Constitution and Bylaws of My Healthy Nova: A Force for Health Chapter

Constitution

Article I: Name 

The name of this organization shall be “My Healthy Nova: A Force for Health Chapter” (hereinafter referred to as “the Chapter”).

Article II: Mission Statement

The mission of the My Healthy Nova: A Force for Health Chapter is to empower students to prioritize their health and safety, enabling them to contribute to the well-being of others. Through the “Learn it, Live it, Share it” philosophy, the Chapter provides resources, support, and opportunities for students to become proactive health advocates within their families and communities.

Article III: Purpose

The purpose of the Chapter is to: 

1. Promote personal health and wellness among members and the wider community.
2. Provide educational opportunities on health-related topics.
3. Encourage community service in partnership with local health organizations.
4. Support leadership and professional development in the health field.
5. Foster collaboration among students, faculty, staff, and community members to create a healthier environment.

Article IV: Membership

1. Eligibility: Membership shall be open to all students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community members with an interest in health and wellness.
2. Types of Membership:

  General Membership: Open to all interested individuals at no cost. 

   Upgraded Membership: Optional for those seeking additional resources, leadership opportunities, and access to exclusive events, with a fee allocated to support the Chapter’s initiatives.

Article V: Officers and Leadership Structure

1.) Officer Positions: The leadership structure of the Chapter shall consist of the following officers: 

   President

   Vice President

   Secretary

   Treasurer

   Committee Chairs (e.g., Education, Community Projects, Fundraising)

2. Terms of Office: Officers shall serve a one-year term, with the possibility of re-election for consecutive terms.

3. Election Process:

   – Elections shall be held annually in April, with newly elected officers assuming office at the end of the academic year. 

   – Nominations for officer positions shall be submitted at least two weeks before elections. 

   – Voting shall be by a simple majority of the general membership present at the election meeting.

Article VI: Meetings

1. **General Meetings:**

   – General meetings shall be held monthly to discuss upcoming events, projects, and other Chapter-related matters. 

   – The date, time, and location of each meeting shall be determined by the executive board and communicated to members in advance.

2. **Board Meetings:**

   – The executive board shall meet bi-monthly to plan activities and address leadership matters. 

   – Additional board meetings may be called by the President or any other officer when necessary.

Article VII: Amendments

1. **Amendment Proposal:** Amendments to the Constitution may be proposed by any member of the Chapter. Proposals must be submitted in writing to the executive board.
2. **Amendment Process:** Amendments shall be discussed at the next general meeting and must be approved by a two-thirds majority of the voting members present.

Bylaws

Article I: Duties of Officers

1. President:

   – Presides over meetings and represents the Chapter at official events. 

   – Ensures the Chapter’s mission and objectives are upheld. 

   – Oversees the development and implementation of Chapter activities. 

   – Acts as a liaison between the Chapter and university administration. 

2. Vice President:

   – Assists the President and assumes their duties in their absence. 

   – Coordinates the activities of committees and oversees internal communications. 

3. Secretary:

   – Keeps accurate minutes of meetings and maintains records of all Chapter activities. 

   – Manages membership rosters and ensures members are informed about upcoming events. 

4. Treasurer:

   – Manages Chapter finances, prepares budgets, and reports on financial matters. 

   – Coordinates fundraising efforts and ensures funds are allocated appropriately. 

5. Committee Chairs:

   – Lead their respective committees in planning and executing projects. 

   – Report committee activities to the Vice President and general membership

Article II: Committees

Standing Committees:

Education Committee: Organizes workshops, seminars, and other educational initiatives. 

Community Projects Committee: Plans and executes service-learning projects and partnerships with health organizations. 

Fundraising Committee: Organizes fundraising events and manages scholarships. 

Special Committees:  Special committees may be formed at the discretion of the executive board to address specific tasks or projects.

Article III: Finances

1. Membership Fees: The Chapter may charge a fee for upgraded memberships to fund activities and scholarships.
2. Fundraising: The Chapter shall host fundraising events to support its activities and community service projects.
3. Budget: The Treasurer shall prepare an annual budget, which must be approved by the executive board.

Article IV: Disciplinary Actions and Conflict Resolution

1. Grounds for Disciplinary Action:

   An officer or member may face disciplinary action for: 

   – Failure to fulfill the duties of their office or position. 

   – Misconduct that disrupts the operations or damages the reputation of the Chapter. 

   – Violation of the Chapter’s mission, policies, or the university’s code of conduct.

2. **Disciplinary Process:**

   – **Notice:** The member or officer in question shall be notified of the alleged infraction in writing. 

   – **Investigation:** A committee composed of at least three executive board members shall investigate the situation and gather information. 

   – **Hearing:** The member or officer shall have the opportunity to present their case at a disciplinary hearing. 

   – **Decision:** After deliberation, the executive board may impose any of the following sanctions by a two-thirds majority vote: 

     – **Warning:** A formal written warning outlining the issue and corrective action required. 

     – **Probation:** Temporary suspension of privileges, including voting rights and participation in leadership activities. 

     – **Removal from Office:** In the case of an officer, they may be removed from their position if they fail to meet the responsibilities of their office. Removal requires a two-thirds vote by the executive board. 

     – **Expulsion:** A member may be expelled from the Chapter for severe violations, subject to a two-thirds majority vote by the executive board.

3. **Appeals:**

   – Any disciplinary decision may be appealed in writing to the executive board within 14 days of the decision. 

   – A separate committee, appointed by the President, shall review the appeal and make a final determination.

4. **Conflict Resolution:**

   – In the event of an internal conflict or disagreement between officers, the President (or Vice President if the President is involved) shall mediate the conflict. 

   – If mediation fails, the issue may be brought before the general membership for a vote.

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**Article V: Dissolution** 

In the event of dissolution, any remaining funds after debts have been paid shall be donated to a health-related charity or organization, as determined by a majority vote of the executive board. All assets of the Chapter shall be returned to Villanova University or distributed in accordance with university policies.

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**Adoption of the Constitution and Bylaws** 

This Constitution and Bylaws shall take effect immediately upon approval by a two-thirds majority vote of the founding members of My Healthy Nova: A Force for Health Chapter and the Office of Student Involvement at Villanova University.

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Notes:

Advocacy: for students