NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws 1NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW - BLACK LAW STUDENTS ASSOCIATION, KEMET CHAPTER 400 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115 CONSTITUTION Article I. Name and Affiliation (a) Name. This organization shall be known as the NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW BLACK LAW STUDENTS ASSOCIATION, KEMET CHAPTER (hereinafter referred to as the “Association” or “NUSL-BLSA”). Kemet is an ancient Egyptian word that means “black people.” (b) Affiliation. This organization shall be affiliated with National Black Law Student Association and Northeastern Regional Black Law Student Association, upon the payment of annual dues to the aforementioned organizations, unless a two-third majority of this association votes to end the affiliation.
ARTICLE II. Purpose (a) National Purpose. The purpose of this Association adheres to the following purposes of the National BLSA Constitution: (1) To articulate and promote the professional needs and goals of Black Law Students, including recruitment and retention of black law students, (2) To foster and encourage professional competence, (3) To focus on the relationship of the Black Law Student and the Black Attorney to the American legal structure, (4) to instill in the Black Attorney and Law Student a greater awareness of and commitment to the needs of the Black community, (5) to influence the legal community to bring about meaningful change to meet the needs of the Black community, (6) to adopt and implement a policy of economic independence, (7) to encourage Black Law Students to pursue careers in the judiciary, and (8) to do all things necessary and appropriate to accomplish these purposes. (b) Chapter Purpose. The Kemet Chapter adheres to the following additional purposes: It is the mission of the Kemet Chapter to serve the NUSL and legal community by increasing educational, racial and cultural diversity of students of African descent. In order to achieve this mission, members are encouraged to help foster recruitment as a means to remedy the small number of students of African descent and help with the retention of other members by supporting achievement of academic success in a majority Caucasian academic institution, experience social camaraderie and preserve the rich cultural history of those members who came before us especially since there is such a small number of us and losing a say if we integrate. The goals the Kemet Chapter strives to achieve are based on the following purposes: (1) To articulate and promote the professional needs and goals of students of African descent, including recruitment and retention of students of African descent, (2) to foster and encourage professional competence, (3) to focus on the relationship of students of African descent and attorneys of African descent to the American legal structure, (4) to instill in attorneys of African descent and students of African descent a greater awareness of and commitment to the needs of the African-American and African Diaspora community, (5) to influence the legal community to bring about meaningful change to meet the needs of the AfricanAmerican and African Diaspora community, (6) to adopt and implement a policy of economic independence,
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws (7) to encourage students of African descent to pursue careers in the judiciary, (8) to promote the hiring and retention of faculty and staff of African descent, (9) to provide and promote opportunities for students of African descent to establish relationships within the greater legal community, and (10) to do all things necessary and appropriate to accomplish these purposes. In order to achieve these objectives, the Kemet Chapter must maintain a safe-space and prevent the silencing of the voice and vote of students of African descent that is inevitable with an integrated body. With this mission, the Kemet Chapter attempts to aid students of African descent to achieve success and, in other ways, to prepare them to make choices over their lifetime in achieving their full potential in the legal profession. All members must adhere to the purposes set out in Article II of this Constitution’s Bylaws.
ARTICLE III. Membership (a) Eligibility for Membership: General Membership may consist of law students of African descent matriculated at Northeastern University School of Law. (b) Classification of Membership: (1) General Membership: General membership shall consist of any student of African descent matriculated at Northeastern University School of Law who desires membership in the Association and to adhere to the purpose set out in Article II of this Constitution and Bylaws. (2) Active Membership: Active membership of this Association shall consist of any general member that has fulfilled the payment of his/her dues obligations for that fiscal year. Active membership status entitles him/her to all rights and privileges of this Association defined herein. (3) Inactive Membership: Inactive membership shall consist of any general member otherwise eligible for membership who has failed to attend the majority of Association events for the previous academic quarter or semester where the member was in school. (c) Rights of Membership: Only general members of this association shall have the right to hold office, to vote, and to compete in the Fredrick Douglass Moot Court Competition and other National Black Law Student (NBLSA)sponsored events. Honorary Members may participate in non-voting activities of the Association except as otherwise specified by the Executive Board. (d) Duties of Membership: Regular participation in the activities of this Association is incumbent upon all members. (e) Payment of Dues: In order to become an active member, as defined in Article III, Section (b)(3), each general member shall remit payment of dues and participate regularly in Association-sponsored events. The amount of the dues required and the rules governing payment are to be determined according to the procedure discussed in Article VIII, Section (a)(1).
ARTICLE IV. Officers (a) Eligibility of Officers: Persons eligible to hold an office of this Association (hereinafter referred to as the “Officers”) of this Association must remain active members of the Association for an entire term. The word, “term, for the purposes of this Constitution, is defined in Section (d) of this Article. (b) Classification of Officers: The Officers of this Association shall be a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson, a FirstYear Co-Chairperson, a Secretary, a Treasurer, a Webmaster, a Director of External Affairs, a Director of Academic Affairs, a Director of Community Service, a Law School Admissions Liaison, a Director of Social Affairs, and any officers deemed necessary by the Executive Board. These Officers shall perform duties prescribed by these Bylaws and by the constitutional and bylaw authority adopted by this Association. (c) Election of Officers: Any active members shall be eligible for elected office. The annual election of officers
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws shall take place in the Spring of the academic year or at any time specified by the Board as needed to fill vacant offices. The First-Year Co-Chairperson., Director of External Affairs, and Law School Admissions Liaison shall be elected during the second general body meeting in the Fall quarter and no later than October 1 st. All officers shall be elected by any general members. (d) Terms of Office: The Officers shall hold office during the quarters in which they attend classes. The position of First-Year Co-Chairperson shall be filled by October 1st and remain filled until Spring elections. All other terms of office shall commence on the first day of the Summer quarter and terminate on the last day of the Spring quarter. In the extended absence of any officer, his/her responsibilities shall be fulfilled by an alternate officer as deemed necessary by the Board and as approved by the General Assembly.
