Student Government Association Constitution

The Student Government Association of Indiana University Northwest established the below constitution:

*To provide an official and representative undergraduate student organization;
*To provide undergraduates a voice in the affairs of the University;
*To investigate undergraduate problems and to take appropriate action;
*To establish a community of undergraduate student life;
*To provide a place for students to bring problems to student leaders

The Constitution of the Indiana University Northwest Student Association

Preamble

We, the members of the Student Government Association (SGA) of Indiana University Northwest, desiring to provide a form of government and expression for student views and interests; to maintain academic freedom, academic responsibility, and student rights; to improve student social, cultural, and physical welfare; to develop better educational standards, facilities, and teaching methods; to help promote international understanding and fellowship at the student level; and to foster recognition of the rights of students in this school and in this community, do hereby establish this Constitution.

ARTICLE I. NAME

The official name of this organization shall be the Student Government Association, hereinafter referred to as SGA.

ARTICLE II. MEMBERSHIP

Section One: Composition.

The SGA shall consist of the following:

1. 1st Cabinet of executive officers elected during the spring semester;
2. 2nd Cabinet of executive members elected during the spring semester;
3. Senate Cabinet elected during the spring semester;
4. Ex-officio, the Director of Student Life.

Section Two: 1st Cabinet: Executive Officers.

The 1st Cabinet of executive officers of the SGA shall be a President, Vice President, Head Secretary, and Treasurer.

A. Qualifications.

1. Qualifications for President:

The President leads the Student Government Association. The individual must have already served on SGA as either a Senator or an Officer, have a minimum of a 3.0 grade point average, and have a filled petition sheet for this position. The individual must attend at least 90% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The individual will act as Chair or Executive, and when needed, Senate meetings of the SGA. The President must be visibly present at events promoted by the SGA; either in as a volunteer or an attendee. The President must meet regularly with the Chancellor to discuss SGA legislation and other relevant business pertaining to the campus and/or the student body. The President must represent the SGA and student body during campus community meetings and appoint the Vice President as Parliamentarian. The individual will communicate the will and actions of the SGA to administration and faculty. The President serves as an ex-officio member of SGA committee and perform other duties, as described by the SGA bylaws or any parliamentary authority adopted by the SGA. The President must participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA President-Elect.

2. Qualifications for Vice-President:

The Vice President leads the Student Government Association. The individual must have already served on SGA as either a Senator or an Officer, have a minimum of a 3.0 grade point average and have a filled petition sheet for this position. The individual must attend at least 90% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The Vice President must be visibly present at events promoted by the SGA; either in as a volunteer or an attendee. The individual will correspond regularly with the Dean of Students and communicate updates to the SGA. The Vice President communicates legislation and other SGA business to the President. In absence of the President, the Vice President will take up the responsibilities of the President in meetings. The Vice President oversees and handles processes relating to an SGA member’s resignation. The Vice President must participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Vice President-Elect.

3. Qualifications for Treasurer:

The Treasure oversees the budget of SGA and regularly reports available funds for SGA’s use and distribution to clubs. The individual must have already served on SGA as either a Senator or an Officer and have a minimum of a 2.5 grade point average. The individual must attend at least 90% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The individual should attend, or, if needed, volunteer at events promoted by SGA. The Treasurer is to maintain a record of SGA funds and SGA funded clubs, and, upon request, make available the financial records  of the SGA to members of the University administration. The Treasurer acts as a Student Activities Fund Trustee and oversees distribution of funds to clubs/organized events. The individual works with the President and the Director of Student Life to order items the SGA needs, or items that to be made available to the student body at campus events. The Treasure must participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Treasurer-Elect.

