Expansion Manual

Sample By-Laws

As of March 18, 1996, these by-laws are in compliance with the By-Laws of FarmHouse International Fraternity, and no

amendments shall be made to these by-laws which contradicts the By-Laws of the International Fraternity.

Article I -- Name

The name of this general fraternity shall be the (name of university) Chapter of FarmHouse Fraternity.

Article II -- Objective

To build men intellectually, spiritually, socially/morally and physically by promoting leadership, scholarship and fellowship, and to establish bonds of brotherhood among its members.

Article III -- Membership

Section 1

A. Membership shall be of four Classifications: 1) Chapter 2) Alumni 3) Associate 4) Affiliate with an optional fifth classification, 5) Pledge

B. No candidate will be excluded from membership based on race, creed, or color.

C. A pledge or active who is found to be in conflict with the Alcohol and Drug Policy of FarmHouse International Fraternity will automatically be reviewed by the Standards Committee for disciplinary measures.

D. A pledge or active who is repeatedly in arrears of payment to the chapter will lose his membership.

Section 2 Pledge Membership (optional)

A. To be eligible for pledge membership and to be a pledge, a man must:

1. Be a enrolled as a university student.

2. If he is at least a second term Freshman, have at least a 2.00 graduation index and at least a 2.00 term index for the past term. A first term or incoming freshman must have at least an SAT score of 900 OR an ACT score of 20 AND a high school GPA of at least 2.75. A transfer student must have at least a B minus cumulative index.

3. Not be a member of any other (inter)national social/general fraternity.

4. Be of good moral character.

5. Give promise of reflecting credit upon the Fraternity.

6. Signify his willingness to perform all of the duties that are required of him by the organization, providing that he is not required to violate his personal integrity with regard to political, moral or religious beliefs.

B. Election to Pledge Membership (if "Pledge" classification of exists)

1. Membership is by invitation of the active chapter and current pledges (if any) only.

2. A quorum of at least 2/3 of the active chapter and current pledges must be present to vote for membership.

3. All votes are by secret ballot and counted by the VP-Recruitment and/or at least one other member designated by him.

4. < If the candidate is at least a second term freshman and has a past term index of at least a 2.75, an invitation to pledge may be extended with 70% or greater positive votes of those voting.

< If the candidate is at least a second term freshman and has a past term index below a 2.75, an invitation may be extended with 90% or greater positive votes of those voting.

5. Provided he meets the above requirements, an incoming freshman or first term student may be extended an invitation with 80% or greater positive votes of those voting.

C. Dismissal from pledge membership:

1. (If Initiation is delayed until the start of the next term...) If a pledge fails to achieve at least a 2.0 term index during his pledge term, he will be initiated only after he achieves at least a 2.0 term index his second pledge term. If he does not achieve at least a 2.0 term index his second pledge term, his pledge membership is terminated.

2. A pledge may be depledged by a 2/3 vote of the active membership. The pledges will be voted on 2 scheduled times prior to initiation.

3. Should a pledge repeatedly fail pledge quizzes, it will be discussed whether or not to continue his pledge membership. Prior to this discussion a meeting will be scheduled between the pledge, his big brother and the pledge educator.

Section 3 Active Membership

A. To be eligible for membership as an active and to remain an active a man must:

1. Satisfactorily complete the pledge education program that is outlined.

2. Achieve at least a 2.0 term index his first pledge term (if Initiation is delayed until the start of the next term), or at least a 2.0 term index his second pledge term.

3. If a pledge or active fails to achieve a term index of at least a 2.0 two consecutive terms, his status as a member is terminated. Alumni status may be conferred to initiated members under the stipulations of Alumni membership. See international Bylaws and Article III , Section 4.B. of this document.

4. Members out of the House and away from campus on co-op, internship, exchange programs or similar situations are eligible for temporary inactive membership status and exempt from International dues for a temporary period of absence; said period of absence must be at least one semester. Temporary absence status may be granted only after consultation with the International Office. (Per International By laws)

B. Initiation

A pledge member (if a pledge period exists) may be initiated when he receives a 2/3 positive vote of the active membership, provided a quorum of at least 2/3 of the eligible voting members are present.

The formal initiation of a member shall be as prescribed in the Ritual and International Bylaws of FarmHouse Fraternity. The informal Pre-Initiation Program shall be reviewed yearly by the Chapter Advisory Committee for approval. Initiation, for pledges, is an affirmation of FarmHouse ideals and standards accomplished through teamwork, education, and self-inspection. For actives, it is a reaffirmation of the ideals and standards.

