Bylaws of the D.C. Science Writers Association

  1. Membership.
    1. Membership is open to those who consider themselves science writers or communicators.
    2. Members shall abide by the DCSWA code of conduct. Failure to do so will result in consequences to be determined by the DCSWA Board of Directors.
    3. Membership shall consist of two classes: Member and Student Member. Student members must be enrolled in a school or degree-granting program.
  2. Officers.
    1. Officers shall include : President, Vice President, Treasurer, Deputy Treasurer, Secretary, Membership Chair, Social Media Chair and Social Events Chair. The President may appoint someone to preside in their absence.
    2. Officers will be elected by a vote of the Board of Directors.
    3. The Vice President shall serve as President in the following term.
    4. Elections will be annual. Officers will serve April 1 through March 31.
  3. Board of Directors.
    1. The board shall consist of 10 to 20 members.
    2. Members may nominate themselves or any other member to serve on the board.
    3. A succeeding board will be elected by a vote of the current board.
    4. Elections will be annual. Board members will serve April 1 through March 31.
    5. When possible, board members are expected to serve three consecutive terms before retiring from the board.
    6. Board members may return to the board after a period of retirement.
    7. If 20 or more members submit a petition requesting a special election, board members will be elected by a vote of the full membership. Anyone nominated for the board will be named on the ballot.
    8. The board shall meet approximately monthly.
    9. At least half of the board members must be present for a quorum.
    10. Decisions will be determined by simple majority of board members present.
  4. Board responsibilities.
    1. The board shall set annual dues.
    2. The board shall appoint members to coordinate specific activities.
    3. The board shall be responsible for maintaining the financial health of the organization, and assuring that all funds are spent in accordance with the conditions of incorporation.
    4. Board members are expected to attend meetings, to assist with planning major DCSWA events, and to plan at least one additional event per term.
  5. Amendments
    1. The board can propose amendments to the bylaws, which must then be submitted to the membership for approval by a majority of the votes cast after a voting period of at least two weeks.