Old | New | Changes |
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Preamble | Preamble | |
We, the undergraduate students of Emerson College, in order to establish an effective student government, represent student interests, establish and facilitate all recognized student organizations, act as a liaison between the student body, the administration, and the Board of Trustees, and promote and protect the rights of the students indiscriminate of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex, gender, age, sexual orientation, handicap, or religion do hereby establish this constitution for the Student Government Association of Emerson College. | We, the undergraduate students of Emerson College, in order to establish an effective student government, represent student interests, establish and facilitate all recognized student organizations, act as a liaison between the student body, the administration, and the Board of Trustees, and promote and protect the rights of the students indiscriminate of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex, gender, age, sexual orientation, handicap, or religion do hereby establish this constitution for the Student Government Association of Emerson College. | |
Article 1 | Article I | Article |
Name | Name | |
The name of this organization shall be The Student Government Association of Emerson College. (Hereafter referred to as SGA.) | The name of this organization shall be The Student Government Association of Emerson College. (Hereafter referred to as SGA.) | |
Article 2 | Article II | Article |
Purpose | Purpose | |
The purpose of SGA includes but is not limited to the following: | The purpose of SGA includes but is not limited to the following: | |
Represent student interests, rights, and concerns; | Represent student interests, rights, and concerns; | |
Stimulate student awareness of and involvement in the many organizations, activities, and opportunities available in the Emerson Community; | Stimulate student awareness of and involvement in the many organizations, activities, and opportunities available in the Emerson Community; | |
Promote student awareness and appreciation of the values and traditions of Emerson College and the SGA; | Promote student awareness and appreciation of the values and traditions of Emerson College and the SGA; | |
Enhance communication/cooperation between all segments of the campus community; | Enhance communication/cooperation between all segments of the campus community; | |
And, provide funding for student activities and organizations through a fair and representative annual process. | And, provide funding for student activities and organizations through a fair and representative annual process. | |
Article 3 | Article III | Article |
Membership | Membership | |
Active membership includes all currently registered Emerson College undergraduate students who are enrolled in a degree-granting program and have paid a student activities fee. An active membership entitles individuals to: | Active membership includes all currently registered Emerson College undergraduate students who are enrolled in a degree-granting program and have paid a student activities fee. An active membership entitles individuals to: | |
Vote in all SGA elections; | Vote in all SGA elections; | |
Be represented by SGA officers; | Be represented by SGA officers; | |
Hold SGA office (See Article VII); | Hold SGA office (See Article VII); | |
Participate in SGA sponsored organizations and events; | Participate in SGA sponsored organizations and events; | |
And other rights, privileges, and benefits established by SGA bills, resolutions, and recommendations. | And other rights, privileges, and benefits established by SGA bills, resolutions, and recommendations. | |
Article 4 | Article IV | Article |
Governmental Organization | Governmental Organization | |
The government shall be a democracy based on three branches: the executive (Executive Council), the representative (Senate) and judicial (Chief Justice). | The government shall be a democracy based on three branches: the executive (Executive Officers and Executive Advisory Council), the representative (Senate) and judicial (Chief and Deputy Justices). | The government shall be a democracy based on three branches: the executive (Executive Officers and Executive Advisory Council), the representative (Senate) and judicial (Chief |
Section One: Executive Branch | Section One: Executive Branch | |
The Chief Executive of SGA shall be the President. | The Chief Executive of SGA shall be the President. | |
The executive officers shall be a President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and four Class Presidents. These officers shall be elected and serve a term not to exceed one (1) academic year, unless re-elected. (See Glossary) | The Executive Board shall consist of the following officers: President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary and Cheif Justice. | The |
All elected executive officers shall have one (1) vote in the Executive Council meetings and in the Joint Sessions, with the exception of the President who shall vote only in the case of a tie. (See Article IV, Section One, G.1.g) (See Glossary) | The Executive Board shall meet weekly with the advisor(s) to SGA to discuss pending agenda and business items. | |
The president shall appoint officers who, together with the aforementioned officers, form the Executive Council. | At least once per month, the Class Presidents shall jointly attend an Executive Board meeting. | |
The appointed officers shall consist of the following: | ||
Secretary | ||
Public Relations Commissioner | ||
Multicultural Commissioner | ||
Vice-Treasurer (with Treasurer’s endorsement) | ||
Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, and Transgender Commissioner | ||
Spiritual Life Commissioner | ||
Athletics Commissioner | ||
Greek Life Commissioner | ||
Others as deemed necessary | ||
These officers shall serve a term not to exceed one (1) academic year unless re-appointed. | ||
All appointments to the Executive Council shall be confirmed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of Joint Session | ||
The Executive Council shall meet when deemed necessary by the President. | ||
Powers and Responsibilities of Elected Officers | Powers and Responsibilities of Elected Officers | |
President | President | |
The President is the official representative of the student body. | The President is the official representative of the student body. | |
The President is responsible for executing legislation and directing programs as established by the Senate and Executive Council and provided for in the SGA budget. | The President shall be elected to a term not to exceed one (1) academic year unless re-elected. | The President |
The President must either approve or veto any legislation passed in Joint Session. To veto legislation, the President must submit a written statement of objections to the Senate and the Executive Council within five (5) school days. If the | The President is responsible for executing legislation and directing programs as established by the Senate and Executive Advisory Council and provided for in the SGA budget. | The President |
President does not take action within this specified period, the legislation shall become law. A veto may be overturned by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of a Joint Session. | The President must either approve or veto any legislation passed in Joint Session. To veto legislation, the President must submit a written statement of objections to all SGA officers and advisors within five (5) school days. If the President does not take action within this specified period, the legislation shall become law. A veto may be overturned within five (5) school days by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of a Joint Session. | The President must either approve or veto any legislation passed in Joint Session. To veto legislation, the President must submit a written statement of objections to all SGA officers and advisors within five (5) school days. If the President does not take action within this specified period, the legislation shall become law. A veto may be overturned within five (5) school days by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of a Joint Session. |
The President shall report on the state of the student body at the first and last Joint Session of each academic year. The meetings shall be advertised and promoted throughout the College community. | The President shall report on the state of the student body at the first and last Joint Session of each academic year. The meetings shall be advertised and promoted throughout the College community. | |
The President will appoint all committee members as requested by the College administration. | The President will appoint all committee members as requested by the College administration. | |
The President shall chair all Executive Council and Joint Session meetings and shall only have a vote in the case of a tie. | The President shall chair all Executive Advisory Council and Joint Session meetings and shall only have a vote in the case of a tie. | The President shall chair all Executive Advisory Council and Joint Session meetings and shall only have a vote in the case of a tie. |
The President shall have the power to call special Executive Council and Joint Session meetings as deemed necessary. | The President shall have the power to call special Executive Advisory Council and Joint Session meetings as deemed necessary. | The President shall have the power to call special Executive Advisory Council and Joint Session meetings as deemed necessary. |
The President of SGA shall meet on a regular basis with appropriate members of the College administration. | The President of SGA shall meet on a regular basis with appropriate members of the College administration. | |
The President shall meet bi-weekly with the Dean of Students. | The President shall meet bi-weekly with the Dean of Students. |
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The President shall call an All Student Assembly at least once every academic year. | The President shall call an All Student Assembly at least once every academic year. | |
The President, in conjunction with the Treasurer, is responsible for conducting and overseeing all financial workings of SGA. | The President, in conjunction with the Treasurer, is responsible for conducting and overseeing all financial workings of SGA. |
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Vice-President | Vice-President | |
The Vice-President shall assume the office and duties of the President el>an |
