Chapter Started Kit:
The Structure of SEDS-USA
Introduction
Before discussing how to set up your chapter, it is helpful to gain a basic understanding of the large-scale structure of SEDS-USA. This section explains the purposes and duties of various leadership facets of the national organization. More information can always be found in our bylaws or by visiting http://www.seds.org/.
The Executive Board
The Executive Board of SEDS-USA is made up of the Chair, Vice-Chair, Webmaster, and seven directorships. This committee, which is always reachable by email via the web site, is in charge of representing SEDS and by coordinating the activities involved inside SEDS. The Board is responsible for conducting SEDS-USA business and acting on chapter desires. They are elected annually by the chapters.
The Chair is responsible for coordinating the directorships and for representing SEDS to the outside world. The Vice-Chair (or Assistant Chair) is responsible for representing the students to the Board of Advisors and will also assume the Chair if the incumbent is ill or resigns.
The Seven Directorships are as follows: Chapter Affairs, Chapter Expansion, Finance, Publications, Educational Outreach, Special Projects, and High School Affairs. Each is headed by a director who coordinates the actions of the committee.
The Council of Chapters
The Council, composed of Chapter Representatives, is elected by the individual chapters and coordinated by the Director of Chapter Affairs . The responsibility of the chapter representatives is to express their chapter’s views to the national organization. The Council convenes bi-weekly to discuss major issues concerning SEDS-USA, while communication between all chapters and the national board is encouraged regularly. The Council has ultimate authority over the Executive Board.
The Board of Advisors
The Board of Advisors (BOA) is a committee comprised of SEDS alumni, space industry professionals, and other interested adults. The BOA provides guidance, support, and continuity for SEDS-USA. The Vice-Chair, as stated above, acts as liaison to the BOA, responsible for communication between the two. While all interested parties are invited to become part of SEDS Alumni program, the Board of Advisors is appointed for terms as per the bylaws.
SEDS-USA Leadership
The leaders of SEDS-USA are there for you. They want to hear your ideas and input on any issue you feel needs to be addressed. Most of the SEDS leadership at the national level is involved in their chapter leadership as well, and all the students of course have their load of classes and exams. In order to make a difference you have to be persistent. The leadership positions come up for re-election yearly, so if you want to make a difference, run for an office! It is a very rewarding experience.