C. Withdrawal of Membership (Per International Bylaws.)

Any chapter member may be DROPPED from membership in FarmHouse Fraternity by two-thirds (2/3) vote of all active members of the chapter with the unanimous approval of the Chapter Advisory Committee, provided proposal for such ACTION has been discussed in a meeting previous to that in which vote is taken, and providing that the member shall have been given opportunity to speak in his own behalf.

Any alumnus or ex-student may be DROPPED from membership in FarmHouse Fraternity by two-thirds (2/3) vote at any regular of called meeting of the FarmHouse Association of which he is a member, provided the association has been notified of such proposed action thirty (30) days prior to said meeting and providing that the member shall have been given opportunity to speak in his own behalf.

Any chapter member, ex-student, alumnus, or pledge who is dropped from membership shall surrender to the chapter and thence to the Executive Director, his badge, shingle, recognition button and any other FarmHouse Fraternity jewelry and insignia in his possession. Upon receipt by the Executive Director of all such items issued or sold to the former member, the Executive Director shall reimburse to him the amount of credit given the Fraternity by the official jeweler for the FarmHouse jewelry and other items purchased by him, but shall not reimburse him for dues or initiation fees or for those items, property of the Fraternity, which members in good standing are permitted to hold.

Section 4 Alumni Membership (Per International Bylaws)

Alumni membership status may only be conferred by the International Executive Director.

A. It is routinely conferred upon a chapter member when he is reported by his chapter secretary as having:

1. satisfactorily completed all requirements for the degree level; or

2. satisfactorily completed the academic credits for his degree level and having been enrolled or accepted for enrollment in a professional school.

B. A chapter, by two-thirds (2/3) vote and with unanimous approval of its Chapter Advisory Committee, may request the International Executive Director to grant alumni status to a chapter member who:

1. has found it necessary to withdraw from school before completing normal requirements for the baccalaureate degree or its equivalent; or

2. has transferred to another educational institution; or

3. has been enrolled in a professional school; or

4. has found it necessary to enroll for a fifth year in order to complete graduation requirements in his curriculum; or

5. has married; or

6. has proven extenuating circumstances, and requested alumni status.

Section 5 Associate Membership (Per International Bylaws)

Associate membership is conferred upon a man who:

a. has attained a baccalaureate or higher degree or is engaged in an occupation other than that of student;

b. demonstrates the qualities of character, scholarship, and professional excellence to which FarmHouse men aspire;

c. has shown interest in FarmHouse Fraternity; and

d. is approved by 2/3 vote of the chapter and is approved by its Chapter Advisory Committee and the executive committee of the local FarmHouse Association Board of Directors.

e. is not an initiated member of any other general fraternity.

Section 6 Affiliate Membership (Per International Bylaws)

Affiliate chapter membership may be conferred only by chapter members at any regular meeting.

Candidates for affiliate chapter membership:

a. must receive the unanimous vote of the active chapter at any regular meeting of the chapter with the concurrence of the Chapter Advisory Committee.

b. shall be required to pay International initiation fees but shall not be required to pay any International dues.

c. shall be individuals the chapter wishes to recognize for significant contributions to the chapter.

d. shall be individuals in residence at the respective university for less than one (1) year, ie exchange students.

Section 7 Graduate and Married Students

A graduate or married student may be initiated as a chapter member if he qualifies under Section 3.A of this Article, or as an Associate member if he qualifies under Section 5 of this Article.

Article IV -- Officers

Section 1 Qualifications

A. All officers must be active members during the entire term of their office.

B. At the time of taking office, all officers must meet either of two scholastic requirements:

1. Have a 2.20 or above previous term and a graduation index of 2.00 or above.

2. Have a 2.00 or above previous term index and a 2.50 or above graduation index.

C. The President, Secretary, Treasurer (per International ByLaws) and House/Facility Manager must live in the Chapter facility during their term of office.

D. Members on co-op may be elected to an office. A member may be on co-op/Internship during his term of office provided that he remain on active status, pay international dues and applicable local dues, and attend weekly meetings.

Section 2 Election of Officers

A. Nominations for officers will take place during a chapter meeting (provided there exists a quorum of active members present and eligible to vote) on the date set by the Chapter each year, at least one week before elections. A person will be considered nominated for office if he receives three or more votes for that office. Voting will be by secret ballot. The order in which officers will be considered will be as enumerated in Article IV, Section 3. The Executive Committee will tally the votes and a list of nominees will be read to those assembled for nominations; the list will be posted within twenty-four hours.