ARTICLE V. Executive Board (a) Composition: Certain officers of the Association shall be designated the Executive Board (Board). The E-Board shall be compreised of the following members: Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, First-Year Co-Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer. (b) Powers of the Executive Board: The Board shall have a general power to administer any and all programs, business projects, and matters pertaining to or concerning the Association. (1) The Board shall have the power to create such staff positions and such committees as it deems necessary to carry out the business of the Association. Such staff persons and shall be appointed by the Chairperson from the active membership subject to the approval of the Board. Appointed members are considered Board members to the extent that they may have the power to make motions at Board meetings, if recognized, but are not considered Board members for the purpose of establishing quorum or voting on any programs, business projects or matters of the Association. (2) Any decision of the Board shall be made at a duly called meeting at which there is a quorum. (3) Pursuant to Article XI of this Constitution, the Board is empowered to discipline any officer or member who is negligent in the discharge of his or her duties to the Association. (c) Board Approval: Board approval is defined as an affirmative simple majority vote by the Executive Board.
ARTICLE VI. Committees (a) Committees shall be appointed by the Chairperson as the Board or the Association shall from time to time deem necessary to carry on the work of the Association. Such appointments shall be subject to the approval of the board. (b) The Board may delegate such appointive powers as are necessary to facilitate the organization and operation of a committee.
ARTICLE VII. Meetings (a) Agenda: The Chairperson shall designate the meeting agenda for Executive Board meetings. In the Chairperson’s absence, the Vice-Chairperson or the First-Year Co-Chairperson shall designate an agenda. The agenda shall be disbursed to the Executive Board through email no later than 24 hours before the scheduled meeting. This will give any persons on the Executive Board an opportunity to include anything not on the agenda. In the Chairperson’s absence, the Vice-Chairperson or the First-Year Co-Chairperson shall designate an agenda. The Executive Board shall designate the General Assembly meeting agenda. Any member may contact the Chairperson or Executive Board for inclusion on any of the aforementioned agendas. (b) Executive Board Meetings: There shall be no fewer than two (2) board meetings per academic quarter. All officers are required to attend every Board meeting. All Executive Board meetings shall be open, and any member may attend.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws (c) General Assembly Meetings: There shall be no fewer than two (2) general assembly meetings per quarter. Meetings will generally be held every other week during the Law School’s designated Activities Period. (d) Special Meetings: May be called at anytime by the Chairperson whenever necessary and/or called upon at the written request of a majority of General Body members. In the absence of the Chairperson, the Vice-Chairperson or the First-Year Co-Chairperson shall be able to hold special meetings. Notification of special meetings shall be given to the General Body at 48 hours before the meeting is to be held. (de) Standing Committee: Meetings for each standing committee shall be held as deemed necessary and at the discretion of the committee members. The Committee Chairperson shall be responsible for documenting and reporting to the General Assembly with respect to the Committee’s progress. The Committee Chairperson shall collect meeting minutes and ensure they are within the Secretary’s possession prior to the end of the term. (ef) Documentation: The Secretary shall take minutes at each meeting of the Executive Board and General Assembly. At a minimum, the minutes shall include a discussion of each topic listed on the meeting Agenda. In the Secretary’s absence, the Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, or 1L Co-Chairperson shall designate a note taker to transcribe the meeting minutes.
ARTICLE VIII. Financial Affairs (a) Dues: All members shall pay dues. The Board shall determine the amount of dues on an annual basis. The Treasurer shall collect dues by September 30th and deposit them into an interest bearing account. (1) Exception to Payment of Dues: In the event that a member is unable to meet the dues requirement, due to extenuating financial circumstances, that member may petition the Board for waiver or modification of dues payment. The member shall submit a written explanation and an alternative proposal for waiver or modification of said dues to the Secretary of the Association, who shall then evaluate the merits of the proposal and present a report at the following Board meeting. At that meeting, the Board shall determine by a two-thirds vote whether to accept, reject or modify the member’s petition. During the interim between filing of the petition and evaluation by the Board, the member is to have active status. Waiver of modification of the dues payment requirement by the Board, and compliance therewith, will satisfy the dues payment for that fiscal year. (b) Appropriation of Funds: This Association shall be financed primarily by dues, fund-raising activities, donations, and NUSL grants. The Executive Board shall appropriate funds to be disbursed byT the Treasure shall be responsible for appropriating and disbursing fundsr. The Board Treasurer may appropriate funds up to the amount of two hundred dollars or ten percent of the association’s NUSL operating budget, established by the Office for Academic and Student Affairs of NUSL. Before the funds are appropriated to any committee or event, the Chairperson of that committee must provide a detailed budget to the Treasurer, which itemizes expenses. Any appropriation of funds more than two hundred dollars must be approved by a majority of the active membership. (c) Distribution of Funds: The Treasurer shall distribute funds which have been appropriated by the Treasurer by the board or general assembly pursuant to Section 2 of this article, if funds are available. (d) Financial Report: A final full disclosure of all funds received and disbursed within any given fiscal year, and a report of money within any financial account of the association shall be disseminated by the Treasurer to the Board at every regularly scheduled Executive Board meeting. The Faculty Advisor shall also receive quarterly financial reports from the Treasurer. (e) Final Report: A final report of all the annual financial affairs shall be made by the Board to the Assembly at the final General assembly meeting of the year. (f) Fiscal Year: The fiscal year of the Association shall commence at the beginning of the Fall quarter and terminate at the end of the following Summer quarter.