4. Qualifications for Head Secretary:

The Head Secretary oversees the Senate along with the Senate Speaker and Senate Secretary. The individual must have already served on SGA as either a Senator or an Officer and have a minimum of a 2.5 grade point average. The individual must attend at least 90% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The individual maintains a record the proceeding of the SGA as a whole. The Head Secretary prepares, prior to each meeting of the Executive Board, an order of business to be distributed to members of the Board, showing the exact order, under the correct headings, matters known in advance that are due to come up and, if applicable, the times for which they are set. The individual must be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The Head Secretary maintains the SGA’s official membership roll, documents absences and reports them to the SGA for disciplinary action, maintains records in which SGA documentation and bylaws are entered, and records meeting minutes. The Head Secretary must participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Head Secretary-elect

1. Candidates must run for office singularly; they may not run on a “ticket”.
2. Candidates running for an executive office must not have made or must not make a commitment to study abroad due to the need to be present on campus and fulfill obligations.

E. Timing and Determination.

1. The student body shall elect executive officers annually by ballot during the month of April. The candidate for each office receiving the greatest number of votes shall be elected. In the event that two candidates for an office receive an equal number of votes, the winner of the office will be determined by an in- person vote from the current members of the SGA in which all members must be If a current SGA member is involved in the tie, the member must excuse him/herself from the vote.
2. Member Retention: Current SGA members seeking re-election to 1st Cabinet must give prior notification no later than 2-weeks prior to the election date. Since 1stCabinet positions are only open for current SGA members, if any position remains vacant, Section II, Article D3 will be enforced by the 1st
3. If there is only one candidate running for any of the 1st cabinet positions, that office may be filled by acclamation.

F. Term of Office.

The term shall begin the week following elections upon swearing in. The term of office shall be one year (2 semesters) or until a successor is elected and inducted.

A. Removal, Resignation and Vacancies.

5. Removal. An executive officer shall be removed for the following reasons:
   1. Failure to maintain the minimum required cumulative grade point average, as verified by the College Registrar.
   2. As a result of successful disciplinary proceedings against an executive officer in which removal from office is the recommended sanction.
   3. He or she cannot fulfill the duties described in this Constitution (Article II).
   4. He or she is not fit for duty, or circumstances are impeding the ability to execute their obligations.
   5. Under any and all circumstances, a majority vote in person at a regular or special meeting is required for the removal of an Executive Officer in which current members of the SGA must be present.
6. Resignation. An executive officer may resign by submitting a request in writing to the SGA Vice President. A resignation is effective upon receiving a majority of the legal votes cast in a regular SGA meeting at which the request is considered. If a member resigns, this member cannot run for office in the future until meeting with the Directory of Student Life to discuss eligibility to run.
7. Vacancies. With the exception of the office of the President, which shall be filled by the Vice President, vacancies in executive offices shall be filled by the candidate from within the SGA receiving the greatest number of ballot votes at a primary or special election of the SGA for which notice of the vacancy has been given to members of the SGA at least fourteen (14) days prior to the election.

Section Three: 2nd Cabinet: Executive Members.

The 2nd Cabinet of executive officers of the SGA shall be a Senate Secretary, Senate Speaker, and Head of Communications.

A. Qualifications.

1. Qualifications for Senate Secretary:

The Senate Secretary should be present for the Senate meetings. The individual prepares, prior to each meeting, an order of business to be distributed to members of the SGA, showing the exact order, under the correct headings, matters known in advance that are due to come up and, if applicable, the times for which they are set. The individual should have a minimum of 2.0 grade point average and have completed at least nine (9) semester credit hours. The individual must attend at least 90% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The Senate Secretary will deal directly with the Senate. The Senate Secretary works directly with the Head Secretary and meets with the Head Secretary biweekly (every two weeks). The individual should be present at the Senate meeting and take minutes. These minutes will be delivered to the Head Secretary.

2. Qualifications for Senate Speaker:

The Senate Speaker should be present for the Senate meetings. The individual should have a minimum of 2.0 grade point average and have completed at least nine (9) semester credit hours. The individual must attend at least 90% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The Senate Speaker will deal directly with the Senate. They will administer the legislation among the Senate. The Senate Speaker works directly Vice President on all legislation and matters of the Senate. The Senate Speaker should meet with the Vice President biweekly (every two weeks).