B. A special chapter meeting for the purpose of electing officers will take place approximately one month before the last day of the fall term to allow time for new officer training and transition. A quorum of 2/3 of active members present and eligible to vote is necessary for the election. The order of consideration will be the same as in nominations. If a nominated man wishes not to be considered, he shall reply to the assembly, "I respectfully decline my nomination". A maximum of a one-minute talk by each candidate will be allowed. After candidates have left the room, a maximum of two minutes of constructive discussion may be allowed per candidate before the vote. Voting will be by secret ballot. The "trickle-down & nominate from the floor" effect is expected after the election of each officer. For example, there are three men running for president; after one of them has been elected it is common for the remaining two to be immediately nominated from the floor for VP-Recruitment, even if they weren't nominated the week before.

C. Vacancies shall be filled in the normal election procedure. At least one-week notice shall be given to the active chapter prior to elections. A quorum of 2/3 the active membership eligible to vote must be present for the election.

Section 3

A. The officers of the chapter shall be:

1. President

2. Vice-President of Recruitment

3. Vice-President - Pledge Education

4. Vice-President of Scholarship & Brotherhood

5. Secretary

6. Treasurer

7. House/Facilities Manager

8. Alumni Relations Chairman

9. Social Chairman(men)

10. Asst. Recruitment Chairman/Summer Recruitment Chairman

11. Asst. Treasurer

12. Philanthropy/Community Service Chairman

13. Campus & Community Relations Chairman

14. Annual Awards Chairman/Historian

15. Athletic Chairman ^*

16. Sergeant at Arms ^*

17. Song Leader ^*

18. Chaplain ^*

19. Senior Critic ^*

* Office that may be held in addition to another office.

B. The Executive Committee shall consist of the President, who will serve as Chairman, the Vice-President of Recruitment, Vice President-Pledge Education, Vice-President of Scholarship & Brotherhood, the Treasurer, the Secretary, and the House/Facilities Manager. The Executive Committee shall decide matters of immediate importance and propose House policies for Chapter consideration. This committee shall also be charged with guaranteeing the proper execution of House policy. The Executive Committee will prepare weekly meeting agendas.

C. The Standards Committee shall consist of a representative from each pledge class, the Sergeant at Arms, the Chaplain, and the Vice President of Scholarship & Brotherhood, serving as chairman and voting only in cases of a tie. Separate elections for the pledge class representatives will be held annually in conjunction with chapter officer elections. Representatives will serve one-year terms, and consecutive terms are allowed. Generally, those who lead the chapter should not also be the same people who discipline chapter members. Therefore, except for the Vice President of Scholarship & Brotherhood, members of the Executive Committee may not serve on the Standards Committee.

The Committee shall act as the judicial board and shall decide matters of discipline of members. All proceedings of the Standards Committee, as well as the disciplined individual, shall be kept strictly confidential unless an appeal is requested. At that point the appeal shall be brought before the active chapter, and with a simple majority vote, they shall make the final disciplinary decision.

Any member may be referred to the Standards Committee for an immediate hearing when at least three members request such a hearing. Any "behavior inconsistent with FarmHouse ideals" or "conduct unbecoming a FarmHouse man" is worthy of a hearing by the Standards Committee.

Section 4 Duties of Officers

A. President

It shall be the duty of the President to:

1. Preside at all meeting.

2. Suggest needed committees.

3. Decide all questions of order.

4. Represent the Fraternity at outside functions unless another person is so designated.

5. Call special meetings.

6. Enforce discipline and observance of all FarmHouse By-Laws and regulations, both International and local.

7. Appoint a Parliamentarian.

8. Work closely with Alumni Officers of the Association.

9. Prepare a report at the end of his term to serve as a guide to the incoming President and conduct a new president training session with the President-Elect.

B. Vice President of Recruitment

It shall be the duties of the Vice President of Recruitment to:

1. Plan & coordinate all membership selection activities.

2. Insure that the chapter is following its approved Member Recruitment Plan, including Hot List and Target Lists.

3. Maintain a supply of recruitment materials, ie brochures, videotapes, bid cards, name tags.

4. Insure that all prospective members meet qualifications set forth in Article III, Section 2.

5. Serve as Chairman of the Recruitment Committee.

6. Call and preside over Bid meetings for the purpose of membership selection.

7. Plan and implement Recruitment Workshops (at least 2 per year) for the entire chapter, to be held at least twice a year.