ARTICLE IX. Voting (a) Appointment: Each general member as specified by the preceding articles of this constitution shall have the right to submit one vote or refrain from voting. The voting rights of the member shall be equal and no member shall
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws have more than one vote. (b) Proxy: Each member giving its proxy must comply with the following provisions: (1) The member must be a general member; and (2) The member must present a written or electronic proxy to be certified by the Secretary.
ARTICLE X. Disciplinary Proceedings (a) Procedure: The Association is empowered to make and enforce its own rules and to require that its members and officers refrain from conduct injurious to the Association or its purposes. The Board shall have the power to censure its members, and shall implement and enforce any additional disciplinary measures as appropriate. Censure may entail the dissemination by the Board of an intra-Association or public announcement disassociating the Association with the conduct of the member(s) in question. Censure shall be in order upon a two-thirds vote of the Board. (b) Review: All disciplinary measures shall be reported by the Board to the General Assembly at consequent meeting and are thereupon subject to review by the General Assembly.
ARTICLE XI. Rules of Order (a) Parliamentary Authority: The Association is empowered to establish its rules of order through the adoption of some form of parliamentary authority.
ARTICLE XII. Projects (a) Mandatory Projects: The Final General Assembly Meeting; the First-Year Event, the Third-Year Event; FirstYear review sessions; two community service events; Association attendance at the regional meetings and regional conventions; attendance at the National Convention when geographically possible; the Denise Carty-Benia Award; and the Spirit of Valerie-Gordon Book Award shall be mandatory events. (b) Optional Projects: Optional events, which may include a Potluck, A Day In the Life of A Law Student, and welcome-back events, may be scheduled by the Board throughout the academic year.
ARTICLE XIII. Constitutional Amendments (a) Adoption: The Constitution and Bylaws of the Association shall be adopted by a simple majority vote of the Assembly. (b) Amendments: Amendments to the National Constitution or Bylaws shall be passed according to the rules below: (1) Constitutional Amendments: Any changes to this Constitution shall be passed at the final General Assembly Meeting upon receiving a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the General Assembly. (2) Bylaws Amendments: Any changes to the Bylaws shall be passed at the final General Assembly Meeting upon receiving a simple majority vote of the General Assembly. (c) Effective Date: Constitutional and Bylaw Amendments to the NUSL-BLSA Constitution shall be ratified and take effect immediately upon adoption by a simple majority vote of the General Assembly at the final General Assembly Meeting, except where an alternative date is specified therein.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws BYLAWS ARTICLE I. Officers (a) Chairperson: The Chairperson of this Association shall be a second or third year law student. The Chairperson’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Exercising general authority over the business and activities of this Association; (2) Presiding over Executive Board meetings in the Fall and Spring Academic Quarters; (3) Presiding over the General Assembly in the Fall and Spring Academic Quarters; (4) Serving as the National Black Law Student Association representative; (5) Overseeing the implementation of the initiatives of all standing and appointed committees; (6) Serving as a liaison between the Kemet Chapter and the Faculty Advisor; and (7) Performing such other functions and exercising such further duties as the Board or the General Assembly may assign. (b) Vice-Chairperson: The Vice-Chairperson of this Association shall be a second year law student. The ViceChairperson’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Presiding over General Assembly meetings in the Winter and Summer Academic Quarters; (2) Presiding over Executive Board meetings in the Winter and Summer Academic Quarters; (3) Serving as the Northeast Region Black Law Student Association representative; (4) Serving as a liaison between the Kemet Chapter and the Faculty Advisor; and (5) Performing such other functions and exercising such further duties as the Board or the General Assembly may assign. (c) First Year (1L) Co-Chairperson: The First Year Co-Chairperson shall be a first year law student. The 1L CoChairperson’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Presiding over General Assembly meetings in the absence of the Chairperson or ViceChairperson; (2) Presiding over Executive Board meetings in the absence of the Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson; (3) Serving as a liaison between the Kemet Chapter and the Faculty Advisor; and (4) Performing such other functions and exercising such further duties as the Board or the General Assembly may assign. d) Secretary: The Secretary of this association shall be a second or third year law student. The Secretary’s primary responsibilities include: (1) Maintaining and distributing the minutes, which serve as the Chapter’s historical record and the agenda for all meetings of the Board and the General Assembly and ensuring that said minutes accurately chronicle the Chapter’s process and events, convey an account of the Board’s administrative decision-making processes, and are written so as to reflect a direct correlation to the agenda for each meeting; (2) Maintaining a current BLSA Directory, including the contact information for all current Chapter members; (3) Maintaining a current BLSA Alumni Directory, including the contact information for all prior Chapter members; (4) Evaluating, with the Treasurer, alternative dues petitions pursuant to Article VIII, Section 1 of the Constitution; (5) Distributing a copy of the Constitution and Bylaws for this Association to; (A) Each Board member at the first Board meeting of the Fall Academic Quarter, (B) Each member at the first General Assembly Meeting; and (C) If requested, each chapter registered at the National Convention (6) Archiving the Annual Report of Chapter activities, which shall be labeled according the Academic Year, and remain in the BLSA office for archival purposes, and shall include: (A) An assessment of all initiatives and programs conducted by the association,
