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 Government Association
Section 1. 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 intercultural 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.
Section 2. The objective of IUN SGA
The objective of the IUN Student Government Association is to unite the IUN student body toward common educational, professional, and social goals: To serve as a liaison between the IUN student body and administration. To uphold the standards of academic honesty and integrity. To facilitate cooperation and communication among IUN organizations. To represent all IUN students.
The official name of this organization shall be the Student Government Association, hereinafter referred to as SGA.
Section 1. Composition (Updated 02.28.2023) The Student Government Association shall consist of the following:
Subsection A. Executive Board Officers elected during the fall semester of each academic year. Subsection B. Congressional Representatives elected during the fall semester of each academic year. Subsection C. Congressional Representatives appointed during the fall semester of each academic year. Subsection D. Non-congressional appointed Representatives of particular departments appointed during the fall semester of each academic year. Subsection E. Ex-officio, the Director of Student Activities.
Section 2. Executive Board Officers (Updated 02.28.2023) Article III. Section 2. Subsections A-D are elected during the late fall semester of each academic year.
The Student Government Association Executive Board shall consist of the subsections listed below:
Subsection A. Student Government Association President Subsection B. Student Government Association Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations, first in line of succession. Subsection C. Student Government Association Vice President of Marketing & Communications, second in line of succession. Subsection D. Student Government Association Vice President of Academic Affairs, third in line of succession. Following this position in the line of succession will be the Representatives of the Campus Life & Operations committee, then the Representatives of the Marketing & Communications committee, then the Representatives of the Academic Affairs committee with the order within those levels to be assigned by the advisor of SGA. Subsection E. The Advisor of the Student Government Association shall be the Director of Student Activities or their designee, and shall serve on the Executive Board in an ex-officio capacity and shall not vote on any issue brought before the Executive Board. They shall have full Executive Board privileges beyond this.
Section 3. Congress (Updated 02.28.2023) The Student Government Association Congress shall consist of the subsections listed below:
Article III. Section 3. Subsection A-B is appointed by the President of SGA, in consultation with the SGA Executive Board, during the late fall semester of each academic year. Will serve one full calendar year. All Coordinator of Media candidates must submit a portfolio of marketing/graphic design materials demonstrating the experiences that make them qualified for this role.
Article III. Section 3. Subsections C-G are elected during the late fall semester of each academic year. Will serve one full calendar year.
Article III. Section 3. Subsections H-K are appointed by the respective offices or by SGA during the transition period and will serve one full academic year. In the absence of a departmental appointment, SGA will accept applications for these positions and representatives shall be appointed by the President.
Article III. Section 3. Subsection L-O are elected during the late fall semester of each academic year. Will serve one full calendar year.
Subsection A. Coordinator of Media Subsection B. Coordinator of Outreach Subsection C. School of the Arts Representative Subsection D. College of Arts and Sciences Representative Subsection E. College of Education Representative Subsection F. College of Health and Human Services Representative Subsection G. School of Business and Economics Representative Subsection H. Athletics Department Representative Subsection I. Office of Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs Representative Subsection J. Academic Advising Representative Subsection K. Career Services Representative Subsection L. Dining Services Representative Subsection M. Campus Safety Representative Subsection N. Facilities Services Representative Subsection O. Library & UITS Representative
Section 1. Executive Board Qualifications Subsection A. President
Candidates for President must be current undergraduate students at Indiana University Northwest and be enrolled in at least six (6) credit hours per semester during their term of office.
Subsection B. Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations
Candidates for Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations must be a current undergraduate student at Indiana University Northwest and be enrolled in at least nine (9) credit hours per semester during their term of office.
Subsection C. Vice President of Marketing & Communications
Candidates for Vice President of Marketing & Communications must be a current undergraduate student at Indiana University Northwest and be enrolled in at least nine (9) credit hours per semester during their term of office.
Subsection D. Vice President of Academic Affairs
Candidates for Vice President of Academic Affairs must be a current undergraduate student at Indiana University Northwest and be enrolled in at least nine (9) credit hours per semester during their term of office.
Subsection E. General Requirements for all Executive Board Positions
Candidates for all Executive Board or Congressional positions must not have a significant or sustained record of violations of the University sexual misconduct, Title IX or bias policies at the time of election. “Significant or sustained record” shall be defined by the advisor of the Student Government Association in consultation and concurrence with the Dean of Students.
Candidates for all Executive Board or Congressional positions must not have a significant or sustained record of violations of the University academic standards or code of conduct at the time of election. “Significant or sustained record” shall be defined by the advisor of the Student Government Association in consultation and concurrence with the Dean of Students.
Candidates for all Executive Board positions must have already served in the Student Government Association or in a comparable leadership position on campus. “Comparable Leadership Position” shall be defined by the advisor of the Student Government Association in consultation with the current SGA Executive Board and the Dean of Students.
Candidates for all Executive Board positions must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative grade point average at the time of election and, if elected, must sustain a minimum GPA of 2.75 for the duration of their time in office
Section 2. Congress Qualifications Subsection A. Coordinators
No additional qualifications beyond the Article IV. Section 2. Subsection E. qualifications are applicable to this position.
All Coordinator of Media candidates must submit a portfolio of marketing/graphic design materials demonstrating the experiences that make them qualified for this role.
Subsection B. Academic Department Representatives
Candidates for Academic Department Representative positions must have completed both at least nine (9) semester credit hours and be majoring, minoring, or planning to major in a field under the academic division they represent at the time of election.
Subsection C. Administrative Department Representatives and Liaisons
Appointees to the Administrative Department Representative or Liaison positions must be active contributors in the offices or department that they are appointed to represent.
Subsection D. General Requirements for all Congressional and Committee Positions
Appointees or candidates for all positions in Article IV. Section 2. Subsections A-C must not have a significant or sustained record of violations of the University academic standards or code of conduct at the time of election. “Significant or sustained record” shall be defined by the advisor of the Student Government Association in consultation and concurrence with the Dean of Students.