8. Keep current on sons and recommendations of FH alumni who may becoming college age.

9. Prepare a report at the end of term to serve as a guide to future Vice President-Recruitment. Conduct a training session with Vice President-Recruitment-Elect.

C. Vice President-Pledge Education

It shall be the duties of the Pledge Educator to:

1. Assist the pledges in their self-orientation to FarmHouse Fraternity and to the University.

2. Supervise the duties of the pledges.

3. Act as a communicator between the active members and the pledges.

4. Serve as chairman of the Pledge Education Committee.

5. Oversee the administering of Bid Invitations.

6. Send letter to parents of new pledges informing them of FarmHouse and expressing desire for their involvement in their son's FarmHouse experience.

7. Assign Big Brothers and direct Big Brother/Little Brother Program.

8. Plan and implement pledge retreats/walkouts/sneaks (at least one per semester).

9. Co-direct the alumni Big Brother/Pledge Little Brother Program with the Alumni Relations Chairman.

10. Send initiation ceremony invitations to parents of pledges.

11. Plan and supervise Initiation Week.

12. Plan and direct pledge and initiation ceremonies.

13. Evaluate pledge program with pledge committee at the end of each pledge semester.

14. Prepare an end of term report to serve as a guide to the incoming Pledge Educator. Conduct a training session with the VP-Pledge Education-Elect.

D. Vice President of Scholarship & Brotherhood

It shall be the duties of the Vice President - Scholarship & Brotherhood to:

1. Assume the duties of the President in his absence.

2. Serve as the Continuing/Total Membership Education Chairman.

3. Conduct at least one officer team meeting per term for the purposes of goal setting and evaluation.

4. Serve as an ex officio member for all committees for the purpose of coordinating their actions and goals.

5. Assist in all designated or assigned duties made by the President.

6. Supervise the scholarship files and the library.

7. Post and distribute Master Calendar of all FH events for present and next term.

8. Invite and host special guest speakers for dinners.

9. Each term plan & implement Scholarship Awards Banquets and Favorite Faculty Dinners.

10. Schedule, plan and direct monthly Brother Functions attended exclusively by all brothers

and pledges.

11. Send photos and articles to Pearls and Rubies at least once per term.

12. Insure that Herd Book is current and maintained.

13. Schedule and arrange composite pictures sessions, yearbook pictures, and other photo opportunities.

14. Keep a list of Birthdays of brothers - inform and post announcement when Birthday arrives.

15. Prepare a report at the end of term to serve as a guide to future Vice President of Scholarship & Brotherhood. Conduct a training session with the Vice President-Elect.

E. Secretary

It shall be the duties of the Secretary to:

1. Record, type and file the minutes of all Chapter and Special meetings.

2. Handle all Chapter correspondence.

3. Maintain the Chapter files of all correspondence.

4. Compile and submit to the International Fraternity Office within 30 days all required and requested information, ie Term Reports, Dues, Initiation Fees.

5. Submit news items and photos to Pearls & Rubies at least once per semester.

6. Insure that Herd Book is updated and maintained.

7. Order jewelry and keep members aware of available jewelry.

8. Conduct role call at each meeting, and keep accurate attendance records for all required chapter functions.

9. Prepare an end of term report to serve as a guide to the incoming Secretary and conduct a training session with the Secretary-Elect.

F. Treasurer

It shall be the duties of the Treasurer to:

1. Receive, hold, and keep careful account of all chapter funds.

2. Make such disbursements as authorized by the Chapter.

3. Give monthly financial reports to the Chapter and Advisory Committee. Furnish similar information to the International Executive Director on an annual basis.

4. Be in charge of the operation budget and work with the Assistant Treasurer in its preparation and execution.

5. Present a proposed operating budget at the second regularly scheduled meeting of the spring term.

6. Execute a bond for not less than $1,000, the cost of which to be paid by the Chapter.

7. Enforce collection of delinquent bills with assistance of Executive Committee. After 30 days send notice of delinquency to parents of members.

8. Prepare an end of term report to serve as a guide to the incoming Treasurer. Conduct a training session with the Treasurer-Elect.