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws (B) A copy of all the relative minutes of Executive Board, General Assembly, and all standing and appointed committee meetings, (C) A copy of the financial report prepared by the Treasurer for the relative fiscal year, and (D) A statement of future or anticipated activities for the following year; and (7) Performing such other functions and exercising such further duties as the Board or the General Assembly may assign. (e) Treasurer: The Treasurer of this Association shall be a second or third year student. The Treasurer’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Handling all funds of this Association and ensuring that they are deposited in such facility, and in such manner, as the Board may designate; (2) Assuring that entries are regularly made in the financial records, accounting for all funds received and disbursed by this Association; (3) Making financial reports to the Board at each meeting and upon request by any Executive Board member; (4) Initiating all checks and monies issued on behalf of this association or by this Association pursuant to Article VIII, Section 2 of the Constitution; (5) Evaluating, with the Secretary, alternative dues petitions pursuant to Article VIII, Section 1 of the Constitution; and (6) Submitting an Association Budget Request to Northeastern University School of Law for the year. The request shall include: (A) The total amount of funding requested by the Association; (B) A detailed account of all anticipated expenses based on future program needs, history, and accounting for emergencies; (7) Submitting an Association Budget to the Executive Board for the year at the first regularly scheduled Board meeting, to include: (1) a statement of accounts, (2) a statement of unpaid bills with explanation, (3) statement of transfers between accounts, (4) a statement of income, (5) a detailed account of how all funds were used, and (6) a detailed account of all anticipated expenses based on future program needs, history, and accounting for emergencies; (8) Submitting a Final Report for archival purposes; and (9) Performing such other functions and exercising such further duties as the Board or the General Assembly may assign. (f) Webmaster: The Webmaster of this Association shall be a second or third year law student. The primary responsibilities of this position shall include: (1) The maintenance of the organization’s webpage which is accessible through the Law School’s website. (A) Maintenance includes the updating of any information on the webpage. (B) Managing the amount of information that is on the website and when necessary creating new links or deleting unnecessary information. (C) Verifying contact information that is to be placed on the website and ensuring that the necessary permission is received for any links that are added to the site. (D) Keeping a calendar of events and meetings, posted and updated, to inform members of the activities the organization is holding. (2) Working with the framework of the webpage to find ways to increase the user friendliness of the site. (3) Notifying the Executive board of any issues that arise concerning the maintenance and effectiveness of the website. (4) Accountability for the continuous updating and verification of all information on the website is the sole responsibility of the webmaster. The webmaster is responsible for posting each meetings minutes on the website no later than 2 days after the meeting has occurred. (5) As necessary, the Executive Board may modify the responsibilities of the webmaster upon notification. (6) Work closely with NUSL computer services as well as Northeastern University IS department in maintaining the website.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws
(g) Director of External Affairs: The Director of External Affairs shall be responsible for the direction and facilitation of the Chapter external affairs. The Director’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Working with the Admissions Liaison to increase enrollment in the Law School of students of African descent; (2) Collaborating with other BLSA chapters to create networking and social opportunities; and (3) Maintaining the Association’s web site. (h) Director of Academic Affairs: The Director of Academic Affairs shall be responsible for the direction and facilitation of chapter Academic Affairs. The Director’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Developing and maintaining a first-year mentoring program, whereby each first year BLSA student is matched with an upper-level law student for the purpose of academic and social mentorship; (2) Organizing first-year review sessions; (3) Developing and maintain academic resources to be utilized by members of NUSL-BLSA; and (4) Coordinating meetings between first-year law students and professors in order to foster relationshipbuilding. (i) Director of Community Service: The Director of Community Service shall work to ensure NUSL-BLSA’s commitment to serving the Northeastern University and the constituents of the surrounding communities. The Director’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Planning and coordinating at least two community service events; (2) Planning and coordinating the Spirit of Valerie Gordon Book Award in accordance with Appendix A of the Association’s bylaws; (3) Planning and coordinating the Denise Carty-Benia Award in accordance with Appendix B of the Association’s bylaws; and (4) Maintaining the relationships and initiatives of the Northeastern University and the constituents of the surrounding communities. (j) Law School Admissions Liaison: The Law School Admissions Liaison shall serve on the Law School Admissions Committee. The Liaison’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Monitoring the Northeastern University School of Law Office of Admission’s minority recruitment efforts and reporting such efforts to the General Assembly; (2) Participating in all Admissions Committee activities as requested by the Law School Admissions Staff, (3) Organizing other recruitment efforts to increase enrollment in the Law School of students of African descent. (k) Director of Social Affairs: The Director of Social Affairs shall be responsible for the facilitation of the Chapter social events. The Director’s primary responsibilities shall include: (1) Planning and coordinating the First and Third Year events; (2) Planning and coordinating social events within the association; and (3) Managing and facilitating intra-association conflict with the assistance of the faculty supervisor(s).