Appointees or candidates for all positions in Article IV. Section 2. Subsections A-C must not have a significant or sustained record of violations of the University sexual misconduct, Title IX or bias policies at the time of election. “Significant or sustained record” shall be defined by the advisor of the Student Government Association in consultation and concurrence with the Dean of Students.
Appointees or candidates for all positions in Article IV. Section 2. Subsection A-C. must be current undergraduate students at Indiana University Northwest and be enrolled in at least nine (9) credit hours per semester during their term of office.
Appointees or candidates for all positions in Article IV. Section 2. Subsection A-C. must have a minimum of a 2.50 cumulative grade point average at the time of election or appointment and, if elected or appointed, must sustain a minimum GPA of 2.50 for the duration of their time in office. In the event of a member not maintaining the 2.50 GPA academic requirements, they are eligible to file a GPA Appeal. This appeal can be filed if the student has demonstrated improved academic performance or personal contributing matters. This appeal will be approved by concurrence of the advisor, relevant Vice President, and the President of SGA. Also note the individual can be placed on probation if seen necessary.
Section 1. Executive Board Responsibilities Subsection A. President
The President shall call, preside, and serve as Chair over all meetings of the SGA Executive Board and the Congress.
The President must meet with the Chancellor to discuss SGA legislation and other relevant business pertaining to the campus and/or the student body.
The President must attend at least 90% of the SGA Congress meetings and Executive Board meetings each semester and must make a significant effort to attend SGA events whenever possible.
The President shall have the authority to create ad-hoc committees to address matters of student or SGA interest.
The President must represent the Student Government Association and the student body during campus community meetings and forums.
The President serves as an ex-officio member of SGA committees and performs other duties, as described by the SGA procedural guidelines or any parliamentary authority adopted by the SGA.
The President must participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA President-Elect in December of each academic year.
The President will meet weekly with the Director of Student Activities to discuss SGA agenda items, receive administrative updates and communicate generally about the organization needs and challenges.
The President shall serve on any University committees or boards as deemed appropriate in their capacity as representative of the IUN students. If unable to serve in such a capacity, the President shall delegate such a role to members of the SGA that they feel would best represent the student body in this case.
In SGA Executive Board or Congressional meetings, the President shall cast the tie-breaking vote in the event of a tie.
The President shall fill all vacant positions using a process outlined in the Procedural Guidelines and in consultation with the Executive Board and the Advisor.
The President shall be an ex-officio member of the Congress and of all ad-hoc committees but shall not vote unless in case of a tie.
The President, in consultation with the Parliamentarian, has the authority to close a Congressional meeting and allow only SGA members and the Advisor in attendance.
The President shall be an ex-officio member of all SGA standing committees but shall not have a vote.
Shall complete other duties as assigned.
Subsection B. Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations
The Executive Vice President shall be an ex-officio and non-voting member of the Congress.
The individual must attend at least 90% of the SGA Congress meetings and Executive Board meetings each semester and must attend 50% of all SGA events.
The Executive Vice President will serve as chair and provide oversight of the Campus Life & Operations Committee of the SGA.
The Executive Vice President shall serve, if invited, as the co-Chair of the advisory board to the Office of Student Activities.
The Executive Vice President will be responsible for providing more engagement in the process of budget maintenance. The Executive Vice President shall oversee the budget for the SGA and shall meet regularly with the Advisor to discuss balances.
The Executive Vice President shall be responsible for making any electronic purchases of items that the Campus Life & Operations Committee approves for the SGA, within a timely manner.
The Executive Vice President shall be responsible for transferring funds that the Campus Life & Operations Committee approves for student organizations, within a timely manner in collaboration with the Director of Student Activities.
The Executive Vice President shall enforce the policies laid out in the Finance Manual or Student Organization Manual.
In absence of the President, the Executive Vice President will take up the responsibilities of the President at meetings and events.
The Executive Vice President will meet biweekly with the Director of Student Activities and communicate funding updates regarding the SGA.
The Executive Vice President will meet biweekly with the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management and communicate updates to the SGA.
The Executive Vice President must participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Executive Vice President-Elect for Campus Life & Operations in December of each academic year.
The Executive Vice President must be visibly present at events promoted by the SGA.
The Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations will serve as the Treasurer of the Student Government Association of Indiana University Northwest.
The Executive Vice President and the Campus Life & Operations Committee shall be responsible for the approval of funds for the Self-Governed Student Organizations.
The Executive Vice President shall compile and maintain a ledger of funds allocated from Student Government Association to each self-governed student organization or to SGA themselves.
The Executive Vice President shall provide oversight of their responsible committee within the SGA and shall meet with that group to discuss ongoing projects.
The Executive Vice President shall compile, with the assistance of the Executive Board, an operating budget for Student Government Association to be considered annually by the Executive Board at the beginning of the academic year.
The Executive Vice President shall communicate with the campus administration in the absence of the President.
The Executive Vice President, or their designee, shall serve as a student representative on the Strategic Enrollment Management Committee.
The Vice President shall complete other duties as assigned.
Subsection C. Vice President of Marketing & Communications
The Vice President will meet with the Director of Marketing & Communications and or their designee to communicate SGA initiatives and relay information.
The Vice President shall take minutes at all Executive Board and Congressional meetings. The minutes of all Congressional meetings must be distributed to the campus community electronically within ten days of each Congressional meeting.
The Vice President shall take attendance and maintain a record of attendance at Executive Board and Congressional meetings.
The Vice President shall regularly notify the members of Student Government Association of their attendance record and shall notify the Executive Board of all attendance concerns that arise in the Student Congress.
The Vice President shall be an ex-officio and non-voting member of the Student Congress. The individual must attend at least 90% of the SGA Congress meetings and Executive Board meetings each semester and must attend 75% of all SGA events.