3. Qualifications for Head of Communications:

The Head of Communication will be in charge of the interclub committee and responsible for creating the online polls for various meetings throughout the semester and keeping track of results of the polls when received. The individual should have a minimum of 2.0 grade point average and have completed at least nine (9) semester credit hours. The individual must attend at least 90% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The Head of Communication will also be in charge of helping with SGA meetings and tables that are directed at the student body. They will be in charge in keeping all the social media outlets up to date every week after meetings are finished and informing students about important and major events held on campus by various clubs. Social media includes sites such as The Redhawklink, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and any other social media outlet.

4. Candidates running for 2nd Cabinet positions must not have made or must not make a commitment to study abroad due to the need to be present on campus and fulfill obligations.

B. Timing and Determination.

1. The student body shall elect 2nd Cabinet executive members annually by ballot during the month of April. The candidate for each office receiving the greatest number of votes shall be elected. In the event that two candidates for an office receive an equal number of votes, the winner of the office will be determined by an in-person vote from the current members of the SGA in which all members must be present. If a current SGA member is involved in the tie, the member must excuse him/herself from the vote.
2. Member Retention: Current SGA members seeking re-election to 2nd Cabinet must give prior notification no later than 2-weeks prior to the election date. If any position remains vacant, Section III, Article D3 will be enforced by the 1st
3. If there is only one candidate running for any of the 2nd Cabinet positions, that office may be filled by acclamation.

C. Term of Office.

The term shall begin the week following elections upon swearing in. The term of office shall be one year (2 semesters) or until a successor is elected and inducted.

D. Removal, Resignation and Vacancies.

1. Removal. A 2ndCabinet member shall be removed for the following reasons:
   1. Failure to maintain the minimum required cumulative grade point average, as verified by the College Registrar.
   2. As a result of successful disciplinary proceedings against a 2nd Cabinet member in which removal from office is the recommended sanction.
   3. He or she cannot fulfill the duties described in this Constitution (Article II).
   4. He or she is not fit for duty, or circumstances are impeding the ability to execute their obligations.
   5. Under any and all circumstances, a majority vote in person at a regular or special meeting is required for the removal of a 2nd Cabinet member in which current members of the SGA must be present.
2. Resignation. 2nd Cabinet member may resign by submitting a request in writing to the SGA Vice President. A resignation is effective upon receiving a majority of the legal votes cast in a regular SGA meeting at which the request is considered. If a member resigns, this member cannot run for office in the future until meeting with the Directory of Student Life to discuss eligibility to run.
3. Vacancies. Vacancies in the 2nd Cabinet shall be filled by the candidate from within the SGA receiving the greatest number of ballot votes at a primary or special election of the SGA for which notice of the vacancy has been given to members of the SGA at least fourteen (14) days prior to the election.

Section Four: The Senate.

The Senate of SGA shall be composed of six (6) Senators, a College of Arts and Sciences Representative, a School of Arts Representative, a School of Business Representative, a School of Education Representative, and a Health and Human Services Representative.

A. Qualifications.

1. Qualifications for Senators:

Senators must have completed at least nine (9) semester credit hours with a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 and have spent at least one (1) semester immediately preceding their term of office as a student of the Northwest campus. Senators shall be enrolled in at least nine (9) credit hours per semester during their term of office. The individual must attend at least 80% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee.

2. Qualifications for the College of Arts and Science Representative:

The College of Arts and Sciences Representative is the voice of the College of Arts and Sciences school on campus. This individual will make legislation that will be approved by the Head of the Senate. This position is for a current student that has completed at least nine (9) semester credit hours and is majoring in a field under the College of Arts and Sciences. The individual must attend at least 80% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The individual should have a minimum of 2.0 grade point average and a written statement of intention as to why they are running for school representative and why they would be the most qualified candidate.