ARTICLE II. Succession of Officers and Election Procedures (a) Succession of Officers: In the event that both the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson are absent or are otherwise unable to fulfill their duties, the First-Year Co-Chairperson shall assume the responsibilities of Chairperson, serving for the remainder of the term. If the First-Year Co-Chairperson is unable to fulfill this duty, an acting Chairperson will be elected by simple majority vote of the Board. In the event that any other Officer is unable to complete a term of office, the Board shall elect a replacement to serve the remainder of the term. Such election will be coordinated by the Board.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws (b) Election Procedures: Those members seeking election to Offices shall be required to sign a statement before being officially recognized as a candidate. That statement will include: 1) a statement of the fiduciary duty of Board Members of the Association; 2) a description of the duties of the particular office; and 3) a pledge to uphold the purposes of the Association as enumerated in Article II of the Constitution. Members seeking election to Offices shall have paid dues from the preceding year.
ARTICLE III. Meetings (a) Executive Board Meeting: Each incoming Board shall establish the time and place of the first regular Board meeting, to be held no later than September 15 th. At the first regular Board meeting of each quarter the Board shall devise a meeting schedule for the remainder of the quarter. (1) Attendance: Board members are required to attend Board meetings. (2) Expulsion: Board members who do not attend the majority of meetings over the course of the academic year may be expelled from the Board. In case of expulsion, the Board shall select a new At-Large Board member. The Board shall have complete discretion to expel. The Board shall not expel members with extenuating circumstances, e.g., financial inability to attend, or sudden illness, or similar circumstances. (b) General Assembly: The regular meeting of the Association during the academic quarters shall be known as the “General Assembly” meeting. It shall be for the purpose of conducting the business of the Association, electing officers, and receiving reports from staff members and committees. (1) The term “General Assembly” of “General Membership” (hereinafter referred to as the “Assembly”) shall mean a meeting of the members of the Association. (2) All powers not specifically delegated to the officers and members of this Association reside with the Assembly. (3) All Association business subject to a vote of the Assembly will be determined by a simple majority vote of a quorum unless otherwise provided. (4) All decisions by the Board shall be subject to review by the Assembly. The Assembly may revise, overrule, or modify any such decision by a two-thirds vote at any General Assembly meeting where a quorum is present. (c) Special Meetings: Special meetings may be called by the Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, or by the majority of the Board. The purpose of the meetings shall be stated in the call. No business shall be transacted except that announced in the call of the special meeting. At least two (2) days notice shall be given in order to call a special meeting. (d) Order of Business: The order of business at all General Assembly meetings shall be as follows: (1) Call Meeting to order (2) Reading of minutes, subject to approval (3) Receipt of communications (4) Reports by officers and staff (5) Reports by Committees – Standing and Ad Hoc (6) Unfinished Business (7) New Business (8) Vote when needed (9) Adjournment (e) Quorum: (1) Executive Board: A quorum of the Board shall consist of a simple majority. For the purposes of this document, a simple majority establishing a quorum shall be defined as one more than half of the elected officers of the Board. (2) General Assembly: A quorum of the Assembly is a simple majority of the active membership. (3) If no quorum is present at either the Executive or General Assembly Meetings, there shall be no voting on official business of the Association. This provision shall not apply to meetings of the standing committees.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws
ARTICLE IV. Financial Affairs (a) Financing: This Association shall be financed primarily by dues, fund-raising activities, donations, grants, and the Northeastern University School of Law. The Board of NUSL-BLSA shall be required to appropriate funds as required by and in accordance with the Association’s Constitution. (b) Financial Efforts: All financial efforts shall be for the benefit of all members and the Association in accordance with rules promulgated by the Board. (c) Indemnification: All officers and committee members shall be indemnified by the Association, upon serving in their official capacity.
ARTICLE V. Voting (a) Simple Majority Vote: For the purpose of this document, a simple majority vote shall be defined as: at least one more than half of the votes cast by persons entitled to vote, excluding blanks and abstentions, at a regular or properly called meeting at which a quorum is present. (b) Two-Thirds Vote: For the purpose of this document, a two-thirds vote shall be defined as: at least two-thirds of the votes cast by persons entitled to vote, excluding blanks and abstentions, at a regular or properly called meeting at which a quorum is present.
ARTICLE V. Disciplinary Proceedings (a) Grounds: Failure to perform the duties of the office as prescribed in this Constitution and Bylaws, or conduct detrimental to the well being of this Association shall constitute grounds for disciplinary action. (b) Recommendation: Any member of NUSL-BLSA may submit to the Board a written recommendation that an officer be disciplined for conduct described in Section 1 of this Article and Article X of the Constitution. (c) Hearing: The Board, acting on such recommendation, voting by a simple majority may call a hearing on the merits of the recommendation at the next regularly scheduled Board meeting or at a special meeting to determine whether there are grounds for disciplinary action against the officer in question. Such officer shall be given reasonable, written notice and an opportunity to defend him/herself at the hearing. (d) Discipline: If grounds for disciplinary action exist, censure or impeachment of the officer in question shall be appropriate. (e) Censure: Censure may entail the dissemination by the Board of an intra-Association or public announcement disassociating the Association with the conduct of the officer(s) in question. Censure shall be in order upon a twothirds vote of the Board. (f) Impeachment: Impeachment is in order upon a two-thirds vote of the Board and two-thirds vote of the General Membership.
