The Ohio Eta Chapter of Pi Kappa Delta is a National Forensics and Communication Honorary Organization, and, established in 1930, is one of the oldest and most honored student organizations at Bowling Green State University. The student organization works in conjunction with the Forensics & Debate Program and Office of Campus Activities to provide a social/service forum, advocating communication involvement. Membership is open to any undergraduate student demonstrating interest and commitment to forensics, debate or communication activities. On a bi-yearly basis, the Pi Kappa Delta National Organization attends a National Convention and Tournament, bringing together members from across the nation for competition, discussion, networking and fellowship. On “non-national years”, Pi Kappa Delta offers a provincial tournament and participates in the National Honorary Comprehensive Tournament. Recently, BGSU chartered an alumni chapter to include the thousands of BGSU alumni who have been a part of the organization since it’s founding. For more information, contact Falcon4N6@BGSU.edu
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PKD Meeting Minutes
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The Constitution of the Ohio Eta Chapter of Pi Kappa Delta
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, Ohio 43403
Adopted 1, September 2008
Amended 24, July 2016
ARTICLE I - NAME
100-Organizational Name
The name of this Forensic Honorary Organization shall be “Pi Kappa Delta”, the initial letters of the Greek phrase Peitho Kale Dikia, signifying “the art of persuasion, beautiful and just”. The name shall be written thus: PKD on all insignia of the fraternity. This chapter is established as the Ohio, Eta Chapter. The Greek insignia shall be as follows: ΠΚΔ.
ARTICLE II - PURPOSE
200-Purpose Statement
Pi Kappa Delta is a national honorary organization consisting of educators, students and alumni committed to encouraging the education of articulate citizens through a three part focus: the commitment to and promotion of ethical, humane and inclusive communication and educational practices; the commitment to and promotion of professional development of forensics educators; and the commitment to and promotion of comprehensive forensics programs.
ARTICLE III-ORGANIZATION
300-Divisions
Pi Kappa Delta shall be composed of three divisions: the Local Chapter, the Province Organization, and the National Organization. (This constitution applies only to the Local Chapter.)
301-Local Chapter
This chapter is considered to be an active chapter if the annual dues are paid each academic year and new members are enrolled. If this chapter does not meet the criteria for three consecutive years, it will be listed as an inactive chapter with the national organization. Inactive chapters may not participate in Pi Kappa Delta sponsored events. To become active again, the chapter must pay the current year’s dues, initiate new members, and pay a reactivation fee. Local Chapters consist of two kinds: Undergraduate and Alumni. This chapter is established as an “Undergraduate Chapter”.
301.1-Local Undergraduate Chapter
This Local Undergraduate Chapter is established in a recognized and regionally accredited college, which offers course work beyond the associate of arts degree. This chapter is sponsored through the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Media & Communication, Department of Communication at Bowling Green State University. This organization was chartered and recognized by Bowling Green State University and the National Office of Pi Kappa Delta on 23, May, 1930, making it one of the oldest student organizations at Bowling Green State University. Charters are activated by a written letter of support by the president of the university.
301.2-Constitutional Regulation
This Local Chapter shall have full charge of all its activities within the limits of the Pi Kappa Delta National Constitution. A copy of this constitution shall be regularly submitted to the Bowling Green State University Office of Campus Activities along with the official student organization recognition and report paperwork.
302.1-New Membership
New membership will be enlisted by December 1 of each academic year. Membership is open to all Bowling Green State University students. New membership will be reported to the National Secretary-Treasurer by the Chapter Vice President. Failure to do so may subject the Local Chapter to probation or on an inactive status.
302.2-Chapter Inactive Status
If the Local Chapter membership falls below 5 active members for two consecutive years, it will be classified as an inactive chapter and therefore, have none of the rights specified of the active chapters specified in the National Constitution. The chapter may be returned to active status by bringing the membership up to the constitutional requirements and by paying current chapter dues. Procedures are subject to the National Council. In the event of falling under membership standard, the faculty sponsor may wave the membership application and induction to appoint members as long as reasonable expectations or circumstances prevail.
302.3-National Vote
The Local Chapter has one vote in the affairs of the Providence Organization and the National Organization. This vote may be delegated to a representative in case of conventions and shall be a majority vote of a chapter’s active members in case of referendum. In the event of non-participation by members, the faculty sponsor shall hold the responsibility of casting official votes on behalf of the chapter.
302.4-Initiation Fee
The National Council sets the mandatory initiation fee for members of all divisions of membership, payable upon application, with majority approval by the National Convention. At the time of thes constitutional revision, the national membership fee is $50 for a lifetime membership.
302.5-Chapter Member Fees
This chapter has established an annual membership fee of $10, payable to the chapter Treasurer during the fall academic term. Membership fees are deposited within the chapter’s budget account for use as deemed appropriate by a vote of the membership.
303-Election & Retention of Officers
The Local Chapter will elect officers at least once each year during the spring term. The following offices must be filled: President, Vice President, Secretary, Historian/Engagement Officer and Treasurer. A non-elected position of Travel Coordinator must be filled by appointment and elected officers may fill the duties of this position. In the event of insufficient candidates, the chapter may vote to merge the office of Secretary with that of Treasurer until suitable candidates are available. The Local Chapter will follow Robert’s Rules of Order in the election process. All officers must be active members either engaged in competitive forensics or communication service events during the terms of service. A cumulative 2.5 grade point average must be upheld by all officers in compliance with Office of Campus Activities policy. An officer can be removed from office should they fall below active status, fail to attend meetings, fail to support the organization or be deemed unworthy by a 2/3 vote of the active membership. It is the President's responsibility to coordinate chapter elections, including the creation of a written or electronic ballot. In the event that the chapter President is unavailable or is running for office him/herself, this duty, refers to the faculty sponsor. It is the faculty sponsor's responsibility to tally all ballots and announce the results of the election.