3. Qualifications for the School of Arts Representative:

The School of Arts Representative is the voice of the School of Arts on campus. This individual will make legislation that will be approved by the Head of the Senate. This position is for a current student that has completed at least nine(9) semester credit hours and is majoring in a field under the School of Arts.  The individual must attend at least 80% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The individual should have a minimum of 2.0 grade point average and a written statement of intention as to why they are running for school representative and why they would be the most qualified candidate.

4. Qualifications for the School of Business Representative:

The School of Business Representative is the voice of the School of Business on campus. This individual will make legislation that will be approved by the Head of the Senate. This position is for a current student that has completed at least nine (9) semester credit hours and is majoring in a field under the School of Business. The individual must attend at least 80% of the meetings and events  per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The individual should have a minimum of 2.0 grade point  average and a written statement of intention as to why they are running for school representative and why they would be the most qualified candidate.

5. Qualifications for the School of Education Representative:

The School of Education Representative is the voice of the School of Education on campus. This individual will make legislation that will be approved by the Head of the Senate. This position is for a current student that has completed at least nine (9) semester credit hours and is majoring in a field under the School of Education. The individual must attend at least 80% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The individual should have a minimum of 2.0 grade point  average and a written statement of intention as to why they are running for school representative and why they would be the most qualified candidate.

6. Qualifications for the Health and Human Services Representative:

The Health and Human Services Representative is the voice of the School of Health and Human Services on campus. This individual will make legislation that will be approved by the Head of the Senate. This position is for a current student that has completed at least nine (9) semester credit hours and is majoring in a field under the School of Health and Human Services. The individual must attend at least 80% of the meetings and events per semester, and be a currently serving and active member of an SGA or campus committee. The individual should have a minimum of 2.0 grade point average and a written statement of intention as to why they are running for school representative and why they would be the most qualified candidate.

7. Candidates running for any position of the Senate must not have made or must not make a commitment to study abroad due to the need to be present on campus and fulfill obligations.

E. Timing and Determination.

1. The student body shall elect the Senate annually by ballot in April. The candidates receiving the greatest number of votes shall be elected (plurality). In the event that two (2) candidates receive an equal number of votes for the final available office, the winner of the office will be determined by an in-person vote from the current members of the SGA in which all members must be present. If a current SGA member is involved in the tie, the member must excuse him/herself from the vote.

F. Term of Office.

The term shall begin the week following elections upon swearing in. The term of office shall be one year (2 semesters) or until a successor is elected and inducted.

G. Removal, Resignation and Vacancies.

2. Removal. A Senate member shall be removed for the following reasons:
   2. Failure to maintain a minimum 2.0 cumulative grade point average, as verified by the College Registrar.
   3. As a result of successful disciplinary proceedings against a Senate member in which removal from office is the recommended sanction.
   4. He or she cannot fulfill the duties described in this Constitution (Article III).
   5. He or she is not fit for duty, or circumstances are impeding the ability to execute their obligations.
   6. Under any and all circumstances, a majority vote in person at a regular or special meeting is required for the removal of a Senate member in which current members of the SGA must be present.
3. Resignation. A Senate member may resign by submitting a request in writing to the SGA Vice President. A resignation is effective upon receiving a majority of the legal votes cast in person at a regular SGA meeting at which the request is considered. If a member resigns, this member cannot run for office in the future until meeting with the Director of Student Life to discuss eligibility to run.
4. Vacancies. A Senate vacancy shall be filled by the candidate receiving the greatest number of ballot votes at a primary of the SGA for which notice of the vacancy has been given to the student body at least fourteen (14) days prior to the Said election must occur during the special election.

Section Five: Compensation.

1. President, Vice–President, Head Secretary, Treasurer, Senate Secretary, Senate Speaker, Head of Communications, and Representatives shall receive monetary compensation for their service at the end of each semester after evaluating the status of each member within the SGA to be sure that all duties were satisfactorily carried out. If a member were to move up in position at any point within the semester, they will receive the said stipend amount based on their current position within the SGA at the end of the semester. The stipend amount awarded to each member will be ultimately determined by the Director of Student Life and the President based on money available for the semester and the contributions of each member.
2. The Senate of the SGA are on a voluntary basis.