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The Treasurer shall chair all financial appeals hearings. | The Treasurer, in conjunction with the President, Chief Justice, and the Associate Dean of Students, shall investigate any charges of financial misconduct by any SGA funded organization. | The Treasurer, in conjunction with the President, Chief Justice, and the Associate Dean of Students, shall |
The Treasurer shall ensure that all satellite campuses receive their SGA funding at the beginning of each semester. | ||
The Treasurer may endorse a Vice-Treasurer to be appointed by the President and confirmed by Joint Session. | The Treasurer may endorse a Vice-Treasurer to be appointed by the President and confirmed by Joint Session. | |
The Treasurer is responsible for closing the budget for the fiscal year. | The Treasurer is responsible for closing the budget for the fiscal year. | |
The Treasurer of SGA shall meet on a regular basis with the appropriate members of the College administration. | The Treasurer of SGA shall meet on a regular basis with the appropriate members of the College administration. | |
Class Presidents | Class Presidents | |
Class Presidents shall represent the interests and concerns of their respective classes. | Class Presidents shall be elected to a term not to exceed one (1) academic year. | Class Presidents shall |
Class Presidents shall represent the interests and concerns of their respective classes as outlined in their class constitution. | Class Presidents shall represent the interests and concerns of their respective classes as outlined in their class constitution. |
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Class Presidents shall be the liaisons between their respective classes and Joint Session. | Class Presidents shall be the liaisons between their respective classes and Joint Session. |
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Class Presidents shall act as the Chief Executives of their respective class governments and are thus responsible for their conduct. | Class Presidents shall act as the Chief Executives of their respective class governments and are thus responsible for their conduct. | |
Class Presidents shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the president and/or Executive Council. | Class Presidents shall attend Executive Board meetings as requires by Article IV, Section One, Part B.2. | Class Presidents shall |
Powers and Responsibilities of Appointed Officers | In the case that the office of Class President becomes vacant before their term has ended, their seat will be filled according to the procedures outlined in their respective class constitution. | |
Other Officers | Other Officers |
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Secretary | Secretary | |
The Secretary shall record and maintain written records of all Executive Council and Joint Session proceedings. In the absence of the Secretary, the Vice-President shall assume this duty. | Once appointed, the Secretary shall serve until the end of the academic year during which they are appointed. | |
The Secretary shall have a vote in Executive Board meetings. | The Secretary shall have a vote in Executive Board meetings. |
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The Secretary shall record and maintain written records of all Executive Board and Joint Session proceedings. In the absence of the Secretary, the Vice-President shall assume this duty. | The Secretary shall record and maintain written records of all Executive Board and Joint Session proceedings. In the absence of the Secretary, the Vice-President shall assume this duty. |
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The Secretary shall distribute the minutes of each meeting to all officers within forty-eight (48) hours. | The Secretary shall distribute the minutes of each meeting to all officers within forty-eight (48) hours. | |
The Secretary shall post, for public viewing, the minutes of each meeting within forty-eight (48) hours. (See Executive Council By-Laws) | The Secretary shall post, for public viewing, the minutes of each meeting within forty-eight (48) hours. | The Secretary shall post, for public viewing, the minutes of each meeting within forty-eight (48) hours. |
The Secretary shall handle all correspondence as deemed necessary by the President of SGA. | The Secretary shall handle all correspondence as deemed necessary by the President of SGA. | |
The Secretary shall maintain the SGA office in an efficient and organized manner. | The Secretary shall maintain the SGA office in an efficient and organized manner. | |
The Secretary shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | The Secretary shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Board. | The Secretary shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive |
Vice-Treasurer | Vice-Treasurer |
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Once appointed, the Vice-Treasurer shall serve until the end of the academic year during which they are appointed. | Once appointed, the Vice-Treasurer shall serve until the end of the academic year during which they are appointed. |
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The Vice-Treasurer shall assist the Treasurer on all financial proceedings as deemed necessary by the Treasurer. | The Vice-Treasurer shall assist the Treasurer on all financial proceedings as deemed necessary by the Treasurer. |
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The Vice-Treasurer shall attend Joint Session meetings as deemed necessary by the Treasurer. | The Vice-Treasurer shall attend Joint Session meetings as deemed necessary by the Treasurer. |
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The Vice-Treasurer shall be a non-voting member of the Financial Advisory Board. | The Vice-Treasurer shall be a non-voting member of the Financial Advisory Board. |
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The Vice-Treasurer shall take on the financial responsibilities of the SGA in the absence of the Treasurer. | The Vice-Treasurer shall take on the financial responsibilities of the SGA in the absence of the Treasurer. |
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If the office of Treasurer should become vacant at any time during the regular term of office, the Vice-Treasurer shall temporarily assume the office and duties of the Treasurer until such time as a special election has been held to fill the vacancy. | If the office of Treasurer should become vacant at any time during the regular term of office, the Vice-Treasurer shall temporarily assume the office and duties of the Treasurer until such time as a special election has been held to fill the vacancy. |
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The special election shall be called according to the guidelines for special elections put forth in the Elections By-laws. | The special election shall be called according to the guidelines for special elections put forth in the Elections By-laws. |
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The Vice-Treasurer shall be an eligible candidate for the position provided they meet the guidelines set forth for candidacy in Article VII, Section Two, Part A. | The Vice-Treasurer shall be an eligible candidate for the position provided they meet the guidelines set forth for candidacy in Article VII, Section Two, Part A. |
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The Vice-Treasurer shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. | The Vice-Treasurer shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. |
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The Executive Advisory Council shall consist of the President and all appointed Commissioners. | The Executive Advisory Council shall consist of the President and all appointed Commissioners. |
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Once appointed, these officers shall serve until the end of the academic year during which they are appointed. | Once appointed, these officers shall serve until the end of the academic year during which they are appointed. |
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All appointments to the Executive Advisory Council shall be confirmed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of a Joint Session. | All appointments to the Executive Advisory Council shall be confirmed by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of a Joint Session. |
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The Executive Advisory Council shall meet weekly, but may meet more frequently when deemed necessary by the President. | The Executive Advisory Council shall meet weekly, but may meet more frequently when deemed necessary by the President. |
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The Executive Advisory Council, by their third meeting of the semester, shall elect a Vice President, who shall preside over the Executive Advisory Council meetings int he President’s absense. | The Executive Advisory Council, by their third meeting of the semester, shall elect a Vice President, who shall preside over the Executive Advisory Council meetings int he President’s absense. |
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The Executive Advisory Council shall be responsible with planning and executing events and campaigns at the direction of the President, or as referred by Joint Session. | The Executive Advisory Council shall be responsible with planning and executing events and campaigns at the direction of the President, or as referred by Joint Session. |
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The Executive Advisory Council may, at any time, introduce items for consideration to Joint Session. | The Executive Advisory Council may, at any time, introduce items for consideration to Joint Session. |
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Commissioners are responsible for advising the President on the state of their specific constituencies. | Commissioners are responsible for advising the President on the state of their specific constituencies. |
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Commissioners shall be in consistent contact with students that fall under their constituency groups. | Commissioners shall be in consistent contact with students that fall under their constituency groups. |
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Commissioners shall meet at least once a semester with the appropriate offices or staff members that offer services to their specific constituencies. | Commissioners shall meet at least once a semester with the appropriate offices or staff members that offer services to their specific constituencies. |