303.1-Duties of Officers
The duties of the officers will be as follows:
303.1.1-President
The duties of President will include, but shall not be limited to, organizing and presiding over all meetings and other Pi Kappa Delta matters. The President will maintain open communication with the faculty sponsor. The President will also follow all rules and guidelines set for organizations by Bowling Green State University. The President further serves as liaison and representative on behalf of the organization and is bound by its constitution. Special coordination must take place between Pi Kappa Delta and the BGSU Falcon Forensics and Debate Team/Director of Forensics and Debate. Specific duties include:
303.1.2-Vice-President
The duties of Vice-President will include, but not be limited to, filling in for the President in presiding over the Pi Kappa Delta meetings if the President is not available. The Vice-President will also replace the President due to the position being revoked or if the President leaves the school for any reason. Beyond this role, the Vice-President is responsible for the following:
303.1.3-Secretary
The duties of Secretary will include, but not limited to, keeping accurate minutes at all meetings of the Local Chapter and making the minutes available in a timely fashion. The Secretary-Treasurer will also be responsible in taking care of all correspondence of Pi Kappa Delta members as needed and is responsible for maintaining all communication with the greater community. The Secretary will take the responsibilities of a Historian position as needed by the Local Chapter, if unelected. Duties include:
303.1.4-Treasurer
The Treasurer will have the responsibility to keep an accurate and available record of all moneys related to the Local Chapter and be responsible for the maintenance of said funds. Further, the Treasurer will work with the BGSU Office of Campus Activities (OCA) concerning issues of fundraising, budgeting, Treasurer Training and matters connected to the responsible financial well-being of the organization. Duties include:
303.1.5-Chapter Historian/Engagement Officer
The duties of the chapter Historian will include, but not be limited to, maintaining yearly team records such as scrapbook, photographs, and statistics. The duties will further include, but are not limited to, publicity and motivational activities. Examples include: news releases, recruitment, outreach activities, social media and community relations. [In collaboration with the Vice-President and Secretary]
The Chapter Historian/Engagement Officer must be a traveling member of the BGSU Falcon Forensics & Debate Team. Duties include:
303.1.6-Travel Coordinator
The duties of the chapter Travel Coordinator (an appointed position) will include, but not be limited to, coordination of travel paperwork and events between the Pi Kappa Delta Chapter, Falcon Forensics and Debate Team and Office of campus Activities. Specific duties include:
The Chapter Travel coordinator must be a traveling member of the BGSU Falcon Forensics & Debate Team. Duties include:
304-Sponsorship
This Local Chapter shall have a faculty sponsor who shall be recognized by the college and the Pi Kappa Delta national office. If at any time, the chapter does not have a sponsor, it shall be grounds for possible action resulting in the chapter being placed on probation or having its charter revoked. It shall be the responsibility of the faculty sponsor to serve as a sounding board and resource for all organizational decisions. The faculty sponsor must be a member of Pi Kappa Delta in good standing and has all the rights, privileges and expectations of said membership. At the chapter level, the sponsor has one vote on all chapter issues, but also has the power to “table” or “veto” any decision in order to maintain alignment with university expectations, values or standards. The faculty sponsor has the right to suspend the constitution in order to make decisions in the best interest of the chapter, should reasonable administrative decisions be ineffective or immediate action warranted.
304.1-Sponsor to keep chapter in Regulation to National Standards
The faculty sponsor of the Chapter shall be the responsible head of the undergraduate organization as far as its relation with the National Organization is concerned and he or she shall be responsible for the fulfillment of the requirements of the constitution and the regulation of the National Organization.
305-Meeting Dates
The Local Chapter shall meet a minimum of once per month or as deemed appropriate in order to meet organizational needs. The meeting schedule will be established the spring term prior to the active academic year and will note all regular meetings for the full academic year. Additional "special" meetings may be called by the PKD officers as long as sufficient notice is given to all active members so they may attend. "Officer Only" meetings are permitted.
ARTICLE IV-ADMISSION AND RETENTION OF MEMBERS
400-Eligibility
Membership in Local Chapter will be open to individuals in good academic standing at Bowling Green State University and who participate and show proficiency in competitive or non-competitive communication events and/or service projects. Individual chapters under the National Charter may define the appropriate level of participation and grade point for initial membership. This chapter defines participation according to the National Charter and requires a cumulative 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale for membership (the same average established by BGSU establishing good academic standing). Eligible students must have participated in a minimum of 3 forensics tournaments and/or Communication Service Projects. They must be selected by the active membership. Criteria used for this selection may include: Dedication, Reliability, Involvement, Academic Standards, Service and Understanding/Commitment to Pi Kappa Delta Values. Eligibility must be verified by the faculty sponsor.
401-Application for Membership
Upon determination of eligibility, the Chapter Vice-President shall send a formal written invitation to each potential member. Each candidate for membership in this honorary shall make note in writing/email to the Vice President of Pi Kappa Delta noting their desire to join. The Chapter shall then make an investigation of the eligibility of the candidate, and after two-thirds affirmative vote of the active members, shall recommend the applicant for membership. The applicant shall complete an online application form to the National Office together with the initiation fee as provided by the National Council as noted in 302.4. The National Secretary-Treasurer shall issue the membership card and pin. After completing the Chapter induction ritual, the applicant shall be given the standing for which he or she is eligible as a regular member with all privileges. A membership certificate will be issued upon request at cost.