Section Six: Advisor.

The Advisor of the SGA shall be the Director of Student Life, or his/her designee. The Advisor shall be a non-voting member of SGA and shall not count toward the determination of quorum.

Article III. DUTIES

Section One: The President.

The President of SGA shall:

1. Attend at least 90% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.
2. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings. For this particular position, some committees require complete, full attendance and commitment.
3. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
4. Chair regular and special meetings of the SGA.
5. Represent the SGA at Indiana University Northwest functions, as well as at Indiana University Northwest events and regional campus events, including but not limited to Board of Trustee meetings, ASGA meetings, AUSA meetings, presentations, etc.
6. Meet regularly with the Chancellor to discuss upcoming events or situations of importance.
7. Represent the SGA and student body during Town Hall meetings and/or campus community focus meetings.
8. Appoint the Vice President as Parliamentarian.
9. Serve as an ex-officio member of SGA committees.
10. Assist the Treasurer in the preparation of an annual budget.
11. Communicate the will and actions of the SGA to administration and faculty.
12. Appoint chairmen to SGA committees.
13. Participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA President-Elect.
14. Perform other duties as prescribed in these bylaws, or in the parliamentary authority adopted by the SGA.

Section Two: The Vice President.

The Vice President of SGA shall:

1. Attend at least 90% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.
2. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings.
3. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
4. Chair regular and special meetings of the SGA in the absence of the President.
5. Chair regular and special meeting of the SGA in the absence of the President.
6. Communicate legislation and other SGA business to the President.
7. Serve as the Parliamentarian, and a non-voting member of SGA committees.
8. Convene and chair the Student Officers’ Forums.
9. Oversee and handle process relating to a member’s resignation.
10. Participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Vice President-Elect.
11. Perform other duties as prescribed in these bylaws, or in the parliamentary authority adopted by the SGA.

Section Three: The Head Secretary.

The Secretary of SGA shall:

6. Attend at least 90% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.
7. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings.
8. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
9. Maintain a record of the proceedings of the SGA.
10. Prepare, prior to each meeting, an order of business to be distributed to members of the SGA, showing the exact order, under the correct headings, matters known in advance that are due to come up and, if applicable, the times for which they are set. Members of SGA should submit a request for the agenda at least 24 hours prior to the official meeting date and should send the request(s) to the Secretary electronically. The Secretary, prior to the meeting, shall then send all members a copy of the agenda.
11. Maintain the SGA’s official membership roll and call the roll when it is requested.
12. Document absences and report them to the SGA for action.
13. Maintain record book(s) in which this Constitution, the bylaws, minutes, and any other documents are entered, with any amendments to these documents properly recorded, and have the current record book(s) on hand at every meeting.
14. Make the minutes and records available to members upon In addition, one hard copy of all records should be on file and available to access in the SGA office, as well as an electronic version of the records at a central site available to SGA members.
15. Participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Secretary-Elect.
16. Perform other duties as prescribed in these bylaws, or in the parliamentary authority adopted by the SGA.

Section Four: The Treasurer.

The Treasurer of SGA shall:

1. Attend at least 90% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.
2. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings.
3. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
4. Prepare an annual budget and present it to the SGA for approval.
5. Maintain a record of SGA funds and SGA funded accounts, as well as SAFT funding.
6. Oversee the distribution of funds and make financial reports at each regular meeting of the SGA.
7. Make available upon request the financial records of the SGA to members of the University administration.
8. Serve as a Student Activities Fund Trustee and oversee distribution of funds to clubs/organizations for events.
9. Participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Treasurer-Elect.
10. Work with the President and Director of Student Life to order items that the SGA needs, or items that would be available to the student body at campus events.
11. Perform other duties as prescribed in these bylaws, or in the parliamentary authority adopted by the SGA.