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Commissioners shall be in consistent contact with the above mentioned officers or staff members throughout their term of office. | Commissioners shall be in consistent contact with the above mentioned officers or staff members throughout their term of office. |
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Powers and Responsibilities of Appointed Officers | Powers and Responsibilities of Appointed Officers |
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Public Relations Commissioner | Public Relations Commissioner | |
The Public Relations Commissioner shall be appointed by the SGA President, and approved by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of Joint Session. | The Public Relations Commissioner shall be appointed by the SGA President, and approved by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of Joint Session. |
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The Public Relations Commissioner shall be the liaison between SGA, the Office of Communications & Marketing, and the student body. | The Public Relations Commissioner shall be the liaison between SGA, the Office of Communications & Marketing, and the student body. |
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The Public Relations Commissioner shall publicize and promote SGA throughout the College community. | The Public Relations Commissioner shall publicize and promote SGA throughout the College community. | |
The Public Relations Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | The Public Relations Commissioner is responsible for maintaining all official SGA communicative channels. | The Public Relations Commissioner |
The Public Relations Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Joint Session. | The Public Relations Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Joint Session. |
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Elections Commissioner | Elections Commissioner |
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The Elections Commissioner shall be appointed by the SGA President, and approved by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of Joint Session. | The Elections Commissioner shall be appointed by the SGA President, and approved by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of Joint Session. |
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The Elections Commissioner shall be responsible for conducting all standard and special elections as they are outlined in the SGA Consitution and the Elections By-Laws. | The Elections Commissioner shall be responsible for conducting all standard and special elections as they are outlined in the SGA Consitution and the Elections By-Laws. |
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The Elections Commissioner may not be a candidate on the ballot during an election they are conducting. | The Elections Commissioner may not be a candidate on the ballot during an election they are conducting. |
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The Elections Commissioenr, upon their appointment, shall form an Elections Committee to help conduct the elections. (See Elections By-laws) | The Elections Commissioenr, upon their appointment, shall form an Elections Committee to help conduct the elections. (See Elections By-laws) |
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In the event of the resignation of the Elections Commissioner, the president may appoint one of the remaining members of the Elections Committee, subject to a two-thirds (2/3) vote of approval from Joint Session. | In the event of the resignation of the Elections Commissioner, the president may appoint one of the remaining members of the Elections Committee, subject to a two-thirds (2/3) vote of approval from Joint Session. |
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Multicultural Commissioner | Multicultural Commissioner | |
The Multicultural Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and culturally based student organizations. | The Multicultural Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, and the cultural community. | The Multicultural Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, and |
The Multicultural Commissioner shall advise SGA on any culturally sensitive matters. | The Multicultural Commissioner shall advise SGA on any culturally sensitive matters. | |
The Multicultural Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Council. | The Multicultural Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of multicultural students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The Multicultural Commissioner shall |
The Multicultural Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of multicultural students with all students at Emerson College. | The Multicultural Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of multicultural students with all students at Emerson College. |
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The Multicultural Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Advisory Council. | The Multicultural Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Advisory Council. |
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Spiritual Life Commissioner | Spiritual Life Commissioner | |
The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and the spiritual community at Emerson. | The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Center for Spiritual Life, and the spiritual community at Emerson. | The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Center for Spiritual Life, and the spiritual community at Emerson. |
The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to Spiritual Life. | The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to Spiritual Life. | |
The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Council. | The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of spiritual students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall |
The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of spiritual students with all students at Emerson College. | The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of spiritual students with all students at Emerson College. |
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The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Advisory Council. | The Spiritual Life Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Advisory Council. |
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Athletics Commissioner | Athletics Commissioner | |
The Athletics Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and the athletics department. | The Athletics Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, SAAC, and the athletics department. | The Athletics Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, SAAC, and the athletics department. |
The Athletics Commissioner shall advise SGA on any sensitive matters pertaining to athletics at Emerson. | The Athletics Commissioner shall advise SGA on any sensitive matters pertaining to athletics at Emerson. | |
The Athletics Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Council. | The Athletics Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of athletic students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The Athletics Commissioner shall |
The Athletics Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of athletic students with all students at Emerson College. | The Athletics Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of athletic students with all students at Emerson College. |
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The Athletics Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Advisory Council. | The Athletics Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Advisory Council. |
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Greek Life Commissioner | Greek Life Commissioner | |
The Greek Life Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and Greek Life. | The Greek Life Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, Greek Council and Greek Life. | The Greek Life Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, Greek Council and Greek Life. |
The Greek Life Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to Greek Life. | The Greek Life Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to Greek Life. | |
The Greek Life Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Council. | The Greek Life Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of Greek Life students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The Greek Life Commissioner shall |
The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Transgender (GLBT) Commissioner | The Greek Life Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of Greek Life students with all students at Emerson College. | The |
The GLBT Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and the GLBT community. | The Greek Life Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Advisory Council. | The |
The GLBT Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to the GLBT community. | The Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (GLBTQ) Commissioner | The |
The GLBT Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Council. | The GLBTQ Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Student Life GLBTQ Resources advisor, and the GLBTQ community. | The |
Vice-Treasurer | The GLBTQ Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to the GLBTQ community. | |
The Vice-Treasurer shall assist the Treasurer on all financial proceedings as deemed necessary by the Treasurer. | The GLBTQ Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of GLBTQ students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The |
The Vice-Treasurer shall have a seat on the Financial Advisory Board and has one (1) vote, except in the annual budget hearings. | The GLBTQ Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of GLBTQ students with all students at Emerson College. | The |
The Vice-Treasurer shall take on the financial responsibilities of the SGA in the absence of the Treasurer. | The GLBTQ Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or the Executive Advisory Council. | The |
The Vice-Treasurer shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | ||
RHA Commissioner | RHA Commissioner | |
The RHA Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and RHA. | The RHA Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, OHRL, RHA and on campus students. | The RHA Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, OHRL, RHA and |