402-Induction
The qualified members for induction will be notified at the minimum of two weeks before the induction. All those involved in the ceremony will be required to wear tournament dress. The inductees will be required to go through no pledging, however, they will be required to memorize the Greek Alphabet, in order to help foster an understanding of the importance of an honorary fraternity. They will be expected to present a portion of a forensics event or defense of a service project and will be subject to reasonable questions from a panel of active members. This chapter will follow the induction ceremony that can be found in the National Pi Kappa Delta Ritual Guidelines. The ceremony that will be followed can be found in the Bi-laws. The organization fully supports and adheres to BGSU and national anti-hazing policies.
403-Non-Payment Delinquency
The Local Chapter shall have the power to levy such assessments on its active members as it may choose. Nonpayment of assessment shall render the delinquent liable to transfer to inactive membership by a three-fourths affirmative vote of the active members of the chapter. Due notice must be given to the National Secretary-Treasurer as deemed appropriate.
403.1-Inactive Membership
Members are required to support the organization and to attend regularly scheduled meetings. Members are considered “active” as long as the criterion for eligibility is met. In addition, active members are expected to attend monthly meetings, support Pi Kappa Delta events, fundraisers, conventions and programs. Failure to attend required meetings may result in suspension from active status based on a 2/3 vote of the membership. Inactive members may participate in meetings, but forfeit their voting rights and the right to hold office until reactivated.
403.2-Readmission of Inactive Members
An inactive member (non-competing or communication service) may regain active status upon payment of all past dues and assessments that were unpaid during the period of inactive status. Then with the payment of the designated national reinstatement fee and completion of the reinstatement ceremony, the inactive member can regain active status with a two-thirds affirmative vote of the Local Chapter's active members is required. A two-thirds affirmative vote of the Local Chapter’s active members is required. Notice of the reinstatement shall be sent to the National Secretary-Treasurer.
404-Honor Policy
Members are to respect other members within this chapter, other forensic teams, chapters, and the National Constitution. Members will have respect for all materials used. Members are encouraged and expected to conduct themselves in conformance with the highest of standards in regard to academic honesty. Included in this policy are infractions such as cheating, plagiarism, collusion, and fabrication/falsification of records. Pi Kappa Delta members are subject to the Bowling Green State University Academic Integrity Policy as documented in the faculty and student handbooks.
405-Inclusiveness Policy
Committed to the goals of Title IX of the 1972 National Education Amendments, the members prohibit internally, and do not condone externally, any act of discrimination against any individual. This chapter affirms and supports the following policy statement endorsed by the National Council of Pi Kappa Delta:
“Pi Kappa Delta is dedicated to the principle of free expression and exploration of ideas in an atmosphere of civility and mutual respect. Related to this principle is the belief that all members of this community will have access to Pi Kappa Delta, and participation in its sponsored activities without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disabling condition, or sexual orientation.”
406-Substance Abuse Policy
This Local Chapter will follow and be supportive of the Bowling Green State University Substance Abuse Policies of alcohol and illegal drugs. If necessary, this chapter will support any recriminations if a member of the chapter breaks these policies. By two-thirds vote the organizational body may enact additional disciplinary action. The faculty sponsor will take additional actions if necessary.
ARTICLE V-DIVISIONS OF MEMBERSHIP
500-Lifetime Membership
Membership of this fraternity shall be considered and promoted as lifetime at the national level. It shall be of three classes, three orders, and three degrees.
501-Classes
The classes shall be: Active, Inactive, and Honorary.
501.1-Descriptions of Classes
The descriptions and eligibility of all classes are as follows:
501.1.1-Active Classification
Only college students, and faculty members actively engaged in the instruction of one or more of the activities coming under the Order of Undergraduate or the Order of Communication, or a coach of one or more forensic activities shall be eligible for admission as Active members or an Undergraduate Chapter. All those who have been Active members of an Undergraduate Chapter, but have transferred, graduated, retires or for some other legitimate reason have disassociated themselves with the chapter shall be eligible for Active membership in an Alumni Chapter provided they support its ideals and work.
501.1.2-Inactive Classification
The inactive class of this fraternity shall be composed of those Active members who are no longer attending the institution in which their Undergraduate Chapter is located, or who have been placed in the inactive class by action of the Undergraduate Chapter as provided in Paragraph 403, or, in the case of those who, though eligible for Alumni Chapter membership, are not interested in maintaining their Active status.
501.1.3-Honorary Classification
Persons who have interest in forensic activities and who have been nominated and elected by an Undergraduate chapter and approved by the National Council will be admitted as honorary members.
502-Transfer Recognition of Credits
All students and instructors who transfer from recognized institutions may receive full credit for their previous forensic work toward eligibility for membership or advancement in orders and degrees.
503-Multiple Honorary Membership
Members of other forensic organizations may become members of Pi Kappa Delta and members of Pi Kappa Delta are free to join other forensic organizations.
504-Orders
The orders shall be: Undergraduate, Instruction, and Active Alumni.
504.1-Description of Orders
The description and qualifications of each order is as follows:
504.1.1-Order of Undergraduate
Membership in the Order of Undergraduate will be for students participating in competitive speech and debate in recognized college competition.
504.1.2-Order of Instruction
The Order of Instruction is open to all communication educators and follow the same degree structure as listed in 505. An instructor is eligible to obtain degrees as stated in the National Constitution when they have had 5 students, or more obtain a degree level.
504.1.3-Order of Active Alumni
Membership in the Order of Active Alumni will be for alumni continuing to contribute to the betterment of their program and the forensic activity. Furthermore, one must have been an active member of an undergraduate chapter.
505-Degrees
The degrees shall be: Proficiency, Special Distinction, and Highest Distinction.
505.1-Description of Degrees
The description and qualifications of each degree are as follows:
505.1.1-Degree of Proficiency
The degree of proficiency is for the individual members. This constitutes the initial degree of membership.
505.1.2-Degree of Special Distinction
The degree of special distinction is for those members who have at least a 3.0 gpa, participated in communication events for at least two academic years and have demonstrated excellence in communication skills in either competitive and community service or achieved a superior rating at the national tournament.