The Vice President of Marketing & Communications shall serve as the Secretary for the Student Government Association Congressional meetings. They shall also serve as archivist for the organization.
The Vice President shall keep a record of all legislation passed by both the Executive Board and the Student Congress.
The Vice President shall communicate all meeting times and locations to the members of the Executive Board and the Congress with no less than 48 hours notice, unless otherwise stated by the President.
The Vice President must be visibly present at events sponsored by the SGA.
The Vice President 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 Vice President maintains the SGA’s official membership roll, documents absences and reports them to the SGA for disciplinary action and maintains them in the records of SGA.
The Vice President must participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Vice President-elect for Marketing & Communications in December of each academic year.
The Vice President shall provide oversight of the Marketing & Communications committee within the SGA and shall meet with that group to discuss ongoing projects.
The Vice President shall communicate with the student body in the absence of the President.
The Vice President shall be responsible for distributing an agenda to all members of Congress and guests at least 12 hours prior to each Congressional meeting.
The Vice President shall create and maintain a list containing the contact information for all organization leadership.
Shall complete other duties as assigned.
Subsection D. Vice President for Academic Affairs
The individual will meet with the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs to communicate updates from the SGA and learn what matters they would like brought before the SGA.
The individual must attend at least 90% of the SGA Congress meetings and Executive Board meetings each semester and must attend 75% of all SGA events.
The Vice President must be visibly present at events sponsored by the SGA.
The Vice President must participate in the transfer of duties to the SGA Vice President-elect for Student Experiences in December of each academic year.
The Vice President shall represent SGA on any committee or forum where the issues of academic life are of primary concern, in partnership with the President.
The Vice President shall provide oversight of the Academic Affairs Committee within the SGA and shall meet with that group to discuss ongoing projects.
The Vice President of Academic Affairs shall serve as the Parliamentarian for the Student Government Association Congressional meetings and shall train all members of SGA on the appropriate rules and processes.
The Vice President shall be an ex-officio and non-voting member of the Student Congress.
The Vice President, or their designee, shall serve as a student representative on the Strategic Enrollment Management Committee.
Shall complete other duties as assigned.
Subsection E. Advisor
The Advisor shall be an ex-officio member of the Executive Board, Congress and all SGA standing and ad-hoc committees but shall not have a vote.
The Advisor shall be the ultimate judge of rule discrepancies in the election process and will work with the Election Committee to resolve many disputes.
Subsection F. General Responsibilities
The Executive Board shall assume full Congressional jurisdiction in the event of an emergency when time or circumstance does not permit a regular meeting of the Congress.
The Executive Board shall hold regular meetings, in-person or on Zoom, as determined by the President to discuss any matters or concerns from the student body and shall determine what and when, within Constitutional policies, to bring those items to the Congress. The Executive Board shall discuss and approve the Congressional agenda set forth by the President each week. The Executive Board members must meet in the SGA Office for committee and executive meetings.
Each member of the Executive Board shall hold at least one weekly, consistent office hour in the SGA office. These office hours shall be communicated to the campus community. Only one Executive Board member shall work in the office at the same time unless it is necessary for the business of SGA.
Executive Board members shall serve as ex-officio members of the committees they oversee but shall not vote unless in the case of a tie.
The Coordinator of Media will be responsible for all of the social media outlets and keep them up to date every week. They shall inform students about important and major events held on campus by various clubs. Social media includes sites such as Engage at IUN, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and any other social media outlet.
Design advertisements for SGA events and meetings.
Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
Meet with the Marketing & Communications committee and shall meet regularly with the Vice President of Marketing & Communications.
Will be responsible for digital distribution of surveys and or other data collection.
Must submit online questionnaire summarizing their respective meetings.
Attend at least 80% of the meetings (Congressional & Committee) and events per semester.
Shall complete other duties as assigned.
Coordinator of Community Outreach
The coordinator must be responsible for relations dealing with the community of the campus (e.g., RedHawks Nest, bookstore, Title IX, mental health, etc.)
May be assigned to sit in prospective meetings by the President.
Required to engage verbally, in a respectful manner, with students to collect student issues and publicly portray their role in SGA. The number of students required to engage with and number of issues to be collected are dependent upon the president.
Must submit online questionnaire summarizing their respective meetings.
Shall be responsible for organizing SGA’s involvement in the Involvement Fairs and any additional tabling opportunities.
Attend at least 80% of the meetings (Congressional & Committee) and events per semester.
Subsection B. Academic Department Representatives - College of Arts and Sciences, School of the Arts, School of Business and Economics, School of Education, and College of Health and Human Services
Attend at least 80% of the meetings (Congressional and representative) and events per semester. The status of attendance at meetings will be checked and reported by the Vice President of Marketing & Communications.
Be an active member of 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.
Attend, volunteer at, and help to coordinate the events promoted by the SGA through the semester, or events that require/request an SGA presence.
Represent the Indiana University Northwest specific school assigned at meetings and events of the SGA.
Serve on the SGA Academic Affairs Committee and attend meetings.
Vote on matters of concern to the Indiana University Northwest specific school assigned.
Serve on the SGA committees to which they are appointed.
A minimum of five meetings with the Dean of the respective school are required per semester. The meetings will discuss matters that pertain to the specific school that will benefit the students’ academic experience and or school issues.
Create questionnaires for the students in the specific school assigned to address any concerns. Submit a compilation of these surveys to the Vice President of Academic Affairs for them to submit to the archives and for discussion.
Required to engage verbally, in a respectful manner, with students to collect student issues and publicly portray their role in SGA. The number of students required to engage with and number of issues to be collected are dependent upon the president.
Present themselves in freshman seminars for their respective schools.
Must submit online questionnaire summarizing their respective meetings.
