What is a Constitution?
A constitution contains the fundamental principles that outline the purpose, structure, and limits of an organization. Essentially, the constitution provides a foundation upon which an organization operates.
Why should I have a Constitution?
Every recognized student organization at the University of Washington Bothell is required to file a current copy of their constitution and bylaws with the Office of Student Life each year at recognition. An updated copy should be filed promptly should the document change during the year. Your constitution serves an important purpose for your organization. The process of writing a constitution should help to:
- Clarify your purpose
- Outline your basic structure
- Provide the cornerstone for building an effective group
- Allow members and potential members to have a better understanding of what the organization is all about and how it functions.
If you keep in mind the value of having a written document that clearly describes the basic framework of your organization, the drafting of a constitution will be a much easier and more rewarding experience.
How to Write a Constitution
A constitution should provide the structure for an organization, describe its purpose, and define the duties and responsibilities of the officers and members. The objective is to draft a document that covers these topics in a simple, clear, and concise manner.
Outline
Below is an outline of the elements your organization's constitution should contain. You can view samples of other constitutions in the ASUWB office.
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General Outline for Constitution
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Article I:
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State the complete, official name of the organization. If appropriate specify any other variation of the official name that the organization might use in its contacts with the public
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Article II:
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State the purpose and mission of the organization.
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Article III:
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List the qualifications, requirements, rights duties and all other conditions for membership in the organization. If desired include benefits and privileges of membership. Specify how membership may be resigned or terminated.
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Article IV:
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List the officers, the terms of office, and their general duties and responsibilities. A provision of filling vacancies may also be included in a section under this article.
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Article V:
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Stat the makeup of the executive committee, board of directors, or council; the method of selection; term of office and its general duties and responsibilities. A provision for filling vacancies may also be included in a section under this article.
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Article VI:
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State frequency of general and special meetings; who may call a meeting, agenda/minutes quorum requirements; a meeting in order to conduct the organization’s business, i.e., QUORUM (This number is usually a simple majority.)
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OTHER POSSIBLE TOPICS TO INCLUDE
- Advisor
- Club Dues/Fees
- Committees
- Impeachment of officers
- Amendments to the Constitution
- Service Component
- Dissolution
Getting Started
Not sure how to get started? Try using this sample contitution as a foundation to created one for your organization. If you have questions at any point please contact the Student Life.