505.1.3-Degree of Highest Distinction
The degree of highest distinction is for those members who have at least a 3.5 gpa, participated in communication events for at least two academic years and have demonstrated a superior command of communication skills in either competitive or community service projects.
ARTICLE VI-OFFICIAL INSIGNIA
600-Badge
The official badge of Pi Kappa Delta shall be a gold key and shall make use of the symbols of the triangle and gavel as well as parameters established by the National Council.
601-Symbol
The key shall denote degree, class and distinction through a series of gems set in the eye of the key. The National Council Ritual Guidelines establish the gems and use of this symbol.
601.1-Misuse of Badge
The Pi Kappa Delta gold key shall not be used as any form of jewelry. Misuse of the badge is disrespect to the Honorary Fraternity. Doing so shall be grounds for expulsion from membership.
602-Honors Chords
Pi Kappa Delta members of an active status at the time of graduation will receive silver and red honors chords recognizing their involvement in the national honorary.
ARTICLE VII- PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
700-Parliamentary Procedure Requirement
The latest edition of the Robert’s Rules of Order shall be the authority in parliamentary procedure not covered by specific provisions of this or the National Constitution.
701-Voting Procedures
Two-thirds of the Pi Kappa Delta members must be present, to constitute a quorum and hold a vote on any issue except the case of amendments. In case of a tie, the faculty sponsor will serve as the deciding vote. The sponsor does have the right to revoke any vote made by this Local Chapter in the case of its breaking Bowling Green State University policies and/or the National Pi Kappa Delta Chapter policies.
701.1-Disagreement of Vote
If the Local Chapter does not agree to the revoking of a decision by the sponsor of the fraternity, this chapter by a unanimous vote may override the sponsor’s decision.
ARTICLE VIII-AMENDMENTS
800-Amendments
This Local Chapter will vote on amendments following the procedures of Robert’s Rules of Order.
801-Voting With Regard To Constitutional Amendments
Active members of the chapter may enact amendments to this constitution with an affirmative vote of two-thirds. In case of a tie, the sponsor and/or the Director of Forensics will be able to break the tie. If the sponsor does not approve the amendment, the sponsor has the power to table the amendment until further discussion may occur.
ARTICLE IX-PURPOSE AND DISSOLUTION STATEMENT
900-Educational Purpose
Pi Kappa Delta is organized exclusively for educational purposes including such purposes as making of distribution to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code. The Ohio Eta Chapter qualifies under these purposes and is also under the Bowling Green State University exempt policy.
901-Embezzlement Policy
No part of the net earnings of Pi Kappa Delta shall inhere to benefit or be distributed to its members, officers, or other private persons. Pi Kappa Delta shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered and to make payments and distributions in the furtherance of the purposes of the Local Chapter.
902-Neutrality Policy
No substantial part of the activities of the chapter shall be the carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation and Pi Kappa Delta shall not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other provisions of these sections, Pi Kappa Delta shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on by an association exempt from federal income tax under section 501-(c) (3) of the International Revenue Code, or any future federal tax code.
ARTICLE X-AUTHORIZATION
1000-Statement of Constitutional Adoption
We ascribe this constitution on this the 24rd day of the month of July in the year 2016. This constitution hereby replaces all previous constitutions. This document serves as the governing philosophy for this organization in both letter and spirit. By the following signatures we hereby establish and endorse this constitutional document.
Signed copy in official organizational archives.
Bowling Green, Ohio 43403
Adopted 1, September 2008
Amended 24, July 2016
ARTICLE I - NAME
100-Organizational Name
The name of this Forensic Honorary Organization shall be “Pi Kappa Delta”, the initial letters of the Greek phrase Peitho Kale Dikia, signifying “the art of persuasion, beautiful and just”. The name shall be written thus: PKD on all insignia of the fraternity. This chapter is established as the Ohio, Eta Chapter. The Greek insignia shall be as follows: ΠΚΔ.
ARTICLE II - PURPOSE
200-Purpose Statement
Pi Kappa Delta is a national honorary organization consisting of educators, students and alumni committed to encouraging the education of articulate citizens through a three part focus: the commitment to and promotion of ethical, humane and inclusive communication and educational practices; the commitment to and promotion of professional development of forensics educators; and the commitment to and promotion of comprehensive forensics programs.
ARTICLE III-ORGANIZATION
300-Divisions
Pi Kappa Delta shall be composed of three divisions: the Local Chapter, the Province Organization, and the National Organization. (This constitution applies only to the Local Chapter.)
301-Local Chapter
This chapter is considered to be an active chapter if the annual dues are paid each academic year and new members are enrolled. If this chapter does not meet the criteria for three consecutive years, it will be listed as an inactive chapter with the national organization. Inactive chapters may not participate in Pi Kappa Delta sponsored events. To become active again, the chapter must pay the current year’s dues, initiate new members, and pay a reactivation fee. Local Chapters consist of two kinds: Undergraduate and Alumni. This chapter is established as an “Undergraduate Chapter”.
301.1-Local Undergraduate Chapter
This Local Undergraduate Chapter is established in a recognized and regionally accredited college, which offers course work beyond the associate of arts degree. This chapter is sponsored through the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Media & Communication, Department of Communication at Bowling Green State University. This organization was chartered and recognized by Bowling Green State University and the National Office of Pi Kappa Delta on 23, May, 1930, making it one of the oldest student organizations at Bowling Green State University. Charters are activated by a written letter of support by the president of the university.
301.2-Constitutional Regulation
This Local Chapter shall have full charge of all its activities within the limits of the Pi Kappa Delta National Constitution. A copy of this constitution shall be regularly submitted to the Bowling Green State University Office of Campus Activities along with the official student organization recognition and report paperwork.