Perform other duties as prescribed in the Procedural Guidelines, or in the parliamentary authority adopted by the SGA.
Shall complete other duties as assigned.
Subsection D. Administrative Department Representatives
Shall serve as a liaison to the administrative office they represent from the SGA.
Shall represent the priorities and opinions of the department they represent when serving in Congress or on committees.
Shall meet with the leader of the department they represent to obtain and provide updates.
Must submit online questionnaire summarizing their respective meetings.
Required to engage verbally, in a respectful manner, with students to collect student issues and publicly portray their role in SGA. The number of students required to engage with and number of issues to be collected are dependent upon the president.
Shall complete other duties as assigned.
Section 1. Committee Responsibilities Subsection A. Campus Life & Operations Committee (CLO)
This committee would review budget requests from Self-Governed Student Organizations including an interview with the representatives of the organization submitting the request. Once they approve a request, it would go to the full SGA Congress for confirmation of that decision. If the Committee denies a request, an organization can choose to resubmit or appeal the decision to the full SGA Congress. The decisions of the full SGA Congress in response to an appeal are final. This committee would present their decision to the full SGA Congress on behalf of an organization.
This committee would approve some budget requests from SGA itself and some institutional departments. Any committee approved budget requests under $250 will not go to the full SGA Congress for a vote of concurrence.
Evaluating all budgetary questions and concerns self-governed student organizations may have. Train SGSO’s on the budget request process and any budget policies.
Assist student organizations in comprehension and completion of the budget request process.
The CLO may not allocate funds of any kind without the expressed permission of the Executive Board.
Addressing campus infrastructure related questions and helping to facilitate notification of problems to Facilities Services.
Serve as a representative of the student voice on all questions brought to them by Facilities Services, IUPD, ODEMA, Athletics, IT, and Dining Services.
Create and maintain communications with the office of Facilities Services, IUPD, ODEMA, Athletics, IT, and Dining Services regarding concerns and questions from students.
Per the amendment passed referencing the Operations and Finance Committee (now Campus Life & Operations Committee), it was agreed that an Operations and Finance Committee (now Campus Life & Operations Committee), be added as a permanent Standing Committee of the Student Government Association of Indiana University Northwest. As such, due to its impact on the institutional budget and other major campus processes, the removal of this committee will require the approval of the Dean of Students.
Shall serve as a liaison, if necessary, to the Office of Student Activities.
Subsection B. Campus Life & Operations Committee Structure
Committee Chairperson: Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations of Student Government Association
Ex-officio Committee Member: Director of Student Activities or their designee
Ex-officio Committee Member: President of Student Government Association
Committee Member: Dining Services Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: Campus Safety Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: Facilities Services Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: Information & Technology Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: ODEMA Representative (student appointed by Office of Diversity, Equity & Multicultural Affairs or SGA)
Committee Member: Athletics Representative (student appointed by Department of Athletics or SGA)
Subsection C. Academic Affairs Committee (AAC)
Responsible for addressing student challenges or concerns pertaining to academics, the classroom environment, scheduling and more and serves as an SGA liaison to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Office.
Shall serve as a sounding board for campus administration regarding any new academic programs or adjustments being made.
Shall serve as a liaison to the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs.
Subsection D. Academic Affairs Committee Structure
Committee Chairperson: Vice President of Academic Affairs of Student Government Association
Ex-officio Committee Member: Director of Student Activities or their designee
Ex-officio Committee Member: President of Student Government Association
Committee Member: College of Arts and Sciences Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: School of the Arts Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: School of Business and Economics Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: School of Education Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: College of Health and Human Services Representative elected by IUN students
Committee Member: Career Services Representative (Student appointed by Career Services or SGA)
Committee Member: Academic Advising Representative (Student appointed by Academic Advising or SGA)
Subsection E. Marketing & Communications Committee (MCC)
Shall address concerns raised by students about campus matters that are impacting their community or social experience.
Shall serve as a sounding board for campus administration regarding any new programs or adjustments being made.
Shall work collaboratively to develop fresh marketing ideas for the organization, plan and execute SGA events.
Create and process surveys conducted within the student body.
Provide oversight and primary staffing of SGA events.
Create and follow an SGA marketing plan and calendar.
Subsection F. Marketing & Communications Committee Structure
Committee Chairperson: Vice President of Marketing & Communications of Student Government Association
Ex-officio Committee Member: Director of Student Activities or their designee
Ex-officio Committee Member: President of Student Government Association
Committee Member: Coordinator of Media (Student appointed by President & SGA Advisor)
Committee Member: Coordinator of Community Outreach elected by IUN students
Section 1. Election and Appointment Timelines
Elections for Executive Board Officers, Representatives of the Academic Schools and Colleges, Coordinators and the Student Life Congressional Representatives At-Large are elected. Elections for these positions will take place during the fall semester of each academic year.
Appointments for Congressional Representatives that will serve as liaisons with the following departments, will be appointed to these positions right at the conclusion of the fall semester of each academic year.
Department of Athletics
Office of Diversity, Equity & Multicultural Affairs
Academic Advising Center
Career Services
SGA will change the terms to a calendar year term instead of an academic year term in 2023.
The election timing for the Executive Board and all elected members of the Congress will begin in Week 8 and be concluded by the end of Week 12 in the semester in which it is held.
A debate or forum must be held at least one week prior to elections and must be open to the full campus community, including Faculty and Staff. A swearing-in ceremony must be held within 28 days of the conclusion of the election.
There will be an Election Committee assigned each year prior to the election season. This committee will set the rules and expectations both within the Constitution and for matters outside the Constitution. The committee make up will be an outgoing member of SGA who has exhibited leadership skills and is trustworthy as the Chair. Additional members include one non-SGA member of the Student Body and one current SGA member not running for office.
All elections shall be held electronically through the Engage at IUN system. The voting poll will be sent out via email to all students at 9 am on the Monday of election week and will conclude at 11:59 pm on the Thursday of election week. Elected officials will be notified Friday, the following day.