Section Five: The Senators.

All six (6) Senators of SGA shall:

1. Attend at least 80% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.
2. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings.
3. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
4. Represent the Indiana University Northwest student body at meetings of the SGA.
5. Obtain student reports prior to Senate meetings
6. Vote on matters of concern to the Indiana University Northwest student meetings.
7. Serve on the SGA committees to which they are appointed.
8. The Senators shall protect and enforce the constitution of SGA

Section Six: The Senate Secretary.

The Senate Secretary of SGA shall:

1. Attend at least 90% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.
2. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings.
3. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA
4. The Senate Secretary must be present for the Senate
5. The individual prepares, prior to each meeting, an order of business to be distributed to members of the SGA, showing the exact order, under the correct headings, matters known in advance that are due to come up and, if applicable, the times for which they are
6. Maintain a record of the proceedings of the SGA and make the minutes and records available to members upon
7. Document absences at Senate meetings and report them to the SGA for

Section Seven: The Senate Speaker.

The Senate Speaker of SGA shall:

1. Attend at least 90% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.

2. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings.
3. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA
4. The Senate Speaker will deal directly with the They will administer the legislation among the Senate.
5. The Senate Speaker works directly with the Vice President on all legislation and matters of
6. The Senate Speaker should meet with the Vice President

Section Eight: The Head of Communications.

The Head of Communications of SGA shall:

1. Attend at least 90% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.
2. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings.
3. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
4. Head the interclub committee and responsible for creating the online polls for various meetings throughout the semester and keeping track of results of the polls when received
5. The Head of Communications will be in charge in keeping all the social media outlets up to date every week after meetings are finished and informing students about important and major events held on campus by various clubs. Social media includes sites such as The Redhawklink, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and any other social media outlet.

Section Nine: Representatives.

The College of Arts and Sciences, School of Arts, School of Business, School of Education, and Health and Human Services Representatives of SGA shall:

1. Attend at least 80% of the regular meetings and events of the SGA per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Secretary—at a regular meeting—3 times per semester, in equal thirds.
2. Be a currently serving and active member, at any point in time, on at least one committee, whether it be an SGA committee or campus committee. More involvement may be expected during some academic years than in others based on the number of committees available and need for members, as called upon by the President. Active membership is defined as attending at least half of all committee meetings.

3. Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate at least half of the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
4. Represent the Indiana University Northwest specific school assigned at meetings of the SGA.
5. Vote on matters of concern to the Indiana University Northwest specific school assigned.
6. Serve on the SGA committees to which they are appointed.
7. Meet with the Dean of the respected school throughout the school year and discuss matters that pertain to the specific school that will benefit the student life of the students.
8. Create questionnaires for the students in the specific school assigned to address any concerns.

Section Ten: Special Cases.

If a member of SGA feels he/she may have trouble fulfilling some of the obligations for an amount of time due to a family emergency or sudden health concern, he/she must speak to the Advisor immediately to discuss alternatives to the situation, or possible resignation from the Student Government Association if the issue becomes long term and prohibits the member from fulfilling duties for a significant amount of time.

ARTICLE IV. MEETINGS

Section One: Regular Meetings.

Regular meetings of the all SGA members will be held biweekly (every two weeks) each semester on a day and time specified by the membership.

Section Two: Cabinet Meetings.

Cabinet meetings of the SGA will be held biweekly (every two weeks) each semester on a day and time specified by the membership. The first meeting of each semester shall occur after the first regular meeting and the 1st and 2nd Cabinets of the SGA must be present.

Section Three: Senate Meetings.

Senate meetings of the SGA will be held biweekly each semester on a day and time specified by the membership. At the meeting, the Senate Speaker, Senate Secretary, School Representatives and all Senators must be present.

Section Four: Special Meetings.