G. House & Facilities Manager

It shall be the duties of the House & Facilities Manager to:

1. Supervise all manpower, maintenance and repairs to the house and facilities.

2. Serve as Chairman of the House Operations Committee.

3. Supervise and update House Rules subject to chapter approval.

4. Carry out all duties prescribed by the House Rules.

5. Enforce the House Rules with the assistance of the Pledges.

6. Assign house duties at the beginning of each term.

7. Direct house duty inspections and assign applicable fines and inform treasurer of such fines.

8. Direct work sessions.

9. Purchase all supplies required for facilities maintenance with approval of Assistant Treasurer.

10. Hold fire drills each term and maintain smoke alarms.

11. Prepare a report for the incoming House Manager. Conduct a training session with the Manager-Elect.

H. Alumni Relations Chairman

It shall be the duties of the Alumni Relations Chairman to:

1. Supervise and carryout the Alumni Relations program of the Chapter.

2. Serve as the editor for the Newsletter sent to Chapter Alumni, Parents of Brothers, area Alumni from other Chapters, and one copy to each FarmHouse Chapter.

3. Serve as Chairman for Homecoming and Founder's Day activities.

4. Co-direct the Alumni Big Brother/Pledge Little Brother Program with the Pledge Educator.

5. Send photos and news items to Pearls & Rubies at least once per term.

6. Maintain a current alumni directory.

7. Invite alumni to dinner at least once a month.

8. Prepare a report for the incoming Alumni Relations Director. Conduct a training session for the Alumni Relations Chairman-Elect.

I. Social Chairman(men)

It shall be the duties of the Social Chairmen to:

1. Schedule, supervise and plan for social events throughout the year and make all arrangements for such events so that they are consistent with the policy and regulations of FarmHouse Fraternity.

2. Serve as Co-Chairmen of the Social Committee.

3. Arrange for the serving and preparation of food at all social functions.

4. Educate members each term on the FarmHouse Alcohol and Drug Policy.

5. Plan and direct Founder's Day Dinner-Dance/Awards Banquet.

6. Assist the pledge class in arranging mixers with sorority pledge classes.

7. Plan sweetheart crowning at formal dance.

8. Design favors for events for purchase by members.

9. Provide an escort for Housemother at all FarmHouse functions she wishes to attend.

10. Coordinate etiquette seminars/dinners.

11. Prepare an end of term report to serve as a guide for the incoming Social Chairmen. Conduct a training session with the Social Chairmen-Elect.

J. Assistant Recruitment Chairman/Summer Recruitment Chairman

It shall be the duties of the Assistant Recruitment Chairman to:

1. Assist the Vice President of Recruitment with Recruitment details, events and preparations.

2. Lead the chapter's summer recruitment effort, including organizing at least two "regional" summer rush events within the state, and making (or arranging) personal visits to incoming freshmen men and their parents throughout the summer.

K. Assistant Treasurer

It shall be the duties of the Assistant Treasurer to:

1. Act as a Business Manager for the House and work closely with the officers in the purchase of items needed for their particular office.

2. Work in conjunction with the Treasurer in preparation and execution of the budget and other items as necessary.

3. Prepare an end of term report to serve as a guide to the incoming Assistant Treasurer. Conduct a training session with the Assistant Treasurer-Elect.

L. Philanthropy/Community Service Chairman

It shall be the duties of the Philanthropy/Community Service Chairman to:

1. Plan and direct, or arrange for chapter to engage in, at least one community service project per semester.

2. Communicate with International Office on details of FarmHouse International Philanthropy and how to participate.

3. Serve as Chairman of the Community Service Committee.

4. Prepare an end of term report to serve as a guide to the incoming Philanthropy/Community Service Chairman. Conduct a training session with the Philanthropy/Community Service Chairman-Elect.

M. Campus/Community Relations Chairman

It shall be the duties of the Campus/Community Relations Chairman to:

1. Supervise and carryout the campus/community relations program of the Chapter.

2. Serve as Chairman of the Campus Relations Committee.

3. Promote exposure of FarmHouse on campus - assist Rush Committee.

4. Submit timely personal ads and news items to campus newspaper.

5. Send Welcome Back, Christmas, Have a good summer, and Thank You cards to all sororities and other selected organizations or persons.

6. Send Christmas cards to parents of brothers.

7. Educate and encourage chapter participation in campus contests and events.

8. Keep members abreast of campus organization opportunities.

9. Assist Vice President-Scholarship & Brotherhood in hosting special guests for dinners.

10. Send Founders Day Awards Banquet/Dance invitations to parents of brothers.

11. Prepare an end of term report for the incoming Campus/Community Relations Chairman. Conduct a training session with the Campus/Community Relations Chairman-Elect.

N. Annual Awards Chairman/Historian

It shall be the duties of the Historian to:

1. Coordinate all applications for the International Annual Awards to be completed & submitted on time to the International Office.