Candidates running for any position of the SGA 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.
Section 2. Transitioning Period
The month between the election and final exams will include a transition period of 2-3 weeks, an Executive Board Retreat and will conclude with a swearing-in ceremony during the week before final exams.
Section 3. Items Necessary for Candidacy Subsection A. Platform Letter
Candidates for all elected positions in the Student Government Association must submit a platform letter that states your reasons for running for office, prominent issues on your platform and why you would be a viable choice.
Subsection B. SGA Interest Form
Candidates for all elected positions in the Student Government Association must submit an SGA Interest Form.
Subsection C. Signatures
Candidates for all elected Congressional positions in the Student Government Association must obtain 30 verifiable, handwritten student signatures.
Candidates for all elected Executive Board positions in the Student Government Association must obtain 100 verifiable, handwritten student signatures.
Section 4. Election Rules Subsection A. Tickets
Candidates for Executive Board positions may run on a ticket or as part of one campus political party. Up to four candidates, running for each of the four Executive Board positions, can be on each ticket.
Tickets must be declared by completing the party registration form.
Political parties must be declared by completing the party registration form no later than 72 hours prior to the election period (the date when platform letters and SGA interest forms are due).
Subsection B. Rules
Student Government Association or the Election Committee reserve the right to add or subtract rules up to six hours prior to the start of campaigning and may adjust rules if they see fit during the campaigning process but must notify candidates within 48 hours notice prior.
Any rules that are potentially violated may result in a meeting with the Election Committee and may result in removal from the ballot. Warnings, vote adjustment and additional sanctions may be applied short of removal.
Rule 1: Candidates must not willfully or maliciously damage or destroy another candidate’s campaign or election material.
Rule 2. Candidates must not distribute and/or post campaign materials that are not approved by the Election Committee.
Rule 3. Candidates must not forge, alter, or misuse university documents, records, and identifying materials. Doing so will result in, aside from potential removal from ballot, referral to the University conduct process.
Rule 4. Candidates must not violate University policies, procedures or regulations
Rule 5. Candidates must not Initiate accusations, complaints or charges with the Election Committee that they know are false.
Rule 6. Candidates must not Interfere with or attempt to interfere with the enforcement of any University or Election Committee policies, processes or guidelines, including but not limited to intimidation, bribery (ie. giving or receiving bribes), dishonesty, and disruption of proceedings and hearings held under this section.
Rule 7. Candidates must not violate the terms of any sanctions or conditions assigned or imposed in accordance with these election policies.
Rule 8. Candidates must not campaign, plan their campaign strategies, or store materials in the Student Government Office or the Game Room/Student Activities Office.
Rule 9. Candidates must not fail to meet the general eligibility requirements, including GPA, enrollment period, student status, and refusal to go through a certification process.
Rule 10. Candidates must not put leaflets on vehicles or post flyers in or on unapproved University fixtures and spaces such as trash cans, vending machines, walls, indoor floors, windows, doors or bathroom stalls. Chalking is allowed in specific locations but must be approved by the Office of Student Activities.
Rule 11. Candidates must not provide access on campus to a computer, or another electronic device, in order to vote electronically. Doing so creates a de facto polling site and violates ballot security.
Rule 12. Candidates should know that surrogates that violate any rules or policies will by default place you in violation.
Rule 13. All campaigning must be clean. Any negative or slanderous campaigning will result in potential removal from the ballot.
Rule 14. Each candidate may spend a maximum of $250 on their campaign and must submit receipts to the Election Committee for verification. Institutional funds, University Student Organization or Self-Governed Student Organization funds may not be spent on campaigns.
Section 5. Campaigning
Each candidate will have a maximum of one month to campaign.
Candidates may continue to campaign through the final day of the voting but all physical campaign materials on campus must be removed by 17 hours after the voting ends.
Section 1. Congressional Meetings Regular meetings of the Congress will be held a minimum of every three weeks during each semester on a day and time specified by the President. All SGA Executive Board and Congressional members must be present. No exemptions will be applied for any member.
Section 2. Executive Board Meetings Meetings of the SGA Executive Board will be held weekly each semester on a day and time specified by the President. The frequency of these meetings shall be determined by the President in consultation with the Advisor. All members of the Executive Board must be present. The Advisor will have flexibility in attendance due to the nature of their work.
Section 3. Student Forums
The President shall have the authority to hold a forum with the student body at their discretion.
Subsection A. All members of the student body will be invited and encouraged to attend.
Subsection B. All forums will be held in person, but Zoom or Microsoft Teams, can be used as an alternative when necessary.
Subsection C. The President must inform the student body of the date, time and location of the Student Forum at least 5 days in advance. All forums shall be started and completed between the hours of 9:00am and 9:00pm.
Subsection D. The President of SGA must hold at least one forum during each semester of their term.
Subsection E. The President is encouraged to hold at least one joint forum during their term of office with the Chancellor of Indiana University Northwest.
Subsection F. The President is encouraged to hold at least one additional joint forum during their term of office with the Chancellor of Indiana University Northwest and the Mayor of Gary, or their designees.
Subsection G. The President may invite campus administrators to these forums when necessary, for the purpose of attendance or to participate.
Subsection H. The President is encouraged to hold a State of the SGA/University Address at the beginning and end of their term. This can be held live, virtually or via email.
Section 4. Quorum Subsection A.
A quorum of 50% plus one is required to hold Congressional meetings and Special meetings.
Committee meetings and Executive Board meetings will proceed with or without a quorum.
Section 5.Additional Meetings Subsection A. Other SGA Meetings
A special meeting can be called as specified in the Constitution. A 48 hour notice is required to call a special meeting. All general meeting rules apply to a special meeting.