302.1-New Membership
New membership will be enlisted by December 1 of each academic year. Membership is open to all Bowling Green State University students. New membership will be reported to the National Secretary-Treasurer by the Chapter Vice President. Failure to do so may subject the Local Chapter to probation or on an inactive status.
302.2-Chapter Inactive Status
If the Local Chapter membership falls below 5 active members for two consecutive years, it will be classified as an inactive chapter and therefore, have none of the rights specified of the active chapters specified in the National Constitution. The chapter may be returned to active status by bringing the membership up to the constitutional requirements and by paying current chapter dues. Procedures are subject to the National Council. In the event of falling under membership standard, the faculty sponsor may wave the membership application and induction to appoint members as long as reasonable expectations or circumstances prevail.
302.3-National Vote
The Local Chapter has one vote in the affairs of the Providence Organization and the National Organization. This vote may be delegated to a representative in case of conventions and shall be a majority vote of a chapter’s active members in case of referendum. In the event of non-participation by members, the faculty sponsor shall hold the responsibility of casting official votes on behalf of the chapter.
302.4-Initiation Fee
The National Council sets the mandatory initiation fee for members of all divisions of membership, payable upon application, with majority approval by the National Convention. At the time of thes constitutional revision, the national membership fee is $50 for a lifetime membership.
302.5-Chapter Member Fees
This chapter has established an annual membership fee of $10, payable to the chapter Treasurer during the fall academic term. Membership fees are deposited within the chapter’s budget account for use as deemed appropriate by a vote of the membership.
303-Election & Retention of Officers
The Local Chapter will elect officers at least once each year during the spring term. The following offices must be filled: President, Vice President, Secretary, Historian/Engagement Officer and Treasurer. A non-elected position of Travel Coordinator must be filled by appointment and elected officers may fill the duties of this position. In the event of insufficient candidates, the chapter may vote to merge the office of Secretary with that of Treasurer until suitable candidates are available. The Local Chapter will follow Robert’s Rules of Order in the election process. All officers must be active members either engaged in competitive forensics or communication service events during the terms of service. A cumulative 2.5 grade point average must be upheld by all officers in compliance with Office of Campus Activities policy. An officer can be removed from office should they fall below active status, fail to attend meetings, fail to support the organization or be deemed unworthy by a 2/3 vote of the active membership. It is the President's responsibility to coordinate chapter elections, including the creation of a written or electronic ballot. In the event that the chapter President is unavailable or is running for office him/herself, this duty, refers to the faculty sponsor. It is the faculty sponsor's responsibility to tally all ballots and announce the results of the election.
303.1-Duties of Officers
The duties of the officers will be as follows:
303.1.1-President
The duties of President will include, but shall not be limited to, organizing and presiding over all meetings and other Pi Kappa Delta matters. The President will maintain open communication with the faculty sponsor. The President will also follow all rules and guidelines set for organizations by Bowling Green State University. The President further serves as liaison and representative on behalf of the organization and is bound by its constitution. Special coordination must take place between Pi Kappa Delta and the BGSU Falcon Forensics and Debate Team/Director of Forensics and Debate. Specific duties include:
- Required to attend a mandatory officer training seminar during the fall term sponsored through the Office of Campus Activities
- Presides at all meetings of the organization
- Calls and schedules special meetings of the organization
- Prepares and files any report required (work with Treasurer for funding documents)
- Appoints committee chairs and membership
- Attends BGSU recognized student organization meetings
- Represents organization at all BGSU, PKD Provincial and National events and community functions
- Maintains contact with organization faculty advisor on a weekly basis and assures open invitation to all chapter meetings
- Maintains contact with national organization
- Remains fair and impartial during organization decision-making processes (not allowed to vote in PKD meeting decisions, with the exception of tie breaking – noted exception: officer elections)
- Creates and distributes agendas for each meeting of the organization 1 week in advance of the meeting with the assistance of the chapter Secretary
- Makes all reservations for rooms and activities at the University (Including Campus Fest, Presidents Day Open-House and Preview Day, Media and Communication Day, etc…)
- Coordinates officer elections, creates official written or electronic ballot.
- Swears in yearly officers and coordinates officer training and planning
303.1.2-Vice-President
The duties of Vice-President will include, but not be limited to, filling in for the President in presiding over the Pi Kappa Delta meetings if the President is not available. The Vice-President will also replace the President due to the position being revoked or if the President leaves the school for any reason. Beyond this role, the Vice-President is responsible for the following:
- Attends recognized student organization meetings
- Assumes the duties of the President as needed
- Serve as an ex-officio member of standing committees
- Oversees any tasks given to officers/team members
- Maintains contact with organization alumni
- Coordinates, schedules and maintains all social and fundraising events for the organization
- Coordinates new member eligibility records and manages initiation ceremony
- o The qualified members for induction will be notified at the minimum of two weeks before the induction
- o The qualified members will be instructed in any tasks which must be completed prior to initiation
- Responsible for upholding all BGSU and state Anti-Hazing Policies for the organization
- Collaborates on publicity for organization [work with Secretary and Historian]
303.1.3-Secretary
The duties of Secretary will include, but not limited to, keeping accurate minutes at all meetings of the Local Chapter and making the minutes available in a timely fashion. The Secretary-Treasurer will also be responsible in taking care of all correspondence of Pi Kappa Delta members as needed and is responsible for maintaining all communication with the greater community. The Secretary will take the responsibilities of a Historian position as needed by the Local Chapter, if unelected. Duties include:
- Attends recognized student organization meetings
- Keeps a record of all members of the organization
- Keeps a record of all activities of the organization for the purpose of official records
- Sends out pre-meeting times through email/Facebook/text messages/etc.at least 48 hours in advance of meetings when applicable
- Creates PKD meeting event on PKD Facebook page(two weeks in advance of the event)
- Maintains PKD minutes for each meeting and distributes it to each member in the organization as well as approved minutes to the faculty sponsor for posting to the web page
- Creates the publicity for the organization [works with Vice President and Historian]This includes, but is not limited to:
- o Posters, flyers, handbills, table tents and other promotions as needed
- o Event postings on the Campus Calendar and Zoom News.