2. Yearly assemble the Chapter scrapbook and provide means for display.

3. Provide for photographs and videos to be taken at all applicable events.

4. Assist Vice President-Recruitment in producing rush displays, videos, slide shows, etc.

5. Submit photos and news items to Pearls & Rubies at least once per term.

6. Help to update and maintain the Herd Book.

7. Yearly organize the voting and awarding of all chapter awards described in the Chapter Awards Article of these by-laws.

O. Athletic Chairman

It shall be the duties of the Athletic Chairman to:

1. Supervise and promote all athletic events of the Chapter.

2. Schedule and plan for all athletic events throughout the year and arrange them so they are consistent with the policy and regulations of FarmHouse Fraternity.

3. Keep Chapter aware of all IFC intramural opportunities and organize teams.

4. Assist Vice President-Recruitment with any athletic rush events.

P. Sergeant at Arms

It shall be the duties of the Sergeant at Arms to:

1. Prepare facility for all meetings, ceremonies and functions.

2. Assist President in keeping order.

3. Be caretaker of FarmHouse items, ie Flag, Coat of Arms, composite, plaques, etc.

4. Guard door at all meetings and ceremonies.

Q. Songleader

It shall be the duties of the Songleader to:

1. Lead all singing at meals, serenades, meetings, ceremonies and other such events.

2. Keep a current wordsheet and cassette of all Chapter songs.

3. Work with pledge class Songleader to insure pledges are learning all songs and properly serenading.

4. Organize all song practices.

5. Plan and direct at least on whole-chapter serenade per school year.

6. Prepare an end of term report to serve as a guide for the incoming Songleader. Conduct a training session for with the Songleader-Elect.

R. Chaplain

It shall be the duties of the Chaplain to:

1. Organize devotion leaders for each Chapter meeting.

2. Organize Bible studies to be available for chapter members and guests.

3. Plan and direct a Chapter Church Program where brothers may attend church together once per month.

4. Plan spiritual retreats.

5. Assemble a list of churches that brothers attend and times of services, and keep list posted.

6. Be available for personal counseling for members.

S. Senior Critic

It shall be the duties of the Senior Critic to:

1. Act as the undergraduate advisor of the chapter, offering a report at each meeting at the reserved time in the agenda.

2. Be observant of the actions of all members and prospective members and make helpful and constructive suggestions in order to build a stronger and more closely-knit brotherhood.

3. Elicit frequent suggestions and advice from the chapter advisors and the housemother that should be discussed at meetings.

4. Work with the membership education director, the social chairmen, the scholarship chairmen, et al, in advising younger members concerning social issues, academic issues, etc.

5. Be a good example for the members by living up to and upholding the standards of FarmHouse.

Section 5 Term of Office

The officers shall be installed at the first Chapter meeting after the beginning of the second term. They shall serve until the next set of officers is installed and shall be responsible for the execution of their duties at all times including vacations.

Section 6 Removal of Office

A. An officer may be impeached and removed from his office by at least a three-fourths (3/4) vote of the active membership, provided a quorum of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the active chapter are present.

B. If an officer receives below a 2.00 term index, he must submit his resignation to the active chapter.

Article V -- Chapter Advisory Committee

 

Section 1

The Chapter Advisory Committee shall be selected and serve as outlined in the International By-Laws. The committee shall designate one of their membership to serve as the representative to the Fraternity Advisory Association if one exists at the university.

Section 2

The members of the Chapter Advisory committee shall be selected by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of all active members. The members of the committee shall be selected to serve for three-year terms with a new member being selected each year. All shall serve terms consistent with the Chapter Officers. At least one advisor should be in attendance at each regularly scheduled chapter meeting.

Article VI -- Finances

 

Section 1 Bills

A. All bills, fees and dues will be established in the spring term by a 2/3 vote of the active chapter and pledges, following the Treasurer's proposal.

Section 2 Credit

A. Each pledge, active, and associate member shall pay such fees as may be required by the International Organization and the local Chapter.

B. Each pledge and active shall pay all bills, fees and dues including all valid charges within thirty (30) days after it was due.

C. All actives must have paid in full their debt to the Chapter before graduation.

D. Pledges will be assessed for International and applicable local dues, all applicable fees and fines, provided they have been allowed to vote on all financial matters of the chapter since the beginning of their pledge membership.