The RHA Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to RHA. | The RHA Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to OHRL, RHA and on campus students. | The RHA Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to OHRL, RHA and on campus students. |
The RHA Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | The RHA Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of on campus students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The RHA Commissioner shall |
The RHA Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of on campus students with all students at Emerson College. | The RHA Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of on campus students with all students at Emerson College. |
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The RHA Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. | The RHA Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. |
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Off Campus Student Commissioner | Off Campus Student Commissioner | |
The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and students living Off Campus . | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Off Campus Student Services office, and students living Off Campus . | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Off Campus Student Services office, and students living Off Campus . |
The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to students living Off Campus. | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to students living off campus. | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to students living |
The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to students living off campus. | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall |
The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of off campus students in the College’s programs, classes, activities a | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of off campus students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. |
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The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of off campus students with all students at Emerson College. | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of off campus students with all students at Emerson College. |
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The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. | The Off Campus Student Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. |
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External Programs Commissioner | External Programs Commissioner | |
The External Programs Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and students at an External Program. | The External Programs Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Office of International Study and External Programs and students at an External Program. | The External Programs Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Office of International Study and External Programs and students at an External Program. |
The External Program Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to students at an external program. | The External Program Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to students at an external program. | |
The External Program Commissioner shall communicate with at least one representative from each of Emerson’s external programs. | The External Program Commissioner shall communicate with at least one representative from each of Emerson’s external programs. | |
The External Programs Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | The External Programs Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of external students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The External Programs Commissioner shall |
The External Programs Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of external students with all students at Emerson College. | The External Programs Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of external students with all students at Emerson College. |
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The External Programs Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. | The External Programs Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. |
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Transfer Student Commissioner | Transfer Student Commissioner | |
The Transfer Student Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and Transfer Students. | The Transfer Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and Transfer Students. | The Transfer |
The Transfer Student Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to Transfer Students. | The Transfer Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to Transfer Students. | The Transfer |
The Transfer Student Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | The Transfer Student Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of transfer students in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The Transfer Student Commissioner shall |
The Transfer Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of transfer students with all students at Emerson College. | The Transfer Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of transfer students with all students at Emerson College. |
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The Transfer Student Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. | The Transfer Student Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. |
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Service Learning Commissioner | Service Learning Commissioner | |
The Service Learning Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA and Service Learning Community. | The Service Learning Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Service Learning and Community Action office and the Service Learning Community. | The Service Learning Commissioner shall serve as the liaison between SGA, the Service Learning and Community Action office and the Service Learning Community. |
The Service Learning Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to the Service Learning community. | The Service Learning Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to the Service Learning community. | |
The Service Learning Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | The Service Learning Commissioner shall advocate for policies that allow for equal access to and representation of students involved in service learning projects in the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The Service Learning Commissioner shall |
The Service Learning Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of students involved in service learning projects with all students at Emerson College. | The Service Learning Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of students involved in service learning projects with all students at Emerson College. |
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The Service Learning Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. | The Service Learning Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Advisory Council. |
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Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner | Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner | |
The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall serve as a liaison between SGA and students with learning, physical, psychological and/or medical disabilities. | The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall serve as a liaison between SGA, the Disability Services Office, and students with learning, physical, psychological and/or medical disabilities. | The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall serve as a liaison between SGA, the Disability Services Office, and students with learning, physical, psychological and/or medical disabilities. |
The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to students with disabilities. | The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall advise SGA on any matters sensitive to students with disabilities. | |
The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall advocate for policies that provide qualified students with disabilities equal access to the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall advocate for policies that provide qualified students with disabilities equal access to the College’s programs, classes, activities and services. | |
The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of students with disability and access issues with all students at Emerson College. | The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall be responsible for raising awareness for needs of students with disability and access issues with all students at Emerson College. | |
The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | The Student Disabilities and Accessibility Commissioner shall take on additional responsibilities as deemed necessary by the President and/or Executive Council. | |
Commissioner’s Council | ||
Representation | ||
The President of SGA shall preside over Commissioner’s Council. All seats in Commissioner’s Council shall have (1) vote each and shall consist of the following positions: | ||
Service Learning Commissioner | ||
Multicultural Commissioner | ||
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Commissioner | ||
Spiritual Life Commissioner | ||
Athletics Commissioner | ||
Greek Life Commissioner | ||
RHA Commissioner | ||
Off Campus Commissioner | ||
External Programs Commissioner | ||
Transfer Student Commissioner | ||
Others as deemed necessary by the President | ||
The Commissioner’s Council shall, by their third meeting of the academic year, elect a Vice-President who shall preside over Commissioner’s Council in the absence of the President. | ||
Powers and Responsibilities | ||
The Commissioner’s Council shall act as the chief liaison between specific student populations and the SGA. | ||
Any commissioner may initiate legislation, initiatives, and acts within Joint Session through motions. A commissioner may not second a motion. | ||
Each commissioner will have one (1) vote in Commissioner’s Council meetings. Commissioner’s Council may pass legislation by a 2/3 vote and then present it to Joint Session to be discussed and voted on. | ||
The commissioner’s council shall meet bi-monthly. More meetings may be called as deemed necessary by the President. | ||
Section Two: Representative Branch | Section Two: Representative Branch | |
Senate | Senate | |