Special meetings of the SGA may be called by the SGA President or upon the  written request of three (3) members of SGA. The purpose of the meeting shall be stated in the call. Except in cases of emergency authorized by the Director of Student Life, at least five (5) days’ notice shall be given to members by telephone, in writing, or electronic means.

Section Five: Summer Meetings.

Summer meetings should be held as called upon by the President, or via request of members within SGA. During this time, members should become familiar with roles and expectations, as well as discuss a plan for the fall semester in terms of meeting dates, serving on committees, etc.

Section Six: Quorum.

The quorum for regular and special meetings of the SGA shall be a majority (10) of the membership.

ARTICLE V. COMMITTEES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Section One: Special Committees.

Special Committees shall be appointed as deemed necessary by the SGA. Special Committees shall consist of a chairman and at least two (2) other members, nominated by the Student Body President and approved by the SGA.

Section Two: Powers.

Committees are not authorized to act on their own will. Committees shall make recommendations to the SGA for any action that is to be taken on behalf of the organization. Committees shall report as required or when requested by the SGA to do so.

ARTICLE VI. PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY

Section One: Adoption of Parliamentary Authority

The SGA will follow Parliamentary Authority.

ARTICLE VII. AMENDMENTS

Section One: Amendments.

A. Introduction.

1. An amendment to this Constitution may be proposed by a member of SGA in writing at a regular meeting.
2. An amendment to this Constitution may be proposed by a petition signed by at least five percent (5%) of the student body.

B. Adoption.

This Constitution may be amended by receiving at least two-thirds of the legal votes cast at a regular meeting of the SGA, provided the amendment has been announced to the student body at least thirty (30) days prior to the meeting in which it is considered. The notice shall include the complete text of the proposed amendment.

G. Referenda.

An amendment that is not adopted through a vote of the SGA shall be placed on a referendum upon the presentation of a petition signed by at least ten percent (10%) of the student body. The Constitution may be amended by receiving a majority of the legal votes cast in the referendum.

Section Two: Effective Date.

A. SGA-approved.

Amendments to this Constitution approved by the SGA shall take effect at the adjournment of the meeting at which they are adopted unless otherwise provided.

H. Referendum-approved.

Amendments to this Constitution approved by referendum shall take effect immediately.

ARTICLE VIII. ELECTIONS

Section One: Primary Elections.

These elections shall occur in the month of April and are open for any current Indiana University Northwest students to vote on. These elections are held with the purpose of filling all the positions of SGA, with the exception of the Freshman Representative, which is discussed in Article VIII, Section Two.

Section Two: Special Elections.

These elections shall occur in the third week from the day the fall classes begin and are open for any current Indiana University Northwest to vote on. These elections are held  with the purpose of filling the Freshman Representative along with any remaining vacancies that have not been addressed in Articles II and III, Sections B2 and D3.

Section Three: Election Committee.

1. An election committee shall be activated only when an SGA election occurs in which it will enforce campaign rules and regulations.
2. The election committee will manage and schedule to patrol all areas of the university where campaign materials are displayed.
3. When it is determined by the election committee that an offense has occurred, it shall present all evidence and documentation of facts to the SGA for appropriate administrative action.
4. Candidates convicted of violating regulations will be removed from the ballot and will not permitted appointment to any SGA officer in the future.
5. Election rules shall be revised by the election committee by the last meeting of the Fall Semester.
6. Election rules shall be made available for all students prior to the election.

Section Four: Rules and Regulations.

A. Campaign Funding:

No Indiana University funds may be used for campaign material, promotion, or advertisement of any candidate. Campaign is self-funded.

B. Campaign Publicity:

1. All printed campaign material must bear an approval signature from the Election Committee of the date and the initials of the Election Committee.
2. A copy/sample, when feasible, must be kept on file with the Election Committee.
3. Campaign materials may be posted and distributed beginning March 1st. Campaign material must be removed no later than 24 hours after the polls close.