All meetings shall be conducted in a manner consistent with the values of Indiana University Northwest. Every student who attends Executive Board, Congressional or Committee meetings regarding the Student Government Association, shall uphold the standards and rules outlined in the institutional student policies and expectations, and shall conduct themselves in a respectable manner. Failure to do so may result in removal from the meeting and referral to the College’s conduct process.
The Student Government Association Executive Board meetings will be held a minimum of one time per week throughout the academic year and at the discretion of the President during the summer break and winter break.
The Student Government Association Congress meetings will be held every three weeks throughout the academic year and at the discretion of the President during the summer break and winter break.
The Student Government Association Committee meetings will be held biweekly throughout the academic year and at the discretion of the President during the summer break and winter break.
At the start of each semester, a retreat must be held with the entire SGA and it will be mandatory. These will be no less than a half of a day.
Subsection B. Summer Meetings
Summer meetings should be held as called upon by the President. During this time, members discuss a plan for the fall semester in terms of meeting dates, serving on committees, etc.
Subsection C. Executive Board Meetings with Advisors
The SGA President is responsible for meeting with the Chancellor biweekly to discuss ongoing issues on campus. The meetings are no less than 30 minutes long.
The Vice President of Academic Affairs will correspond regularly, meet when possible, with the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and communicate updates to the SGA.
The Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations will correspond & meet regularly with the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs & Enrollment Management and communicate updates to the SGA.
The Vice President of Marketing & Communications will correspond & meet regularly with the Director of Marketing & Communications and communicate updates to the SGA
Subsection D. Example of 4 Week Meeting Schedule for SGA
Week One
President/Advisor 1:1 Meeting
Executive Board Meeting
Campus Life & Operations Committee Representatives hold meetings within their Administrative Offices
Academic Affairs Committee Representatives hold meetings within their Academic Departments
Week Two
President/Advisor 1:1 Meeting
VPCLO/Advisor 1:1 Meeting
Executive Board Meeting
Academic Affairs Committee Meeting
Campus Life & Operations Committee Meeting
Marketing & Communications Committee Meeting
Week Three
President/Advisor 1:1 Meeting
Executive Board Meeting
Congressional Meeting
Week Four
President/Advisor 1:1 Meeting
VPCLO/Advisor 1:1 Meeting
Executive Board Meeting
Academic Affairs Committee Meeting
Campus Life & Operations Committee Meeting
Marketing & Communications Committee Meeting
Campus Life and Operations Committee Representatives hold meetings within their Administrative Offices
Academic Affairs Committee Representatives hold meetings within their Academic Departments
Section 1. Robert’s Rules of Order Robert’s Rules of Order will be used in all meetings with the Congress unless otherwise specified by the President or Advisor. The authority to determine which version of Parliamentary Procedure will be used will be decided by the Executive Board. The Executive Board does not have the authority to eliminate the Parliamentary Procedure requirement.
Section 2. Suspension of Rules A member of the Executive Board or Congress may make a motion, at the appropriate time, to suspend the rules and allow a meeting without Parliamentary Procedure.
Subsection A. In order to sustain this motion it must be seconded and approved by the affirmative vote of 3/4 of the Congress and the approval of the Advisor of SGA.
Section 3. Parliamentarian authority (Parliamentarian) will lie within the duties of a member of the Executive Board.
Section 1. Impeachment Offenses Subsection A.
A member of SGA may be impeached for any offense deemed inappropriate or not in line with the standards and expectations of the organization.
Beyond this, the following are impeachable offenses: more than 3 Unexcused Absences or 3 consecutive absences in a semester (fall or spring), failure to have or maintain the required SGA approved credit hours, and failure to maintain required minimum grade point average. Additionally, in extreme circumstances, SGA may draw up articles of impeachment if a member has committed the following offenses: neglect of duty, sexual harassment, discrimination or bias, public, verbal, or physical attacks, obstruction to orderly process, misrepresentation of SGA, misuse of authority, or any violation of institutional policies in Indiana University policies.
Section 2. Impeachment Procedures Subsection A.
Any member of the IUN student body, faculty or staff may file an article of impeachment by notifying, in writing, the President of SGA, the SGA Advisor and the Director of Student Activities. This must be done via letter, electronically or in person, from the individual or individuals filing charges. Upon receipt of the letter, the Congress will be notified and the article to proceed with Impeachment proceedings shall be seconded, or not, by at least one elected, not appointed, member of the Congress.
If no second is given, the impeachment article dies at this point.
If the article is seconded, the proceedings will be set for a date and time for an impeachment inquiry to be held. This inquiry must happen within 14 days of the receipt of the article by the President and Advisor. All inquiries shall be chaired by the Director of Student Activities. All inquiries must be witnessed by the Dean of Students or their designee.
Any accused party will have the opportunity to address the charges against them at this inquiry and will be asked questions by the current members of Congress or the Executive Board. The accusing party will also have the opportunity to address the Congress and may ask questions of the accused party via the Chair but may not question the accused party directly.
The accused party may elect to have one consultant present that is a current member of the Congress. This consultant shall waive their right to vote, or be present for the vote, on impeachment and/or potential removal. The consultant may serve as advisor or aide to the accused party but shall not have any role in the proceedings. If they speak, the Chair will remove them from the room.
Upon conclusion of the inquiry, the accused party and their consultant must leave the room and will be notified in writing of the Congress’s decision within 24 hours.
The remaining members of Congress and any Executive Board members present shall discuss, and a vote may be called. In order to sustain the impeachment, ⅔ of the members present, including the Executive Board (but not the President who does not vote), must vote in the affirmative. If the vote fails, the impeachment is dropped. If the vote succeeds, the date and time shall be set for a vote on removal of the impeached party or with the approval of the President and Advisor, a vote on removal may be called for immediately.