E. All active members and pledges of the Chapter must show an interest in paying all fees. This will be deemed acceptable if a promissory note is signed, and the entire debt is cleared by the end of the current school term. The member further agrees that failure to pay these fees in accordance with chapter bylaws may result in his account being remanded to a collection agency. Upon his account being placed with a collections agency the member assumes responsibility for all fees incurred with such collections activity, including, but not limited to: percentage based fees, service fees, credit bureau reporting fees and attorneys fees. If a member does not pay by the due date, a $10 fine may be assessed to his account immediately and a 5% interest rate will be levied on the outstanding debt, if the payment is not received within 30 days. In order to generate operating capital, a $5 surcharge may be added to each member's bill. The money will be credited back to each member when the debtor has cleared his account. If the debt is not paid upon his graduation or withdrawal from the university, the chapter will encumber the grades of the debtor and withhold alumni status with FarmHouse International Fraternity. The Executive Committee reserves the right to interpret this proposal on a case by case basis.

F. If, at any time, a member is behind on any of his financial obligations to the chapter over 30 days, he immediately loses all voting rights and is not allowed to attend chapter social events until his debt to the chapter is paid in full.

G. If any of the above paragraphs cannot be fulfilled, it shall be up to the Executive Committee to review the financial needs of the member and set the policy accordingly, but to do so only in extreme circumstances.

Section 3 Audit

A. An annual audit of the chapter records shall be completed at the beginning of the calendar year to coincide with the beginning of the term of office of the Chapter Treasurer.

B. A committee consisting of the retiring Treasurer, the newly elected Executive Committee, the newly elected Assistant Treasurer and at least one advisor, shall be responsible for preparing the documents for the audit.

C. The audit shall be completed preferably by an independent C.P.A. with no bias towards the house or its members.

D. A copy of the auditor's findings shall be sent to the Association.

Article VII -- Procedure

Section 1 Meetings

Meetings shall be of three types: Chapter, Bid and Special.

A. Chapter Meetings

1. Weekly Chapter meetings shall be held during the school year.

2. Attendance shall be taken at all Chapter meetings.

3. Two-thirds (2/3) of the active members shall constitute a quorum.

4. Parliamentary Procedure will be governed by Robert's Rules of Order.

5. Actives shall be allowed one vote at Chapter meetings. Advisors, Alumni, members and pledges will be allowed in attendance. Pledges shall be allowed to vote on all financial matters.

6. Meetings shall be opened with a devotion along with the reciting of the Object.

7. All members are required to attend meetings.

8. Written excuses must be submitted to the President at least two (2) hours prior to the meeting. Approval of the President must be granted to be excused.

9. In most cases, a majority vote is all that is necessary for chapter decisions (see parliamentary procedures guidelines.)

B. Bid Meetings

1. Bid Meetings will be called for the purpose of selecting new members.

2. Attendance will be taken.

3. Attendance will be open to all members and current pledges.

4. All active members and pledges are entitled to vote.

5. Two-thirds (2/3) of the members and pledges shall constitute a quorum.

C. Special Meetings

1. May be called at any time by the President; or

2. by a majority of the members upon written request to President.

3. If pledges are allowed to attend, two-thirds (2/3) of both the members and pledges shall constitute a quorum. If the meeting is meant for active members only, two-thirds (2/3) of the active members of the chapter shall constitute a quorum.

Section 2 Brother Development

At each regularly scheduled chapter meeting a time is reserved for one brother at a time to accept constructive criticism, both positive and negative, from his brothers in a controlled, diplomatic manner. Depending on the size of the chapter, one or several men may receive criticism at each meeting, but enough so that each man receives critiquing at least twice each school year.

Section 3 Voting

A. Each eligible ("eligible" depends upon the instance) member is entitled to one vote.

B. Each eligible member must be present to vote, unless prior arrangements have been made and approved by the President.

C. Pledges are eligible to vote on all financial issues.

Section 4 Duties

It is the duty of each member of the Fraternity to obey the rules of the Fraternity. House Rules and Duties and Kitchen Rules and Duties will be kept as separate documents from these by-laws.

Section 5 Fines

A. Members missing previously agreed mandatory functions without an approved absence excuse will be assessed fines plus one duty. Examples Follow:

$10 FINES Chapter Meetings & $30 FINES Ceremonies

Social Mixers Rush/Bid Meetings

Homecoming Elections

Work Sessions Fall Retreat/Spring Lock-in

Not updating Herd Book House Serenade

All others decided by Chapter. Founders Day

Scholarship Banquet

All others decided by Chapter

B. Other fines may be imposed from $5 to $30 by the Standards Committee for disciplinary violations.

C. Revenue from all fines will be placed in the Chapter Building/Facility Fund.

Section 6 Recruitment and Pledge Education programs evaluation

Yearly the Chapter will evaluate and approve by a majority vote the Recruitment and Pledge Education Programs.