ARTICLE VI. Constitutional and Bylaws Interpretation (a) Faculty Advisor(s): One or more Northeastern University School of Law professor(s) shall serve in the position of Faculty Advisor to advise and counsel the Chairperson and the Board on procedure of this Association. In the event that a Faculty Advisor is no longer able to serve as an Advisor, the General Assembly shall nominate and invite an additional professor to serve as Faculty Advisor. (b) Interpretation: The Faculty Advisor(s) shall be the final authority, subject to Article III, Section 2(D) of these Bylaws, to decide all questions of interpretation and construction of the constitutional and bylaw authority and procedural rules of this association.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws Appendix A. Awards
THE SPIRIT OF VALERIE GORDON BOOK AWARD The “Spirit of Valerie Gordon Book Award” is an honor reserved only for first-year Kemet Chapter members. The Valerie Gordon Book Award presents an opportunity for the first-year members to delve into the rigors of legal writing and analysis and be honored for having written the best three to five page essay on a topic selected by the BLSA executive board. The essay topic, which generally concerns current legal events that impact African American lawyers and law students, is distributed in early March. The Award is later presented to the winning essayist at the “Valerie Gordon Human Rights Lecture” in late March or early April. The recipient of the Award receives the honor of having his/her essay read before the Lecture attendees, which not only includes distinguished speakers, but also members of Valerie Gordon’s family. Valerie Gordon, a graduate of Northeastern University School of Law’s Class of 1993 was an important member of the Law School’s community. Her background in journalism set her apart from her classmates. An outspoken and active member of the Third World Coalition, Valerie Gordon helped keep pressure on NUSL to increase diversity in student enrollment and faculty hiring. In addition, Valerie Gordon was active in the fight for international, domestic and local human rights. Shortly after graduation and the delivery of her first and only child, Valerie Gordon passed away. After her untimely death, Valerie’s family received notice that she had passed the Massachusetts Bar Exam, which she took during the end of her pregnancy. Subsequently, the Office of the Dean, with the support of then Dean David Hall, decided to offer a book award of $500 in Valerie Gordon’s honor each year. Valerie Gordon’s spirit launched the “Valerie Gordon Human Rights Lecture,” which is held in the Spring and has hosted distinguished speakers who have contributed to the advancement of human rights both internationally and domestically. Past speakers have included Randall Robinson of TransAfrica, Judge Nathaniel Jones, Ambassador Dessima Williams, Professors Charles Ogletree, Adrien Wing, Makau Mutua, South African Constitutional Court of Justice Albie Sachs and most recently Jaribu Hill, executive director and founder of the Mississippi Workers’ Center for Human Rights. Valerie Gordon’s presence is recalled with the warmest of regards and the utmost gratitude. Her contributions to NUSL have paved the way for present and incoming classes of Black law students. Valerie Gordon’s spirit lives within the halls of NUSL, and in the hearts of BLSA.
THE DENISE CARTY-BENNIA MEMORIAL BAR AWARD The “Denise Carty-Bennia Memorial Bar Award” is an endowment for bar-related expenses, which is presented to four third-year students of color who have submitted the best essays on a topic selected by the NUSL Alumni Associate Board of Directors Alumni/ae of Color Committee. The Award amount ranges from $600 to $1000. The essay is generally three to five pages long and it is based on Professor Carty-Bennia’s objective to expand opportunities for people of color. The winning third-years are honored for writing the most thorough, coherent and overall well-written essay in mid May at the Award ceremony. Each recipient is honored by having excerpts of his/her essay read before the invitees, which includes NUSL faculty and administration, all potential recipients and also a keynote speaker. Denise Carty-Bennia was a member of Northeastern University School of Law’s faculty for thirteen years, prior to her passing on September 11, 1990. Professor Carty-Bennia joined the faculty following positions at Wayne State University Law School in Detroit, Michigan, and with a New York City law firm. Professor Carty-Bennia was a highly successful attorney and a tireless educator, advisor, mentor, and friend to countless Northeastern law students. Professor Carty-Bennia’s curriculum vitae was nothing short of inspiring. Professor Carty-Bennia was a 1969 graduate of Barnard College and received her Juris Doctor from Columbia University in 1973. She was the author of several widely disseminated amicus briefs filed before the United States Supreme Court. Professor CartyBennia co-authored a brief submitted to the Supreme Court in the Webster v. Reproductive Health Services, 109 S. Ct. 3040 (1989). Written on behalf of 900 law faculty nationwide, the brief was cited by Justice Harry Blackmun in
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws his written dissent. Id. at 3076, n. 9. Professor Carty-Bennia had also testified before various Congressional subcommittees on topics such as racially motivated violence, and sex and race differences on standardized tests. In 1985, Professor Carty-Bennia co-founded and served as chair of the Board of Directors of the National Center for Fair and Open Testing (FAIRTEST). She served as co-chair of the Board of Directors of the National Conference of Black Lawyers from 1979-81 and as the chair of the section on Minority Groups of the Association of American Law Schools from 1982-83. She was co-founder and steering committee member of the Northeastern University Black Faculty Organization. Professor Carty-Bennia received many honors for her work in legal education, including the Distinguished Service in Legal Education from the Massachusetts Black Lawyers Association, and an official citation for Outstanding Distinction in the Field of Legal Education from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts State Senate. She was the 1988 recipient of an award for Outstanding Commitment and Social Responsibility to the Community from WRBB-Radio, Northeastern University. Professor Carty-Bennia was an invaluable resource to students from all walks of life. She was particularly instrumental in supporting the academic achievement of BLSA students and she also actively promoted the interests of our BLSA chapter within the administration before her untimely death. A photo of Professor Carty-Bennia hangs across from her former office, room 81 Cargill. Revered by NUSL through this event, Professor Carty-Bennia remains a pillar of NUSL-BLSA.