Section 3. Removal and Replacement
Any appointed member of Congress may be removed at any time from their position by vote of the Executive Board of SGA due to failure to fill duties. All other grounds of removal/replacement must go through the impeachment process. Note that two tardies to full board and or committee meetings qualifies for grounds of an unexcused absence.
Within 7 business days of an affirmative vote to impeach, there needs to be a vote on the removal of the impeached party. In order to remove a member, at least 80% of the members present must vote to do so. This vote shall include all members of Congress and the Executive Board but not the President. The impeached party and their consultant shall not vote or be in attendance at the vote.
If the impeached party is removed, they will be notified electronically by the Director of Student Activities within 48 hours of the conclusion of the vote. The Dean of Students shall also be notified. In the case of an appointed party, the appointing office shall also be notified.
Any removed party will immediately be stripped of all committee assignments and any roles or responsibilities within SGA and the process to replace this individual shall proceed immediately under the leadership of the President. The position should be filled within 30 days.
If a member is removed, they are no longer eligible to be elected or appointed to any SGA position.
If the vote on removal fails, the member shall continue to serve but may be subject to sanctions assigned by the Executive Board of SGA in response to the impeachment. Sanctions must be approved by the advisor of SGA.
Section 4. Resignation
Any Student Government Association member may resign by submitting a notice in writing to the SGA President and Advisor. A resignation is effective upon receipt by the Advisor. Any member that chooses to resign is ineligible to run for Student Government Association positions again until they meet with the Director of Student Activities, or their designee, to make a determination of eligibility to run.
Section 1. Executive Board Amendments Subsection A. The Executive Board of the Student Government Association, by unanimous vote, shall have the authority to adjust, as needed, any Article identified by the Advisor of the SGA for a period of no more than 365 days. After 365 days the full Constitutional Amendment process must be implemented in order to retain the adjustment.
Identification by the advisor must occur in writing to the Executive Board.
Section 2. Presidential Amendments Subsection A. The President, in concurrence with the Advisor of the Student Government Association, shall have the authority to adjust, as needed, any Article identified by the Advisor of the SGA for a period of no more than 160 days. After 160 days the full Constitutional Amendment process must be implemented in order to retain the adjustment. If needed, the Executive Board may choose to extend this adjustment an additional 205 days but after the additional 205 days the full Constitutional Amendment process must be implemented in order to retain the adjustment.
Identification by the President must occur in writing to the Executive Board.
Section 3. Traditional Amendment Process Subsection A. Amendments will first be offered to the Executive Board and approved by them with an affirmative vote of at least 3/4 of the Executive Board. Subsection B. Amendments must then be offered to the full Congress and approved by them with an affirmative vote of at least 2/3 of the Congress. Subsection C. Amendments must then be offered to the full Student Body and approved by them with an affirmative vote of at least 75% of the Student Body. Subsection D. A structured amendment submission process shall be used.
Section 4. New or Restructured Constitutions
Subsection A. Passage of a new or restructured Constitution must occur by an affirmative vote of half plus one of the members present at the SGA meeting where it is discussed. Subsection B. The proposed Constitution will be distributed by the President of SGA to all members in advance of the meeting. Subsection C. After a discussion period at the meeting, a member of the Executive Board will make a motion to vote on the proposed Constitution. Subsection D. This Constitution will go into effect upon approval.
Section 1. Any rules, regulations or duties not specifically enumerated or prohibited herein are to be reserved to the President, in consultation and concurrence of the Advisor.
Section 2. The Student Handbook supersedes all policies in this Constitution when the two documents contradict each other.
Section 1. Student Government Association shall, if they choose, attend the NACA Student Government Association Institute (SGI) and the ASGA Regional Conference each year. Attendance at NACA SGI shall be limited to two members of Congress and two Executive Board members. Attendance at ASGA Regional shall be encouraged for as many members of SGA as the budget will allow.
Section 1. Financial information such as account information, must be transitioned to the Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations, the President, and the SGA Advisor at the conclusion of each academic year.
Section 2. Organizations at Indiana University Northwest can petition for funds for their organization up to $1000 per semester.
Section 3. Funds over $250 must be approved by the Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations, the Campus Life & Operations Committee, the SGA Advisor, and ⅔ of Congress. Funds under $250 may be approved by the Campus Life & Operations Committee with concurrence from the SGA President and SGA advisor.
Section 4. Funds may not be used for individual or organizational travel or any expenses associated with travel.
Section 5. SGA will strictly adhere to the Office of Student Activities Finance Manual when reviewing funds.
Section 1. Any members of Student Governing Association also employed by an institutional department involved in staffing an SGA event are ineligible to work the event for the institutional department without permission from the SGA Advisor.
Section 2. This article shall go into effect when institutional department staffing levels can be adjusted to compensate for potentially less available staff.
Section 1. IUN SGA students are expected to adhere to standards of professionalism and abide by applicable laws, policies, and rules that govern privacy and the dissemination of protected information (e.g., FERPA, HIPAA). When using social media and other internet sites that involve postings, comments, and images, students are expected to refrain from posting protected information, disparaging others, or otherwise conducting themselves in a way that could reasonably be perceived as unethical or unprofessional. Care should be taken when expressing opinions. When expressing opinions, particularly opinions about medical or healthcare issues, students should clearly state that their viewpoints are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of IUN SGA or others. Cyberstalking and similarly inappropriate online activity can be viewed as forms of harassment. IUN SGA students should be mindful of the fact that social media and other internet sites are never completely secure; what is posted can be seen by many, including prospective educational institutions and future employers. Social media conduct that is contrary to this policy may result in disciplinary action (up to and including dismissal from SGA) and in some instances, legal action, if postings violate applicable laws.
Section 1. Fall 2023 Exception
With the exception of Spring 2023 when there will be an election for officers to serve a one semester term in order to transition the organization to fall semester elections.
Section 1. Other Duties As Assigned
All members of the Executive Board and Congress of the Student Government Association are expected to fulfill all other reasonable duties as assigned.