The Vice-President of SGA shall preside over the Senate. All seats in the Senate shall have one (1) vote each and be determined in the following manner | The Vice-President of SGA shall preside over the Senate. All seats in the Senate shall have one (1) vote each and be determined in the following manner: | The Vice-President of SGA shall preside over the Senate. All seats in the Senate shall have one (1) vote each and be determined in the following manner: |
One seat for each degree-granting division of the College | One seat for each degree-granting department of the College | One seat for each degree-granting |
One seat for each class government | One seat for each class government | |
The Senate shall, by their third meeting of the semester, elect a vice president to preside over Senate meetings in the absence of the Vice President. | The Senate shall, by their third meeting of the semester, elect a vice president to preside over Senate meetings in the absence of the Vice President. |
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The Senate shall, by their third meeting of the semester, draft and vote on Senate by-laws. | The Senate shall, by their third meeting of the semester, draft and vote on Senate by-laws. |
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Powers and Responsibilities | Powers and Responsibilities | |
The Senate shall act as the chief liaison between students and the SGA. | The members of the Senate shall act as the chief liaisons between academic departments, class membership and the Joint Session. | The members of the Senate shall act as the chief |
The Senate may initiate legislation, initiatives, and acts within SGA. | The Senate shall initiate legislation, initiatives, and acts and present them to Joint Session. | The Senate |
The Senate shall address all items of business referred to them by Joint Session and the Executive Advisory Council. | The Senate shall address all items of business referred to them by Joint Session and the Executive Advisory Council. |
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Each Senator shall have one (1) vote in Senate and Joint Session meetings. | Each Senator shall have one (1) vote in Senate and Joint Session meetings. | |
The Senate shall meet when deemed necessary by the Vice President. | The Senate shall meet weekly, but may meet more often if deemed necessary by the Vice President. | The Senate shall meet |
Other Duties | Other Duties |
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Departmental senators shall be the official liaisons between their department and Joint Session. | Departmental senators shall be the official liaisons between their department and Joint Session. |
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Class senators shall be the official liaisons between their class and Joint Session. | Class senators shall be the official liaisons between their class and Joint Session. |
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Departmental senators shall be responsible for meeting with their department head at least once a semester. | Departmental senators shall be responsible for meeting with their department head at least once a semester. |
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All Senators shall be responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation as requested by Joint Session for recommendation. | All Senators shall be responsible for creating, debating, and voting on legislation as requested by Joint Session for recommendation. |
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Section Three: Judicial Process | Section Three: Judicial Process | |
The judicial powers of the Student Government Association shall be vested in the Chief Justice. | The judicial powers of the Student Government Association shall be vested in the Chief Justice. | |
Appointment | Appointment | |
The Chief Justice shall be appointed by the SGA President and subject to approval of a Joint Session. | The Chief Justice shall be appointed by the SGA President and subject to approval of a Joint Session. | |
The Chief Justice may remain in office as long as eligibility is maintained, not to exceed eight (8) semesters (summer sessions not included). | The Chief Justice may remain in office as long as eligibility is maintained, not to exceed eight (8) semesters (summer sessions not included). | |
The Chief Justice must have been enrolled at Emerson College for at least one (1) semester prior to appointment. | The Chief Justice must have been enrolled at Emerson College for at least one (1) semester prior to appointment. | |
Duties and Powers | Duties and Powers | |
The Chief Justice shall, upon request of a member of SGA, interpret the Constitution and review the constitutionality of any action or legislation. | The Chief Justice shall, upon request of a member of Joint Session, interpret the Constitution and review the constitutionality of any action or legislation. | The Chief Justice shall, upon request of a member of |
The Chief Justice shall be charged with the responsibility of reviewing all SGA recognized club constitutions to ensure their compliance with the SGA constitution. | The Chief Justice shall be charged with the responsibility of reviewing all SGA recognized club constitutions to ensure their compliance with the SGA constitution. | |
The Chief Justice may enact impeachment proceedings of any SGA officer. (See Article VIII) | The Chief Justice may enact impeachment proceedings of any SGA officer. (See Article VIII) | |
The Chief Justice shall preside over impeachment hearings of all SGA officers in accordance with Article VIII. | The Chief Justice shall preside over impeachment hearings of all SGA officers in accordance with Article VIII. | |
The Chief Justice shall hear all organizational and student grievances and recommend a course of action. | The Chief Justice shall hear all organizational and student grievances and recommend a course of action. | |
The Chief Justice shall oversee all general and special elections. | The Chief Justice, in conjunction with the Elections Commissioner, shall oversee all general and special elections. | The Chief Justice, in conjunction with the Elections Commissioner, shall oversee all general and special elections. |
Deputy Chief Justice | Deputy Chief Justice | |
The SGA President may appoint a Deputy Chief Justice if requested by the Chief Justice (subject to approval of the Joint Session). | The Chief Justice may endorse a candidate for Deputy Chief Justice who is to be appointed by the SGA President, and subject to a two-thirds (2/3) vote of approval of Joint Session. | The |
The Deputy’s duties will include assisting the Chief Justice in his/her duties as requested. | The Deputy’s duties will include assisting the Chief Justice in his/her duties as requested. | |
The Deputy is not required to attend Joint Session meetings, except by the request of the Chief Justice. | The Deputy is not required to attend Joint Session meetings, except by the request of the Chief Justice. |
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The Deputy Chief Justice will assume the authority of the Chief Justice: | The Deputy Chief Justice will assume the authority of the Chief Justice: | |
in the event that the Chief Justice recuses himself/herself from any case. | in the event that the Chief Justice recuses himself/herself from any case. | |
in the absence of the Chief Justice. | in the absence of the Chief Justice. | |
In the case the poth positions are vacant, the President assumes the responsibility of the Chief Justice. | In the case the poth positions are vacant, the President assumes the responsibility of the Chief Justice. |
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In the case that any student feels the President cannot be impartial in a matter, they may request for the Associate Dean of Students to render a ruling. | In the case that any student feels the President cannot be impartial in a matter, they may request for the Associate Dean of Students to render a ruling. |
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If the position of Chief Justice is vacated before the end of an academic year, the Deputy will assume the authority of the Chief Justice until a new appoitnment to the position can be made. | If the position of Chief Justice is vacated before the end of an academic year, the Deputy will assume the authority of the Chief Justice until a new appoitnment to the position can be made. |
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The Deputy Chief Justice may be considered an eligible candidate fo the position. | The Deputy Chief Justice may be considered an eligible candidate fo the position. |
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The term of the Deputy Chief Justice will end when the term of the Chief Justice under whom he/she was appointed has ended. | The term of the Deputy Chief Justice will end when the term of the Chief Justice under whom he/she was appointed has ended. | |
Section Four: Financial Advisory Board | Section Four: Financial Advisory Board | |
The Financial Advisory Board shall have the responsibility to develop and recommend the annual SGA budget, which shall be approved at a Joint Session. | The Financial Advisory Board shall have the responsibility to develop and recommend the annual SGA budget, which shall be approved at a Joint Session meeting to take place before the end of the academic year. | The Financial Advisory Board shall have the responsibility to develop and recommend the annual SGA budget, which shall be approved at a Joint Session meeting to take place before the end of the academic year. |
The annual SGA Budget shall be developed and approved by April 30 of the year before the budget is acclimated. | The annual budget decision meeting shall be chaired by the SGA Treasurer. | The annual |
The annual budget hearings shall be chaired by the newly elected SGA Treasurer, who may only vote in the case of a tie. Voting members shall include the outgoing SGA Treasurer and four (4) non-elected class representatives. The Vice-Treasurer shall sit in as a non-voting member of the board. (See FAB By-Laws) | Voting members shall include the outgoing SGA Treasurer and four (4) class representatives. | |
Additional FAB hearings shall follow the FAB By-Laws. FAB shall allocate eight percent (8%) of the student activities fees collected to the student newspaper, to be dispersed at the beginning of the fall semester. | The Vice-Treasurer shall sit in as a non-voting member of the board. (See FAB By-Laws) | |
FAB shall investigate any charges of financial misconduct by any SGA funded organization. | The incoming SGA Treasurer may, if they elect to do so, sit as a non-voting member of the board if one has been elected. | |
Additional FAB hearings shall follow the FAB By-Laws. | Additional FAB hearings shall follow the FAB By-Laws. |