- o Press releases in advance of all PKD events to the BGNews, BG24, WBGU & WFAL/Major events and tournament results to the Bowling Green Sentinal-Tribune, Toledo Blade and members local news sources
- Prepares organization’s calendar of events [works with President] for distribution prior to the start of each term
303.1.4-Treasurer
The Treasurer will have the responsibility to keep an accurate and available record of all moneys related to the Local Chapter and be responsible for the maintenance of said funds. Further, the Treasurer will work with the BGSU Office of Campus Activities (OCA) concerning issues of fundraising, budgeting, Treasurer Training and matters connected to the responsible financial well-being of the organization. Duties include:
- Attends recognized student organization meetings
- Keeps an accurate financial record of the organization to include copies of all receipts, OCA paperwork and related materials
- Pays organization bills
- Collects organization dues
- Prepares and submits financial reports through OCA
- Gives an update on financial report each meeting which shall include the current and predicted budget status
- Prepares an annual budget for SBC funding [With the President and Faculty Sponsor] in December-January of each years ahead of SBC deadlines, sets the SBC hearing date and presents a budget proposal
- Prepares all budget requests and reimbursements for funds through OCA
- Is familiar with accounting procedures and policies through OCA and attends required OCA training and orientation meetings and take required Treasurer testing
- Attends monthly budget coordinator meetings with OCA
- Is responsible for the coordination of ORGSYNC (Campus Activities Computer Interface)
- Files all community, city and state paperwork required for permits and events
- Coordinates and Chairs all Fund Raising initiatives [Collaborates with Vice-President]
- Attend monthly advising meetings with SBC (Student Budget Committee) and maintain positive and professional report with both SBC and OCA
303.1.5-Chapter Historian/Engagement Officer
The duties of the chapter Historian will include, but not be limited to, maintaining yearly team records such as scrapbook, photographs, and statistics. The duties will further include, but are not limited to, publicity and motivational activities. Examples include: news releases, recruitment, outreach activities, social media and community relations. [In collaboration with the Vice-President and Secretary]
The Chapter Historian/Engagement Officer must be a traveling member of the BGSU Falcon Forensics & Debate Team. Duties include:
- Attends recognized student organization meetings
- Take pictures at each tournament, fundraiser, social event and community service function to include both candid and group images as well as action shots in a quality appropriate for publication
- Keep records of pictures in one designated location (Team Dropbox) and to make this location accessible to active PKD and team members
- Assist with publicity [work with Vice President and Secretary ]in the creation and distribution of:
- o Press Releases
- o Campus Updates
- o Outreach activities
- o Recruitment
- Creates an end of the year Media Presentation (slideshow, movie, video, etc…) to show progress of the organization. This must be appropriate for the greater viewing community and posted to YouTube.
- Maintain lines of communication with alumni and greater community through Twitter, Radio, Television, Web Development, Facebook, Newsletters and other forms of media outreach. This includes development and maintenance of team social media. In the summer prior to the active season, the faculty sponsor shall provide login and password administrative access to chapter and Falcon Forensics and debate Team social media sites. Posts, videos and photos should be tasteful, respectful and in the best motivational interests of the organization. It is the responsibility of this position to build social media audience and change platforms and approaches as new social media platforms and technology emerge.
303.1.6-Travel Coordinator
The duties of the chapter Travel Coordinator (an appointed position) will include, but not be limited to, coordination of travel paperwork and events between the Pi Kappa Delta Chapter, Falcon Forensics and Debate Team and Office of campus Activities. Specific duties include:
The Chapter Travel coordinator must be a traveling member of the BGSU Falcon Forensics & Debate Team. Duties include:
- Coordinating all travel PKD activities under Office of Campus Activities Policy. Pi Kappa Delta, as a student organization falls under OCA policy; The Falcon Forensics and Debate Team as an Academic Co-Curricular Team does not. Therefore, OCA policies for travel must be followed for all PKD funded or partially funded activities
- Attend an annual OCA Travel Coordinator training session
- Collect liability waiver and insurance information per traveling member via ORGSYNC once per term or as needed for chapter travel
- Pick up and maintain a travel book coordinated with OCA and return at the completion of the event
- Per OCA policy, student organizations may not travel in 15 passenger vans, so alternate transportation must be arranged
- Communicate openly all travel expectations with chapter members
304-Sponsorship
This Local Chapter shall have a faculty sponsor who shall be recognized by the college and the Pi Kappa Delta national office. If at any time, the chapter does not have a sponsor, it shall be grounds for possible action resulting in the chapter being placed on probation or having its charter revoked. It shall be the responsibility of the faculty sponsor to serve as a sounding board and resource for all organizational decisions. The faculty sponsor must be a member of Pi Kappa Delta in good standing and has all the rights, privileges and expectations of said membership. At the chapter level, the sponsor has one vote on all chapter issues, but also has the power to “table” or “veto” any decision in order to maintain alignment with university expectations, values or standards. The faculty sponsor has the right to suspend the constitution in order to make decisions in the best interest of the chapter, should reasonable administrative decisions be ineffective or immediate action warranted.
304.1-Sponsor to keep chapter in Regulation to National Standards
The faculty sponsor of the Chapter shall be the responsible head of the undergraduate organization as far as its relation with the National Organization is concerned and he or she shall be responsible for the fulfillment of the requirements of the constitution and the regulation of the National Organization.