MASSACHUSETTS BLACK JUDGES CONFERENCE BOOK AWARD Each year, the Massachusetts Black Judges Conference presents a book award to nine Massachusetts Black law students. Students are nominated based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, potential trial skills, and need. The Book Award Committee selects the winners from a list of nominees. The award, a stipend for textbooks, is awarded to the selected winners at an Award Ceremony. The Ceremony is attended by judges, award recipient students and their family and friends. The Ceremony is also an excellent opportunity for the Kemet winner to network with the Black judges that preside over the Massachusetts Courts.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws Appendix B. Projects
THE 1L EVENT The 1L event is a welcoming ceremony for the Kemet Chapter’s first year students. Each year, a Black NUSL Professor opens his or her home to provide the first years with an up close and personal opportunity to become acquainted with their professors and other members of the organization. The 1L event is the first time the first-years are introduced to their extended Kemet Chapter family and support system which includes BLSA alumni, our faculty and staff of African descent, and current members of the organization. One of the basic tenets of the 1L event is to ensure that the first-years are made aware that their support system extends beyond the classroom. The event is also a great opportunity for first-years to begin networking and tapping into the resources already available at the Law School. Planning for the 1L event generally takes place over the Summer quarter and is coordinated by a few dedicated second and third year Kemet Chapter members. The event is normally held within the first few weeks of the Fall semester and it is actually the event that kicks off the Kemet Chapter’s year.
THE 3L EVENT The 3L event is an honorary ceremony held in late April or early May for the Kemet Chapter’s graduating third year students. Having its origins in the 3L event started by all of NUSL’s affinity groups in the late 80s, the Kemet Chapter’s 3L event was launched by then Dean and now Professor David Hall in the early 1990s. The tradition has since been passed along with each composition of the Kemet Chapter. The 3L event has become a staple in BLSA’s traditions. Each year, the graduating 3Ls are presented with authentic Kente Cloth stoles to be worn during NUSL’s Commencement Ceremony, Certificates of Achievement and gifts from the organization in recognition of their accomplishment of a remarkable milestone: graduating from the School of Law. The 3L event is a time when Kemet Chapter members past and present are gathered in one room, experiencing the roots of their success, reminiscing on years past and providing encouragement for years to come. In addition, the 3L event reminds the graduating class of the undying and ever-growing support structure that is the Kemet Chapter family. All members are given the opportunity to share their most candid and memorable moments from NUSL. The first-years are integral to this component of the tradition as they are required to prepare a speech, poem or to share a story about a particular 3L, which is then read before the invitees. Often interrupted by tears and outbursts of laughter, the stories that are shared have shaped the 3L event into what it is today: an emotional, yet highly anticipated opportunity to gather in the company of people we have grown to know, admire and love over the last three years. The 3L event is but one exemplar of the Kemet Chapter’s recognition of and support for its members, here the focus is on the graduating class.
THE KEMET CHAPTER 1L EXAM REVIEW SESSIONS The African proverb “it takes a village to raise a child,” provides some insight and background regarding the 1L review sessions. A tradition of significant proportions, the upper level Kemet Chapter members take it upon themselves to hold review sessions for our first years during the close of each semester. The review sessions are exclusively for the Kemet Chapter’s first-years. They are slow-paced, thorough and adaptable to all sections of the first-year courses. The Kemet Chapter review sessions give our first-years an opportunity to ask the questions and pose the hypothetical scenarios they did not or could not in class. The review sessions present yet another opportunity for our first-years to utilize the safe space provided by the Kemet support system and to receive the encouragement and guidance they require. Providing tips, clarification, outlines and other forms of support during the first-year exam phase, the 1L review sessions provide our first-years with the help they need to succeed here at NUSL.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws
The Kemet Chapter holds dear to its traditions and seeks to provide a strong support system for its members. To that end, the Kemet Chapter instituted the Mentor/Mentee program some years ago. The program matches up current members with African-American students from the first year class well in advance of the start of the first year classes. Each entering first-year is matched with a Social Mentor and an Academic Mentor and is then contacted by the Mentors prior to their arrival here at NUSL. The Kemet Chapter member charged with the task of matching up the mentors and mentees generally uses information from the Office of Admissions to pair up people from the same geographical area and/or undergraduate institution. Because of NUSL’s unique Cooperative Legal Education Program, the coordinator also makes every effort to provide each mentee with a mentor for both the first and second semesters. The Mentor’s role in the Mentee’s law school career is substantial and noteworthy. The Mentors generally support Mentees by going on lunch and/or dinner dates, including the “Lunch or Dinner with a Professor” series; having one-on-one review sessions; providing help with Legal Practice and other first-year courses; offering outlines; and also by introducing non-Massachusetts native first-years to the City of Boston. In addition, the Mentors provide the Mentees with an often-needed listening ear for the 1Ls to discuss not only academic-related problems, but also personal issues that may be interfering with the School of Law’s demanding schedule. Often 1L mentees will highlight meaningful and deeply appreciated experiences they had with mentors at the 3L event. Our Mentor/Mentee program provides a foundation for building strong, ever-lasting relationships that reinforce the ideals and mission of NUSL’s BLSA.