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All SGA recognized organizations must submit the proper paperwork, as detailed in the guidelines created by the SGA Treasurer in conjunction with the Associate Dean of Students, to be considered for budget allocations by the FAB. | All SGA recognized organizations must submit the proper paperwork, as detailed in the guidelines created by the SGA Treasurer in conjunction with the Associate Dean of Students, to be considered for budget allocations by the FAB. |
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Section Five: Organization Recognition and Review Board (ORRB) | Section Five: Organization Recognition and Review Board (ORRB) | |
The ORRB shall have the responsibility to create or deny any new SGA funded organizations or interest groups. | The ORRB shall have the responsibility to create or deny any new SGA funded organizations or interest groups. | |
The ORRB shall be co-chaired by the Vice President of SGA and the Associate Dean of Students. The ORRB shall consist of one (1) representative from each class, the SGA secretary, and one (1) (optional) faculty member. | The ORRB shall be co-chaired by the Vice President of SGA and the Associate Dean of Students. | The ORRB shall be co-chaired by the Vice President of SGA and the Associate Dean of Students. |
The ORRB shall meet once per semester. | The ORRB shall consist of one (1) representative from each class, and one (1) faculty member. | The ORRB shall |
The faculty representative may be optional pending faculty availability and interest. | The faculty representative may be optional pending faculty availability and interest. |
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The ORRB will conduct the full recognition and review process during the fall semester according to the ORRB by-laws. | The ORRB will conduct the full recognition and review process during the fall semester according to the ORRB by-laws. |
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The board will hold workshops in the spring semester for organizations wishing to prepare for the fall recognition process. | The board will hold workshops in the spring semester for organizations wishing to prepare for the fall recognition process. |
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Additional ORRB hearings shall follow the ORRB By-Laws. | Additional ORRB hearings shall follow the ORRB By-Laws. | |
Section Six: Advisors | Section Six: Advisors | |
There shall be two (2) advisors for this organization: the Associate Dean of Students and a full-time faculty member to be elected by each administration. | There shall be two (2) advisors for this organization: the Associate Dean of Students and a full-time faculty member to be selected by each administration. | There shall be two (2) advisors for this organization: the Associate Dean of Students and a full-time faculty member to be |
The faculty representative shall be contingent upon faculty interest and availability. | The faculty representative shall be contingent upon faculty interest and availability. |
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Article V | Article V | |
Meetings | Meetings | |
All SGA official meetings shall: | All SGA official meetings shall: | |
Follow Robert’s Rules of Order | Follow the most recent edition of Robert’s Rules of Order | Follow the most recent edition of Robert’s Rules of Order |
Be open to all Emerson students. A meeeting may only be closed in the case of a sensitive issue. (See appropriate By-Laws) | Be open to all Emerson students. | Be open to all Emerson students. |
A meeting may only be closed by a motion to enter into executive session in the case of a sensitive issue. | A meeting may only be closed by a motion to enter into executive session in the case of a sensitive issue. |
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Be documented in the form of minutes and include all motions made and votes taken. | Be documented in the form of minutes and include all motions made and votes taken. | |
Quorum shall be obtained when half or more of the voting members are present. | Quorum shall be obtained when half or more of the voting members are present, and is necessary in order to vote on any matter of business. | Quorum shall be obtained when half or more of the voting members are present, and is necessary in order to vote on any matter of business. |
Attendance is required for all elected officers, commissioners, the Secretary and the Chief Justice. | Attendance is required for all elected officers, commissioners, the Secretary and the Chief Justice. |
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Additional attendance requirements shall be outlined in the by-laws for each governing body. | Additional attendance requirements shall be outlined in the by-laws for each governing body. |
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Article VI | Article VI | |
Student Organizations | Student Organizations | |
Recognition Requirements | Recognition Requirements | |
All organizations must have on file an approved constitution. | All organizations must have on file an approved constitution. | |
All organizations must stay within the approved SGA budget allocation set forth by FAB. | All organizations must stay within the approved SGA budget allocation set forth by FAB. | |
All SGA funding must be spent for the benefit of undergraduate students. | All SGA funding must be spent for the benefit of undergraduate students. | |
All SGA funded organizations must be open to all undergraduate students. | All SGA funded organizations must be open to all undergraduate students. | |
All organizations must comply with Registration and Hazing Requirements established by the Office of Student Life. | All organizations must comply with Registration and Hazing Requirements established by the Office of Student Life. | |
Article VII | Article VII | |
Elections and Appointments | Elections and Appointments | |
Section One: Elections | Section One: Elections | |
An Elections Commissioner shall be appointed by the SGA President to conduct all standard and special elections. | The Elections Commissioner shall form an elections committee in order to conduct elections. | |
Elections shall be handled as specifically outlined in the Elections By-Laws. | Elections shall be handled as specifically outlined in the Elections By-Laws. | |
Section Two: Qualifications | Section Two: Qualifications | |
President, Vice-President and Treasurer | President, Vice-President and Treasurer | |
Must have completed one (1) full academic year of enrollment in Emerson College. | Must have completed one (1) full academic year of enrollment in Emerson College. | |
Must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.5 prior to elections and during term of office. | Must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.7 prior to elections and during term of office. | Must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2 |
Must have submitted a petition to run for office to the SGA Elections Commissioner with no less than fifty (50) valid signatures and ID numbers of registered Emerson College undergraduate students. | Must have submitted a petition to run for office to the SGA Elections Commissioner with no less than fifty (50) valid signatures and ID numbers of registered Emerson College undergraduate students. | |
Must comply with all election procedures as stated in Article VII and the Elections By-Laws. | Must comply with all election procedures as stated in Article VII and the Elections By-Laws. | |
Must be an undergraduate student registered and enrolled in a minimum of twelve (12) credits at the Boston campus throughout his/her term. | Must be an undergraduate student registered and enrolled in a minimum of twelve (12) credits at the Boston campus throughout his/her term. | |
All other elected and appointed officers | All other elected and appointed officers | |
Must have a minimum grade point average of 2.5 before the election or appointment and during his/her term of office. If the student is a first semester student, s/he must have approval from his/her academic advisor. | Must have a minimum grade point average of 2.7 before the election or appointment and during his/her term of office. If the student is a first semester student, s/he must have approval from his/her academic advisor. | Must have a minimum grade point average of 2 |
Must comply with all election procedures. | Must comply with all election procedures. | |
Must have submitted a petition to run for office to the SGA Elections Commission with no less than fifty (50) valid signatures and ID numbers of registered Emerson College undergraduate students. | Must have submitted a petition to run for office to the SGA Elections Commission with no less than fifty (50) valid signatures and ID numbers of registered Emerson College undergraduate students. | |
Must be registered and enrolled in a minimum of four (4) credits at the Boston campus throughout their term. | Must be registered and enrolled in a minimum of four (4) credits at the Boston campus throughout their term. | |
Section Three: Seating | Section Three: Seating | |
To be elected, all candidates must receive a majority (at least 51%) of all votes cast in a general election of the entire Emerson College, Boston campus, undergraduate population. In the case that there is no majority, another election must take place within five (5) school days between the two candidates receiving the highest number of votes in the first election. | To be elected, all candidates must receive a majority (at least 51%) of all votes cast in a general election of the entire Emerson College, Boston campus, undergraduate population. In the case that there is no majority, another election must take place within five (5) school days between the two candidates receiving the highest number of votes in the first election. | |
No SGA officer shall serve in more than one (1) branch concurrently. | No SGA officer shall serve in more than one (1) branch concurrently. | |
Senators shall be elected by their respective constituent bodies. Divisional senators may only be elected by undergraduate students majoring in their respective divisions, and class senators shall only be elected by their respective classes. | Senators shall be elected by their respective constituent bodies. Divisional senators may only be elected by undergraduate students majoring in their respective divisions, and class senators shall only be elected by their respective classes. | |