305-Meeting Dates
The Local Chapter shall meet a minimum of once per month or as deemed appropriate in order to meet organizational needs. The meeting schedule will be established the spring term prior to the active academic year and will note all regular meetings for the full academic year. Additional "special" meetings may be called by the PKD officers as long as sufficient notice is given to all active members so they may attend. "Officer Only" meetings are permitted.
ARTICLE IV-ADMISSION AND RETENTION OF MEMBERS
400-Eligibility
Membership in Local Chapter will be open to individuals in good academic standing at Bowling Green State University and who participate and show proficiency in competitive or non-competitive communication events and/or service projects. Individual chapters under the National Charter may define the appropriate level of participation and grade point for initial membership. This chapter defines participation according to the National Charter and requires a cumulative 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale for membership (the same average established by BGSU establishing good academic standing). Eligible students must have participated in a minimum of 3 forensics tournaments and/or Communication Service Projects. They must be selected by the active membership. Criteria used for this selection may include: Dedication, Reliability, Involvement, Academic Standards, Service and Understanding/Commitment to Pi Kappa Delta Values. Eligibility must be verified by the faculty sponsor.
401-Application for Membership
Upon determination of eligibility, the Chapter Vice-President shall send a formal written invitation to each potential member. Each candidate for membership in this honorary shall make note in writing/email to the Vice President of Pi Kappa Delta noting their desire to join. The Chapter shall then make an investigation of the eligibility of the candidate, and after two-thirds affirmative vote of the active members, shall recommend the applicant for membership. The applicant shall complete an online application form to the National Office together with the initiation fee as provided by the National Council as noted in 302.4. The National Secretary-Treasurer shall issue the membership card and pin. After completing the Chapter induction ritual, the applicant shall be given the standing for which he or she is eligible as a regular member with all privileges. A membership certificate will be issued upon request at cost.
402-Induction
The qualified members for induction will be notified at the minimum of two weeks before the induction. All those involved in the ceremony will be required to wear tournament dress. The inductees will be required to go through no pledging, however, they will be required to memorize the Greek Alphabet, in order to help foster an understanding of the importance of an honorary fraternity. They will be expected to present a portion of a forensics event or defense of a service project and will be subject to reasonable questions from a panel of active members. This chapter will follow the induction ceremony that can be found in the National Pi Kappa Delta Ritual Guidelines. The ceremony that will be followed can be found in the Bi-laws. The organization fully supports and adheres to BGSU and national anti-hazing policies.
403-Non-Payment Delinquency
The Local Chapter shall have the power to levy such assessments on its active members as it may choose. Nonpayment of assessment shall render the delinquent liable to transfer to inactive membership by a three-fourths affirmative vote of the active members of the chapter. Due notice must be given to the National Secretary-Treasurer as deemed appropriate.
403.1-Inactive Membership
Members are required to support the organization and to attend regularly scheduled meetings. Members are considered “active” as long as the criterion for eligibility is met. In addition, active members are expected to attend monthly meetings, support Pi Kappa Delta events, fundraisers, conventions and programs. Failure to attend required meetings may result in suspension from active status based on a 2/3 vote of the membership. Inactive members may participate in meetings, but forfeit their voting rights and the right to hold office until reactivated.
403.2-Readmission of Inactive Members
An inactive member (non-competing or communication service) may regain active status upon payment of all past dues and assessments that were unpaid during the period of inactive status. Then with the payment of the designated national reinstatement fee and completion of the reinstatement ceremony, the inactive member can regain active status with a two-thirds affirmative vote of the Local Chapter's active members is required. A two-thirds affirmative vote of the Local Chapter’s active members is required. Notice of the reinstatement shall be sent to the National Secretary-Treasurer.
404-Honor Policy
Members are to respect other members within this chapter, other forensic teams, chapters, and the National Constitution. Members will have respect for all materials used. Members are encouraged and expected to conduct themselves in conformance with the highest of standards in regard to academic honesty. Included in this policy are infractions such as cheating, plagiarism, collusion, and fabrication/falsification of records. Pi Kappa Delta members are subject to the Bowling Green State University Academic Integrity Policy as documented in the faculty and student handbooks.
405-Inclusiveness Policy
Committed to the goals of Title IX of the 1972 National Education Amendments, the members prohibit internally, and do not condone externally, any act of discrimination against any individual. This chapter affirms and supports the following policy statement endorsed by the National Council of Pi Kappa Delta:
“Pi Kappa Delta is dedicated to the principle of free expression and exploration of ideas in an atmosphere of civility and mutual respect. Related to this principle is the belief that all members of this community will have access to Pi Kappa Delta, and participation in its sponsored activities without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disabling condition, or sexual orientation.”
406-Substance Abuse Policy
This Local Chapter will follow and be supportive of the Bowling Green State University Substance Abuse Policies of alcohol and illegal drugs. If necessary, this chapter will support any recriminations if a member of the chapter breaks these policies. By two-thirds vote the organizational body may enact additional disciplinary action. The faculty sponsor will take additional actions if necessary.
ARTICLE V-DIVISIONS OF MEMBERSHIP
500-Lifetime Membership
Membership of this fraternity shall be considered and promoted as lifetime at the national level. It shall be of three classes, three orders, and three degrees.
501-Classes
The classes shall be: Active, Inactive, and Honorary.
501.1-Descriptions of Classes
The descriptions and eligibility of all classes are as follows:
501.1.1-Active Classification
Only college students, and faculty members actively engaged in the instruction of one or more of the activities coming under the Order of Undergraduate or the Order of Communication, or a coach of one or more forensic activities shall be eligible for admission as Active members or an Undergraduate Chapter. All those who have been Active members of an Undergraduate Chapter, but have transferred, graduated, retires or for some other legitimate reason have disassociated themselves with the chapter shall be eligible for Active membership in an Alumni Chapter provided they support its ideals and work.