Section 1. Payment of SGA Members
If excess funds are available at the conclusion of each academic year, those funds can be used to pay members of the Student Government Association for their work during this past year. Payment amounts will be determined by the President and Executive Vice President of Campus Life & Operations and approved by the Advisor of SGA.
The Student Government Association shall not deny financial requests, decrease request amounts, or set aside funds simply to reserve money for the purpose of paying SGA members.
Section 2. Attire
SGA Congressional Meetings shall require business casual attire.
Section 1. Records
All records, receipts, minutes, attendance, agendas, publicity, pictures and all other materials used in the approval, planning, marketing, and execution of any SGA activity are official documents belonging to Student Government Association and must be provided in full to the Vice President of Marketing & Communications and maintained for a period of seven years.
There are certain freedoms necessary to effectively communicate with and represent the student body. As a result, the SGA President has the ability and freedom to send an email to the student body at any time regarding SGA or institutional matters.
At times, there is a need to put the communication of SGA priorities in writing for campus administration in order to place that priority on official record but also to emphasize the importance of the matter and the strong encouragement for consideration of the administration. As a result, SGA can and should write resolutions at any time in order to accomplish their responsibilities and goals.
The SGA Office is not to be used as a hangout spot but should only be used for SGA business. You must respect the office and pick up after yourself. You may place garbage and recycling in the bins immediately outside the office door. Additionally, never leave the office open, accessible, or unattended at any time. All members of SGA shall complete one office hour per week in the SGA office. Non-SGA visitors must only be the office space if it is for an official SGA meeting; an exception can be granted by the Advisor of SGA.
At the end of each term in office, there must be a meeting of all the SGA to reflect on the year and discuss accomplishments and goals for the upcoming year.
Executive Board members, Coordinators and Representatives must complete reports to pass along to their successor. These reports are used for tracking events, funding, meetings, processes and procedures, goals, successes and failures, and expenditures for SGA accuracy.
All reports should be submitted electronically to the incoming representative in that role and to the Executive Board member responsible for your committee.
The Student Government Association reserves the right to withhold funds and co-sponsorship opportunities from a particular organization if that organization has failed to uphold the agreements of co-sponsorship or proper use of funds in previous programs. Failure to comply with the process of setting up a bank account and opening a Jaggaer account in a timely manner can be grounds for withholding future funding. SGA is always open to discussing new funding, sponsorship or co-sponsorship opportunities that arise and make sense.
Section 1. Finance Stipulation
All publicity for programs financed by Student Government Association for SGA, USO’s or SGSO’s must say “financed by SGA” on it and include the SGA logo. The Vice President of Marketing & Communications should use the OMC Lockup Creation process to design a logo specifically for this purpose.
Section 1. All legislation shall be made available to the members of the Student Government Association not less than twenty-four (24) hours prior to the day of the SGA Congressional meeting at which time it is to be considered. All proposed legislation is due to the President of the SGA no later than five (5) days prior to the day of the next Congressional meeting. The Advisor shall provide a template to follow for the creation of bills and resolutions.
Subsection A. Bills: A bill is a binding statement of the Congress calling for a specific action in its implementation. A bill requires two-thirds (2/3) affirmative vote of the members present and voting. A bill must be presented to the Congress for the first reading and may be voted on only upon its second reading unless it is considered emergency legislation.
Prior to the introduction of a bill on the Congress floor, the legislative issue must be discussed at the appropriate committee.
The first reading shall consist of questions and answers only, no debate except in the case of emergency legislation.
The second reading shall consist of debate and if approved, an Executive Board member shall bring the bill to the floor for approval or denial. Upon passage, the bill must go to the President of SGA for approval or veto.
If the SGA President vetoes the bill, the Congress can bring the bill back to the assembly to vote to override the veto. The Congress must garner a three-fourths (3/4) majority of the total number of all members of Congress.
Subsection B. A resolution is a nonbinding statement of opinion of the Student Government Association. A resolution requires two-thirds (⅔) affirmative vote of the members present and voting. A resolution may be voted upon at the meeting in which it is introduced.
Section 1. Process.
Subsection 1. Ask them to raise their right hand and repeat after you.
Subsection 2. Give Oath
Subsection 3. Give them certificate and pen (plus gavel for President)
Subsection 4. Shake Hands and applaud.
Section 2. Oath.
“I (state your name),
do solemnly affirm
that I will preserve, protect, and defend
the forthcoming Indiana University Northwest
Student Government Association Constitution,
and I will execute the duties of the office,
of SGA (state position title)
to the best of my abilities, so help me.”
Section 3. Order of Swearing-In
Appointed Congressional Representatives
The structure of the swearing-in process may change based on the preference of the President and Advisor.
Authorization
This Constitution was approved by the SGA Congress and Executive Board by a vote of 0-0 (with __ members of Congress absent) on 00/00/2024 and it shall be passed on to the student body for a vote in the next feasible election cycle.
Affirmative Votes
President
Executive Vice President for Campus Life & Operations
Vice President for Marketing & Communications
Vice President for Academic Affairs
Coordinator of Media
Coordinator of Outreach
Representative for College of Health & Human Services
Representative for School of the Arts
Representative for School of Business & Economics
Representative for School of Education
Representative for College of Arts & Sciences
Representative for Athletics Department
Representative for the Office of Diversity, Equity & Multicultural Affairs
Representative for the Office of Academic Advising
Representative for Career Services
Representative for Dining Services
Representative for Campus Safety
Representative for Library & Information Technology
Negative Votes
Abstention, Unfilled or Absence
Student Government Association President, Deep Govani
Student Government Association Advisor, Patrick R. Doggett
(Non-Voting. Advisor printed name or signature is only an acknowledgement of the completion of the process and verification that the proper process was executed. This is not an approval of or support for any opinion or the contents approved or denied.)
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