If either the Vice-President or Treasurer position becomes vacant within any given academic year, a special election shall be held under the same guidelines as the original election. If either position becomes vacant in the second semester, the SGA president shall appoint a replacement subject to approval by a Joint Session. (See Elections By-Laws) | If either the Vice-President or Treasurer position becomes vacant within any given academic year, a special election shall be called immediately and shall be held under the special elections guidelines as outlined in the by-laws. | If either the Vice-President or Treasurer position becomes vacant within any given academic year, a special election shall be called immediately and shall be held under the |
If either position becomes vacant in the second semester of an academic year after the general elections process has commenced, the SGA president shall appoint a replacement for the rest of the semester, subject to a two-thirds (2/3) approval by a Joint Session. (See Elections By-Laws) | If either position becomes vacant in the second semester of an academic year after the general elections process has commenced, the SGA president shall appoint a replacement for the rest of the semester, subject to a two-thirds (2/3) approval by a Joint Session. (See Elections By-Laws) |
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Section Four: Timeline | Section Four: Timeline | |
Elections for the following academic year shall be held on either the last Tuesday and Wednesday of March or the first Tuesday and Wednesday of April. | Elections for the following academic year shall be held on either the last Tuesday and Wednesday of March or the first Tuesday and Wednesday of April. | |
The week following elections shall be a mandatory interim training session where all former officers train the newly elected officers. | The period from the election of new officers through the end of the academic year shall be a manditory interim training session where all former officers train the newly elected officers. | The |
There shall be a Joint Session in the week following the training period, where an inaugural ceremony shall pass all powers of office to the incoming administration. | As the last item of business at a Joint Session of the outgoing administration, inaugural ceremony shall pass all powers of office to the incoming administration. | |
Section Five: Standard and Special Elections | Section Five: Standard and Special Elections | |
There shall be one (1) standard SGA election each year. | There shall be one (1) standard SGA election each year. | |
Special elections shall comply with all election procedures and meet all requirements of general elections. (See Elections By-Laws) | Special elections shall comply with all special election procedures as outlined in the Elections By-laws. (See Elections By-Laws) | Special elections shall comply with all special election procedures |
Special elections shall be called by the President of SGA when mandated by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of a Joint Session, or by initiative, referendum, or recall actions. (Refer to Article IX: Sections One, Two, and Three) | Special elections, when not mandated by provisions in the Constitution or by-laws, shall be called by the President of SGA when mandated by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of a Joint Session, or by initiative, referendum, or recall actions. (Refer to Article IX: Sections One, Two, and Three) | Special elections, when not mandated by provisions in the Constitution or by-laws, shall be called by the President of SGA when mandated by a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of a Joint Session, or by initiative, referendum, or recall actions. (Refer to Article IX: Sections One, Two, and Three) |
All elections shall be conducted according to the Australian Ballot System. (See Glossary) | All elections shall be conducted according to the Australian Ballot System. (See Glossary) | |
Article VII | Article VIII | Article |
Impeachments | Impeachments | |
Section One: Grounds for Impeachment | Section One: Grounds for Impeachment | |
Any officer of SGA who knowingly evades his/her duties as set down by this constitution, or commits any act that is determined to be detrimental to the welfare of the student body is subject to impeachment. | Any officer of SGA who knowingly evades his/her duties as set down by this constitution, or commits any act that is determined to be detrimental to the welfare of the student body is subject to impeachment. | |
No officer may be brought up under the same charges twice. | No officer may be brought up under the same charges twice. | |
Section Two: Impeachment Initiation | Section Two: Impeachment Initiation | |
Impeachment proceedings may be initiated by the Chief Justice or a majority (51%) vote of either the Executive Council or the Senate. Initiation is the act of bringing the officer in question up for review before a Joint Session. | If the accused officer is the President, the Vice President shall assume all duties of the President until such time as the proceedings have concluded. | |
Upon review of the officer in question, the impeachment issue shall be tabled until the following Joint Session, where a vote shall be taken as to whether or not to | ||
If the accused officer is the Treasurer, the Vice Treasuer shall assume all duties of the Treasurer until such time as the proceedings have concluded. | If the accused officer is the Treasurer, the Vice Treasuer shall assume all duties of the Treasurer until such time as the proceedings have concluded. |
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If the accused officer is the Chief Justice, the Deputy Justice shall assume all duties of the Chief Justice until such time as the proceedings have concluded. | If the accused officer is the Chief Justice, the Deputy Justice shall assume all duties of the Chief Justice until such time as the proceedings have concluded. |
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Accused officers must abstain from all votes pertaining to the impeachment process. | Accused officers must abstain from all votes pertaining to the impeachment process. |
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Impeachment proceedings may be initiated by the Chief Justice or a majority (51%) vote of the Senate. Initiation is the act of bringing the officer in question up for review before a Joint Session. | Impeachment proceedings may be initiated by the Chief Justice or a majority (51%) vote of the Senate. Initiation is the act of bringing the officer in question up for review before a Joint Session. |
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Notification of the initiation of impeachment proceedings shall be sent to all SGA officers and advisors within 24 hours, or before the next Joint Session meeting, whichever is sooner, in order to continue with the proceedings. | Notification of the initiation of impeachment proceedings shall be sent to all SGA officers and advisors within 24 hours, or before the next Joint Session meeting, whichever is sooner, in order to continue with the proceedings. |
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The review of the complaint and of the officer in question will be the first item of Old Business in the Joint Session immediately following notification. | The review of the complaint and of the officer in question will be the first item of Old Business in the Joint Session immediately following notification. |
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Upon review of the officer in question, a vote shall be taken as to whether or not to continue with impeachment proceedings. | Upon review of the officer in question, a vote shall be taken as to whether or not to continue with impeachment proceedings. |
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A two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of Joint Session is required to continue impeachment proceedings. | A two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of Joint Session is required to continue impeachment proceedings. </td |
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If the motion carries, impeachment proceedings shall begin immediately. The officer charged must be notified in writing within forty-eight (48) hours or the impeachment must be dropped. | The officer charged must be notified in writing — of the impeachment proceedings and their right to appear — within forty-eight (48) hours or the impeachment must be dropped. | |
Section Three: Impeachment Proceedings | Section Three: Impeachment Proceedings | |
The Chief Justice shall preside over all impeachment hearings. In the event that the Chief Justice is accused, the SGA President shall be the presiding officer. | The Chief Justice shall preside over all impeachment hearings. In the event that the Chief Justice is accused, the SGA President shall be the presiding officer. | |
Both the Executive Council and Senate shall be present. | A motion shall be made and seconded to review the officer in question. | |
A motion shall be made to review the officer in question. | ||
The officer in question shall be given the opportunity to speak in his/her defense and offer evidence as s/he deems necessary. | The officer in question shall be given the opportunity to speak in his/her defense and offer evidence as s/he deems necessary. | |
Following full discussion, the motion shall be voted on immediately. | Following full discussion, the motion shall be voted on immediately. | |
If the officer in question holds an appointed position, following a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote to impeach him/her, that officer is terminated. If the officer in question is an elected officer, following a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote to impeach him/her, a special election for impeachment shall be called. (See Article VII, Section Four) | If the officer in question holds an appointed position, following a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote to impeach him/her, that officer is terminated. If the officer in question is an elected officer, following a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote to impeach him/her, a special election for impeachment shall be called. (See Article VII, Section Four) | |
Impeachment elections shall follow the exact guidelines of election. | Impeachment elections shall follow the |
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Article IX | Article IX | |
Initiative, Referendum, Recall | Initiative, Referendum, Recall | |
Section One: Initiative | Section One: Initiative | |