4. Online campaigning, including all social networking sites, groups, wall posts, and profile edits regarding one’s candidacy is allowed. The Election Committee will be checking all candidates’ profiles and affiliated pages to ensure that no unfair/illegal campaigning occurs. If a candidate’s advertisements violate any codes, Article VIII, Section 3d.
5. The Election Committee will not restrict content except as otherwise set forth in this manual and except in cases where the university has determined that a particular item is defamatory, obscene, or possesses a clear and present danger of resulting in a serious substantive matter which the University has a right to prevent.
6. All materials will be reviewed for appropriateness and conformity to all applicable University guidelines and Board of Trustee policies.
7. Posting is to be done on designated bulletin boards and kiosks only. Posting is not permitted on walls, doors, windows, pillars, garbage cans, sidewalks, trees, automobiles, or any other unauthorized area.
8. Posting on a board assigned to a particular university department must have approval from that department.
9. Materials on all bulletin boards must be affixed with standard size staples, pushpins, or thumbtacks. The use of tape, glue, nails or any other affixing device is prohibited.
10. All fliers/posters must visibly bear the candidate's name.
11. In order to allow all users a fair and equal chance for space on the boards and provide maximum service, poster or flyer size must not exceed 11” x 17.”

C. Distribution by Handout:

1. The University and the Election Commission reserve the right to control time, place, and manner of distribution. Those who distribute must not:
   1. block entrances or exits to any facilities or disrupt the normal flow of
   2. commit any act that creates a safety or health hazard.
   3. accompany the distribution of materials by loud or raucous sounds which are likely to disturb others.
   4. interfere or disrupt any other activity in the same general location

2. All campaign material must identify a candidate and bear an approval signature from the Election Committee.

D. Distribution by Booths and Tables:

Booths/tables must be reserved by a student organization. Campaign material may be disseminated with the student organization’s permission. Campaign material is not permitted on cafeteria tables

E. Signs:

1. All signs must be made of weather-resistant materials such as pine, plywood, particleboard, vinyl, canvas, or other similar materials. All signs must be self- supporting and may not be affixed to any building or University fixture (light posts, trash cans, trees, etc.) Nails may not protrude from the surface, side or back of the sign. Lettering must be neat and legible in weather-resistant material.
2. All signs must be approved and stamped by the Election Commissioner and may not exceed 5 feet in width and 3 feet in height.
3. Signs may not obstruct the view of vehicular, bicycle, or pedestrian traffic in any way, nor be placed in such a way as to create a hazard for vehicular, bicycle, or pedestrian traffic.

F. Violations:

Acts of misconduct for which candidates are subject to review include violations of University policy and regulations, election and campaign guidelines, local  ordinances, and state and federal laws, and include, without limitation:

1. Distributing and/or posting campaign materials not approved by the Election Committee
2. Willful or malicious damage or destruction of another candidate’s campaign material or election material
3. Forgery, alteration, or misuse of university documents, records, and student ID cards
4. Violations of other university policies or regulations
5. Acts against the administration of this section include:
   1. Initiation of a complaint or charge knowing that the charge is false
   2. Interference with or attempt to interfere with the enforcement of these guidelines, including but not limited to, intimidation, bribery, acceptance of bribes, dishonesty, and disruption of proceedings and hearings held under this section
   3. Violation of the terms of any sanction or attached conditions imposed in accordance with this policy
6. Campaigning inside of or storing materials in restricted areas (Student Government Office)
7. Failure to meet the general eligibility requirements, including GPA, enrollment period, student status, and refusal to go through certification process
8. Leafleting on vehicles or posting fliers on unapproved university fixtures, such as trash cans, vending machines, walls by telephones, or bathroom stalls.
9. Providing access on campus to a computer, or other electronic device, in order to vote online. Doing so creates a de facto polling site and violates secret-ballot confidentiality.
10. Candidates convicted of violating regulations will be removed from the ballot and will not permitted appointment to any SGA officer in the future.