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws
Appendix C. Optional Projects
THE ANNUAL KEMET CHAPTER POTLUCK Enriched with the ingredients and dishes of our ancestors, the entire NUSL community gathers in the Commons to enjoy the fruits and entrees of the annual Kemet Chapter Potluck. With foods from all facets of Black culture including Southern and West Indian dishes, the Potluck is a time to share our favorite foods with the entire NUSL community. Due to the unique features of NUSL’s Cooperative Education Program, the Potluck is run entirely by firstyear students. Held in early November, the potluck has been a successful way for the Kemet Chapter to raise funds since its inception many, many years ago. The Potluck provides a time for bonding with one-another as Kemet Chapter members exchange recipes, prepare dishes together and enjoy each other’s company while serving food to our colleagues and taking a break from the rigors of law school. The Kemet Chapter is not the only organization to hold an annual Potluck. Each of the ALSA’s holds their own potluck and we strongly encourage Kemet members to support their fellow students of color by attending the potluck celebrations.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A LAW STUDENT Consistent with the principles governing the Black Law Students Association, the Kemet Chapter has instituted a one-day program which reinforces the ideal of recruiting law students and maintaining awareness of the needs within the Black community. “A Day In The Life Of A Law Student” was launched in the Winter of 2004 at the suggestion of BLSA members who were seeking to bridge the gap between the University at large and the Law School here at Northeastern. Additionally, noting the declining rate of enrollment of Black students in law schools nationwide, the Kemet Chapter instituted this program to provide encouragement, advice and networking opportunities to aspiring Black attorneys. The planning process for the program starts in early October and it requires the participation of five to seven Kemet Chapter members. Undergraduate students from Northeastern University and other area undergraduate institutions are invited to NUSL to participate in “A Day In The Life Of A Law Student.” Held in late October or early November, the program provides undergraduate students with an opportunity to learn about law school by attending classes with current second and third year law students and later discussing with Kemet Chapter members their aspirations, fears and general questions regarding law school. This newly-established tradition is indicative of the Kemet Chapter’s commitment to and advancement of the Black community and the aspiring future attorneys.
THE KEMET CHAPTER’S LUNCH OR DINNER WITH A PROFESSOR As one of our newest traditions, the Kemet Chapter started this program in 2005. It is an opportunity for our first-years to overcome the distance and relative intimidation feeling that can be generated by the knowledge, expertise and differences between 1L Kemet members and their professors. The lunch and dinner series allows our first-years to speak with any and all of the professors who teach the first-year curriculum in an environment less formal than the classroom. Through this program Kemet members can establish meaningful relationships with their professors by allowing them to proactively maximize their learning and to refine their networking skills. Generally held in a local, on-campus eatery, the dinner and lunch series can occur at various points throughout the year.
THE KEMET CHAPTER DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH Black History Month is, for us, a time to reinforce BLSA’s presence at NUSL and to educate the entire NUSL community about Black historical events. Each year during the month of February, the halls of NUSL are filled with reminders of the struggle that has defined the plight of Black people in this country. By hosting a number of varying events, contests and programs, the Kemet Chapter actively promotes awareness during Black History
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NUSL-BLSA Constitution & Bylaws Month. The Kemet Chapter proclaims the importance of Black History Month by showing movies that concern the African-American struggle for civil and human rights and also African-American culture as a whole. Past movies have included: Sankofa, OJ: A Study in Black and White, the PBS Documentary: Eyes on the Prize, and Ray. In addition, the Kemet Chapter also works with the staff in NUSL’s library to gather books written by Black authors and other works that concern Black issues. The books are then displayed in a case in the library, surrounded by African artifacts. With the help of some highly creative and dedicated first-years, the Kemet Chapter began the “Snack and a Fact” and Black History Month trivia components of our Black History Celebration in 2005. The “Snack and a Fact” piece of our month-long celebration is held during the activities period. During that period, NUSL students, faculty and staff gather near the Commons to receive a traditional snack of our ancestors that has attached to it a historical fact. The sesame cookie is one example of a snack that had an attached explanation of the sesame, introduced in the United States by African slaves and referred to as good luck in African culture. The Black History Month trivia is an online trivia game that is open to all students at NUSL. Posted on the school’s WEBoard, the trivia contest includes multiple choice questions on a range of topics related to Black History. The trivia winner is awarded a prize determined by the Kemet Chapter’s executive board. BLSA is continuously building upon and strengthening its traditions. For the Kemet Chapter, Black History Month is a time to reflect, appreciate our ancestors and to reinforce our ideals and mission.
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