501.1.2-Inactive Classification
The inactive class of this fraternity shall be composed of those Active members who are no longer attending the institution in which their Undergraduate Chapter is located, or who have been placed in the inactive class by action of the Undergraduate Chapter as provided in Paragraph 403, or, in the case of those who, though eligible for Alumni Chapter membership, are not interested in maintaining their Active status.
501.1.3-Honorary Classification
Persons who have interest in forensic activities and who have been nominated and elected by an Undergraduate chapter and approved by the National Council will be admitted as honorary members.
502-Transfer Recognition of Credits
All students and instructors who transfer from recognized institutions may receive full credit for their previous forensic work toward eligibility for membership or advancement in orders and degrees.
503-Multiple Honorary Membership
Members of other forensic organizations may become members of Pi Kappa Delta and members of Pi Kappa Delta are free to join other forensic organizations.
504-Orders
The orders shall be: Undergraduate, Instruction, and Active Alumni.
504.1-Description of Orders
The description and qualifications of each order is as follows:
504.1.1-Order of Undergraduate
Membership in the Order of Undergraduate will be for students participating in competitive speech and debate in recognized college competition.
504.1.2-Order of Instruction
The Order of Instruction is open to all communication educators and follow the same degree structure as listed in 505. An instructor is eligible to obtain degrees as stated in the National Constitution when they have had 5 students, or more obtain a degree level.
504.1.3-Order of Active Alumni
Membership in the Order of Active Alumni will be for alumni continuing to contribute to the betterment of their program and the forensic activity. Furthermore, one must have been an active member of an undergraduate chapter.
505-Degrees
The degrees shall be: Proficiency, Special Distinction, and Highest Distinction.
505.1-Description of Degrees
The description and qualifications of each degree are as follows:
505.1.1-Degree of Proficiency
The degree of proficiency is for the individual members. This constitutes the initial degree of membership.
505.1.2-Degree of Special Distinction
The degree of special distinction is for those members who have at least a 3.0 gpa, participated in communication events for at least two academic years and have demonstrated excellence in communication skills in either competitive and community service or achieved a superior rating at the national tournament.
505.1.3-Degree of Highest Distinction
The degree of highest distinction is for those members who have at least a 3.5 gpa, participated in communication events for at least two academic years and have demonstrated a superior command of communication skills in either competitive or community service projects.
ARTICLE VI-OFFICIAL INSIGNIA
600-Badge
The official badge of Pi Kappa Delta shall be a gold key and shall make use of the symbols of the triangle and gavel as well as parameters established by the National Council.
601-Symbol
The key shall denote degree, class and distinction through a series of gems set in the eye of the key. The National Council Ritual Guidelines establish the gems and use of this symbol.
601.1-Misuse of Badge
The Pi Kappa Delta gold key shall not be used as any form of jewelry. Misuse of the badge is disrespect to the Honorary Fraternity. Doing so shall be grounds for expulsion from membership.
602-Honors Chords
Pi Kappa Delta members of an active status at the time of graduation will receive silver and red honors chords recognizing their involvement in the national honorary.
ARTICLE VII- PARLIAMENTARY AUTHORITY
700-Parliamentary Procedure Requirement
The latest edition of the Robert’s Rules of Order shall be the authority in parliamentary procedure not covered by specific provisions of this or the National Constitution.
701-Voting Procedures
Two-thirds of the Pi Kappa Delta members must be present, to constitute a quorum and hold a vote on any issue except the case of amendments. In case of a tie, the faculty sponsor will serve as the deciding vote. The sponsor does have the right to revoke any vote made by this Local Chapter in the case of its breaking Bowling Green State University policies and/or the National Pi Kappa Delta Chapter policies.
701.1-Disagreement of Vote
If the Local Chapter does not agree to the revoking of a decision by the sponsor of the fraternity, this chapter by a unanimous vote may override the sponsor’s decision.
ARTICLE VIII-AMENDMENTS
800-Amendments
This Local Chapter will vote on amendments following the procedures of Robert’s Rules of Order.
801-Voting With Regard To Constitutional Amendments
Active members of the chapter may enact amendments to this constitution with an affirmative vote of two-thirds. In case of a tie, the sponsor and/or the Director of Forensics will be able to break the tie. If the sponsor does not approve the amendment, the sponsor has the power to table the amendment until further discussion may occur.
ARTICLE IX-PURPOSE AND DISSOLUTION STATEMENT
900-Educational Purpose
Pi Kappa Delta is organized exclusively for educational purposes including such purposes as making of distribution to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code. The Ohio Eta Chapter qualifies under these purposes and is also under the Bowling Green State University exempt policy.
901-Embezzlement Policy
No part of the net earnings of Pi Kappa Delta shall inhere to benefit or be distributed to its members, officers, or other private persons. Pi Kappa Delta shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered and to make payments and distributions in the furtherance of the purposes of the Local Chapter.
902-Neutrality Policy
No substantial part of the activities of the chapter shall be the carrying on of propaganda or otherwise attempting to influence legislation and Pi Kappa Delta shall not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other provisions of these sections, Pi Kappa Delta shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on by an association exempt from federal income tax under section 501-(c) (3) of the International Revenue Code, or any future federal tax code.
ARTICLE X-AUTHORIZATION
1000-Statement of Constitutional Adoption
We ascribe this constitution on this the 24rd day of the month of July in the year 2016. This constitution hereby replaces all previous constitutions. This document serves as the governing philosophy for this organization in both letter and spirit. By the following signatures we hereby establish and endorse this constitutional document.
Signed copy in official organizational archives.