Section 7 Live-Out Status

The Chapter facility shall be filled to capacity (as defined by the Association) at all times during the regular school year, provided there is an equal or greater number of undergraduate members than house capacity. The chapter reserves the right to mandate that any or all members live in the chapter facility for a period of time while they are undergraduates. Only members shall be allowed to reside in the chapter house, including holidays and summers, except under extreme circumstances. Typically live-out status will be granted based upon seniority - the greatest amount of time since initiation (Herd Book order), then by shortest amount of time until graduation date.

Article VIII -- House Sweetheart

Section 1

A. To be eligible for election it is preferable that the woman be a University student, sister to an Active member, or pinned, or engaged to an active. She must be able to serve a complete term before graduation.

B. The Sweetheart will be crowned at a special Chapter event such as Spring Formal, Founders' Day, Homecoming, etc, for the term of one year. She is then requested to assist in crowning her successor the following year.

Article IX -- Chapter Awards

Section 1 Annual Chapter Awards

The following shall be awarded by the chapter annually:

A. The Doane Award (a FarmHouse International Award) - Given to the outstanding senior of the chapter, the only international award bestowed on an individual chapter member. The process of voting and awarding shall be done as stated in the Pledge and Membership Handbook.

B. The Darl Snyder Award (a FarmHouse International Award) - Given to an alumnus who has made significant contributions to the members of the chapter. The process of voting and awarding shall be done as stated in the Pledge and Membership Handbook.

C. The Joan Chad Skinner Award (a FarmHouse International Award) - Given in honor and recognition of a woman who by her acts has contributed to the growth and development of the chapter, and who has given of herself, so that the ideals of FarmHouse would become stronger and attain a meaning beyond that of mere words. The process of voting and awarding shall be done as stated in the Pledge and Membership Handbook.

Section 2 Term Awards

The following shall be awarded by the chapter each term, recognizing accomplishments of the previous term:

A. High Grade Point Average - Active Member

B. High Grade Point Average - Pledge Member

C. Most Improved Grade Point Average

D. Highest Number of Academic Points

Example: 4.0 with 15 credit hours = 60 points

3.8 with 18 credit hours = 68.4 points

E. High GPA Little Brother/Big Brother Team

F. High Senior Member Cumulative Grade Point Average

Section 3 Weekly Awards

The following shall be awarded by the chapter weekly:

A. An award (name of which to be decided by the chapter) to recognize outstanding brotherhood, outstanding achievements, gentlemanly conduct, good deeds/service, selflessness, etc.

B. An "award" (name of which to be decided by the chapter) to recognize and denounce, in a friendly but embarrassing manner, acts of buffoonery, carelessness, nongentlemanly conduct, etc.

Article X -- Amendments

Section 1

These By-laws may be amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the active members at a regular Chapter meeting, provided a quorum exists, and provided the amendment is submitted in writing and posted one week prior to the vote.

Article XI -- Ratification

Section 1

This document may be ratified by a 2/3 vote of the active chapter present, provided a quorum of 2/3 of the active membership is present.

Article XII -- Commitments

I I will know and understand the ideals expressed in my Fraternity Ritual and will strive to incorporate them in my daily life.

II I will strive for academic achievement and practice academic integrity.

III I will respect the dignity of all persons; therefore, I will not physically, mentally, psychologically or sexually abuse or haze any human being.

IV I will protect the health and safety of all human beings.

V I will respect my property and the property of others; therefore, I will neither abuse nor tolerate the abuse of property.

VI I will meet my financial obligations in a timely manner.

VII I will neither use nor support the use of illegal drugs; I will neither misuse nor support the misuse of alcohol.

VIII I acknowledge that a clean and attractive environment is essential to both physical and mental health; therefore, I will do all in my power to see that the chapter property is properly cleaned and maintained.

IX I will challenge all my fraternity members to abide by these fraternal expectations and will confront those who violate them.

Month/Year

ADOPTED

REVISED

 

I have read and understand the above By-Laws of the Chapter of FarmHouse and hereby agree to uphold and abide by said By-Laws. I understand that repeated non-compliance will cause my membership to be in question.

Signature of Member

Date

Signature of Parent/Guardian if Member is under 18 years old

Date