensure compliance with the International Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and the Manual of Standard Procedure. L. Public Relations- This committee is designed to build sound and productive relations that will enhance the chapter's reputation and image in the community. The group reports newsworthy information about the chapter's activities to the media, IvyLeaf, and chapter members. The chairman maintains a media contact list and may assist committees with publicizing events. A representative from each standing and special committee will act as a liaison to the committee. The Ivy Leaf Reporter serves as chairman. M. Scholarship - The members of this committee are responsible for distributing, receiving, and evaluating scholarship applicants to determine recipients of the chapter's scholarship awards. This committee determines the dollar value of awards based on available funds. Committee members shall verify the grade point averages of the applicant and verify enrollment in a college before
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 16 | Page authorizing payment of funds to the college. Names must be presented to the Executive Committee prior to public announcement. N. Special Projects- This committee is responsible for planning and implementing projects that will generate funds to increase the budget of the chapter. The Committee shall develop and present a fund-raising plan, inclusive of fund-raising initiatives to the Budget and Finance Committee for consideration. The money generated from the fund-raising initiatives will be used for community programs and scholarships. O. Zeta Omega Ensemble- This committee provides vocal music for special occasions. Membership is open to all Sorors ARTICLE VIII - PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY The Rules contained in the current edition of Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised shall govern the chapter in all cases to which they are applicable and not inconsistent with the Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and these bylaws and any special rules of order that may be adopted by the Chapter. The governing documents shall be used in said order: · 1. International Constitution and Bylaws of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 2. International Manual of Standard Procedure of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. 3. Chapter Bylaws 4. The current edition of Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised (12th edition). ARTICLE IX-AMENDMENT OF BYLAWS SECTION 1. The Bylaws of the chapter may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the financial members present, provided that written notice has been sent 30 days prior to the meeting. Financial members may submit proposed bylaw changes to the Parliamentarian at any time. ARTICLE X - DELEGATION REPRESENTATION SECTION 1.
ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER BYLAWS ADOPTED 2020 17 | Page A Soror who is elected to serve as a delegate to a conference must have been financially active for two (2) years in Zeta Omega prior to the time that names are submitted to the Grammateus. Members will be notified of open slots via newsletter two (2) months prior to the conference. SECTION 2. The body must elect delegates to regional conferences and Boule. The Grammateus prepares ballots for other elections. SECTION 3. A delegate request form must be submitted to the Grammateus by the date specified on the form. SECTION 4. Fifty percent (50%) of the delegates to all conferences shall be officers with the remaining slots open to the body. In the event there are an odd number of delegates, selection will be weighted in favor of chapter officers. The first four delegates are the Basileus, First Anti-Basileus, Second Anti-Basileus, and Graduate Advisor. ARTICLE XI - DISSOLUTION SECTION 1. Upon dissolution of the Chapter, its assets shall be distributed for one or more exempt purposes within the meaning of Sec 501 (c) (7) of the Internal Revenue Code or corresponding section of any future federal tax code, or one or more exempt purposes within in the meaning of Sec 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code, or shall be distrusted to the federal government, or a state local government, for the public purpose. The chapter charter shall be returned to the Corporate Office of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Revised: November 2021 Revised: December 2020 Revised: November 2018 Amended: September 2017