Any member of the student body may initiate legislation by petition. The petition shall have signatures and ID numbers of at least five percent (5%) of the current semester’s enrollment. This petition shall be submitted to the President of the SGA. The President shall present the initiative at a Joint Session, where it shall either be passed or submitted within ten (10) school days to a vote of the student body. At least five percent (5%) of the student body must vote in the election. A majority vote of all votes cast shall be necessary for adoption. (See Glossary) | Any member of the student body may initiate legislation by petition. The petition shall have signatures and ID numbers of at least five percent (5%) of the current semester’s enrollment. This petition shall be submitted to the President of the SGA. The President shall present the initiative at a Joint Session, where it shall either be passed or submitted within ten (10) school days to a vote of the student body. At least five percent (5%) of the student body must vote in the election. A majority vote of all votes cast shall be necessary for adoption. (See Glossary) | |
Section Two: Referendum | Section Two: Referendum | |
All sections of this government shall be subjected to a referendum vote of the student body. A written petition with signatures and ID numbers of at least five percent (5%) of the current semester’s enrollment shall be necessary for referendum. This petition shall be presented to the President of the SGA. The President shall present the referendum at a Joint Session. The Joint Session shall either rescind the action or call an election within ten (10) school days after the filing of the said petition. At least five percent (5%) of the student body must vote in the election. A majority vote (51%) of all votes cast shall be necessary to rescind the action. (See Glossary) | All sections of this government shall be subjected to a referendum vote of the student body. A written petition with signatures and ID numbers of at least five percent (5%) of the current semester’s enrollment shall be necessary for referendum. This petition shall be presented to the President of the SGA. The President shall present the referendum at a Joint Session. The Joint Session shall either rescind the action or call an election within ten (10) school days after the filing of the said petition. At least five percent (5%) of the student body must vote in the election. A majority vote (51%) of all votes cast shall be necessary to rescind the action. (See Glossary) | |
Section Three: Recall | Section Three: Recall | |
All elected officers of this organization shall be subjected to recall by the student body. A written petition with signatures and ID numbers of at least ten percent (10%) of the current semester’s enrollment shall constitute a request for recall. Upon presentation of said petition to a Joint Session of SGA, a recall election shall be called within fifteen (15) school days. A two-thirds (2/3) majority of the votes cast shall be required to recall an elected officer, with this number being at least two-thirds (2/3) the number of votes cast in the officer’s original election. (See Glossary) | All elected officers of this organization shall be subjected to recall by the student body. A written petition with signatures and ID numbers of at least ten percent (10%) of the current semester’s enrollment shall constitute a request for recall. Upon presentation of said petition to a Joint Session of SGA, a recall election shall be called within fifteen (15) school days. A two-thirds (2/3) majority of the votes cast shall be required to recall an elected officer, with this number being at least two-thirds (2/3) the number of votes cast in the officer’s original election. (See Glossary) | |
Article X | Article X | |
Amending Procedure | Amending Procedure | |
Section One | Section One | |
Amendments to this Constitution may be proposed by a three-quarter (3/4) vote of a Joint Session or by a petition signed with ID numbers of at least ten percent (10%) of the current semester’s enrollment of the student body and presented to the Joint Session. | Amendments to this Constitution may be proposed by a three-quarter (3/4) vote of a Joint Session or by a petition signed with ID numbers of at least ten percent (10%) of the current semester’s enrollment of the student body and presented to the Joint Session. | |
Section Two | Section Two | |
Proposed amendments to this Constitution shall be posted on the Boston campus at locations specified by the By-Laws for at least three (3) days, not to exceed ten (10) school days before submission to the students for voting. At least ten percent (10%) of the student body must vote in the election. A simple majority (51%) of all votes cast shall be necessary for adoption. The external campuses shall be notified of any proposed amendments. | Proposed amendments to this Constitution shall be posted on the Boston campus at locations specified by the By-Laws for at least three (3) days, not to exceed ten (10) school days before submission to the students for voting. At least ten percent (10%) of the student body must vote in the election. A simple majority (51%) of all votes cast shall be necessary for adoption. The external campuses shall be notified of any proposed amendments. | |
Article XI | Article XI | |
By-Laws | By-Laws | |
Each branch of this government shall develop and adopt By-Laws to serve as more specific guidelines. | Each branch of this government shall develop and adopt By-Laws to serve as more specific guidelines. | |
These branches include, but are not limited to: Joint Session, Senate, Executive Advisory Council, FAB, and ORRB. | These branches include, but are not limited to: Joint Session, Senate, Executive Advisory Council, FAB, and ORRB. |
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These By-Laws shall elaborate on duties, responsibilities, and objectives set forth by this Constitution, as well as any other guidelines necessary for operation of each prospective branch. | These By-Laws shall elaborate on duties, responsibilities, and objectives set forth by this Constitution, as well as any other guidelines necessary for operation of each prospective branch. | |
By-Laws should be developed and adopted by the second Joint Session of the fall semester. | By-Laws should be developed and adopted by the third meeting of each branch of the fall semester. | By-Laws should be developed and adopted by the |
A majority vote (51%) of each prospective branch is necessary for adoption of their own By-Laws. | A majority vote (51%) of each prospective branch is necessary for adoption of their own By-Laws. | |
Article XII | Article XII | |
Parliamentary Authority | Parliamentary Authority | |
In all instances not covered by the Constitution and By-Laws, the Parliamentary Authority shall be Robert’s Rules of Order (Revised). | In all instances not covered by the Constitution and By-Laws, the Parliamentary Authority shall be Robert’s Rules of Order (Revised). | |
Article XIII | Article XIII | |
Adoption | Adoption | |
This Constitution, upon ratification by a majority of the votes cast in an election, has been in effect as of November 30, 1999. | This Constitution, upon ratification by a majority of the votes cast in an election, has been in effect as of November 30, 1999. | |
Glossary | Glossary | |
Australian Ballot System: An official ballot listing candidates for election to public office and distributed inside the polling place to be marked by the voter in secret: it originated in Australia and is widely used in the United States. This is the voting format that will be used for SGA Elections. (See Article VII) | Australian Ballot System: An official ballot listing candidates for election to public office and distributed inside the polling place to be marked by the voter in secret: it originated in Australia and is widely used in the United States. This is the voting format that will be used for SGA Elections. (See Article VII) | |
By Laws: A secondary law or rule adopted by an organization or assembly for governing its own meetings or affairs. | By Laws: A secondary law or rule adopted by an organization or assembly for governing its own meetings or affairs. | |
Initiative: The right of a legislature to introduce new legislation on some specified matter; the right of a group of citizens to introduce a matter for legislation either to the legislature or directly to the voters; the procedure by which such matters are introduced, usually a petition signed by a percentage of the voters. (See Article IX, Section One) | Initiative: The right of a legislature to introduce new legislation on some specified matter; the right of a group of citizens to introduce a matter for legislation either to the legislature or directly to the voters; the procedure by which such matters are introduced, usually a petition signed by a percentage of the voters. (See Article IX, Section One) | |
Joint Session: A meeting where the Executive Council and the Senate meet together; this meeting takes place every other week. | Joint Session: A meeting where the Executive Council and the Senate meet together; this meeting takes place every other week. | |
Organizational Recognition and Review Board: A recognition and review board for the student organizations of Emerson College. It is run by the Office of Student Life. | Organizational Recognition and Review Board: A recognition and review board for the student organizations of Emerson College. It is run by the Office of Student Life. | |
Recall: The process of removing, or right to remove, an official from office by popular vote. (See Article IX, Section Three) | Recall: The process of removing, or right to remove, an official from office by popular vote. (See Article IX, Section Three) | |
Referendum: The submission of a law, proposed or already in effect, to a direct vote of the people; the right of the people to vote directly on such laws, superceding or overruling the legislature; the vote itself. (See Article IX, Section Two) | Referendum: The submission of a law, proposed or already in effect, to a direct vote of the people; the right of the people to vote directly on such laws, superceding or overruling the legislature; the vote itself. (See Article IX, Section Two) | |
Term: A set period of time; duration of time in which an officer may hold office (1 academic year) (See Article IV, Section One) | Term: A set period of time; duration of time in which an officer may hold office (1 academic year) (See Article IV, Section One) | Term: A set period of time; duration of time in which an officer may hold office (1 academic year) (See Article IV, Section One) |
Proposed Changes to the SGA Constitution
December 3, 2011
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