Constitution and By-Laws Revision
A comprehensive update aligning with our strategic goals and enhancing our governance structure.
About the Revision
The Administrative Faculty Senate (AFS) is proud to present our revised Constitution and By-Laws for ratification. This document represents our commitment to effective governance, transparency, and advocacy for all administrative faculty at Southern Connecticut State University.
Development Process
This revision has been in development by the Constitution and By-Laws Committee since the beginning of the 2024-2025 academic year. The committee has worked diligently to create a document that:
- Aligns with the AFS strategic plan
- Reflects current needs and practices of our administrative faculty
- Establishes clear protocols and procedures
- Enhances representation and engagement
Once ratified by the administrative faculty, the revised Constitution and By-Laws will become effective immediately.
Key Changes
The proposed 2025 draft includes significant updates from the 2014 Constitution. Here are the major changes.
Structure and Organization
- More detailed organization with expanded articles and sections
- Clearer delineation of roles, responsibilities, and procedures
- Addition of specific timelines and deadlines
Executive Committee Changes
- Addition of President-Elect and Treasurer-Trustee positions
- Removal of Secretary for External Communications role
- Extended President's term limit from one to two years
- More detailed description of each officer's duties
- Creation of Steering Committee structure
Membership Updates
- More specific qualifications for membership, excluding senior leadership team
- Clarification of ex-officio membership status
- More detailed process for filling vacancies
Committees
- Addition of new standing committees:
- Administrative Policy Advisory Committee
- Constitution and By-Laws Committee
- Empowerment and Engagement Committee
- More detailed committee structures and responsibilities
- Enhanced committee reporting requirements
Meeting Procedures
- Addition of online/hybrid meeting options
- More detailed visitor participation guidelines
- Stronger meeting conduct and decorum rules
- Enhanced transparency requirements for minutes and documentation
Voting and Elections
- More detailed election procedures
- Expanded voting methods including electronic voting
- Clearer quorum requirements
Ratification Process
Changes in the Constitution and By-Laws
A. Recommendations for changes in the Constitution shall be made at a regular or special meeting of the AFS provided:
- The AFS members have received written notice of each of the proposed changes, and the forthcoming vote, at least one week prior to the meeting; and
- The vote takes place when two-thirds or more of the AFS membership is present; and
- Two-thirds (2/3) of those present vote to approve the change.
B. Recommended changes to the Constitution that have been approved by the AFS shall be presented to the SCSU Administrative Faculty for a vote.
Changes in the Constitution shall be made when two-thirds (2/3) of those voting approve the change(s).
C. Changes in the By-Laws
Changes in the By-Laws may be made at a regular or special meeting of the AFS with the approval of two-thirds (2/3) majority of the Senate membership.
Your Vote Matters
As a member of the Administrative Faculty, your participation in this ratification process is crucial. Please review the proposed changes carefully and be prepared to cast your vote.
Voting will take place according to the procedures outlined above. Instructions and a link to secure voting will be provided via email to administrative faculty eligible to vote.
Questions and Feedback
We welcome your questions, comments, and feedback on the proposed changes. Please submit your input through the AFS Feedback Form.