Overview
Student Association
Of George Brown College
Constitution
Adopted:
January 14, 2002
Amended by Board of Directors:
January 17th, 2005
December 16th, 2005
Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE 1: MISSION STATEMENT………………………………………………………………..…… PG. 2
ARTICLE 2: MANDATE……………………………..…………………………………………………… PG. 2
ARTICLE 3: ORGANIZATION OF THE STUDENT ASSOCIATION….……………………………… PG. 3
ARTICLE 4: JURISDICTION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS….………………………………… PG. 3
ARTICLE 5: JURISDICTION OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND COLLECTIVE DUTIES… PG. 5
ARTICLE 6: STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD…………………………………………… PG. 6
ARTICLE 7: STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE STUDENT ASSOCIATION…..………………… PG. 10
ARTICLE 8: AD HOC COMMITTEES: MANDATE AND COMPOSITION…..…………………… PG. 12
ARTICLE 9: HOURS OF WORK OF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE…………………………………….. PG. 13
ARTICLE 10: DUTIES OF THE PRESIDENT………………………………………………………….. PG. 13
ARTICLE 11: DUTIES OF THE VICE-PRESIDENT EDUCATION………………………………….. PG. 14
ARTICLE 12: DUTIES OF THE CAMPUS VICE-PRESIDENTS……………………………………… PG. 14
ARTICLE 13: DUTIES OF ACADEMIC ISSUES PORTFOLIO ……………………………………… PG. 15
ARTICLE 14: DUTIES OF STUDENT LIFE PORTFOLIO …………………………………………… PG. 15
ARTICLE 15: DUTIES OF FINANCE AND SERVICES PORTFOLIO………………………………. PG. 15
ARTICLE 16: DUTIES OF THE CAMPUS DIRECTORS……………………………………………… PG. 16
ARTICLE 17: DUTIES OF THE FIRST YEAR REPRESENTATIVES ……………………………….. PG. 16
ARTICLE 18: DUTIES OF THE EDUCATIONAL CENTRE REPRESENTATIVES …………… PG. 16
ARTICLE 19: DUTIES OF THE CONSTITUENCY REPRESENTATIVES…………………………. PG. 17
ARTICLE 20: DUTIES OF THE EX OFFICIO BOARD MEMBERS…………………………………. PG. 18
ARTICLE 21: ADVISORY COUNCILS………………………………………………………………….. PG. 18
ARTICLE 22: ELECTIONS …………………………….……………………………………………….. PG. 18
ARTICLE 23: REMUNERATION OF MEMBERS……………………………………………………… PG. 19
ARTICLE 24: CONSTITUTION AMENDING PROCESS……………………………………………… PG. 19
Article 1 – Mission Statement
Article 1: Mission Statement
We are the students of George Brown College committed to supporting each other in the struggle for students’ rights, the pursuit of quality education and the provision of services in a safe, equitable and accessible environment.
Article 2 – Organizational Mandate
2.01 Organizational Mandate
The Student Association functions as the central student government representing the interests of all George Brown College students. The Student Association focuses on representation, advocacy, and the delivery of services and the operation of businesses to support its overall mandate. The Student Association’s basic objectives shall be:
a. To build a united student movement among the students of George Brown College regardless of gender, race, religion, ethnicity, language, ability, sexual orientation, age or socio-economic status.
b. To provide a democratic forum to voice students’ concerns and issues.
c. To provide the opportunity for students to unite in various student groups to address concerns specific to particular constituencies of the Student Association.
d. To facilitate cooperation among all students and student groups to work towards common goals on a cooperative basis.
e. To voice the students’ perspective on issues at the College, municipally, provincially, and federally and to represent those interests at all levels.
f. To promote awareness of pertinent College activities and policies.
g. To strive towards a high-quality education by providing optimal support services that are accessible to all students.
2.02 Representation and Advocacy
With respect to representation and advocacy, the Student Association shall:
a. Act as an advocate on behalf of students whenever student rights have been violated.
b. Ensure that the college establishes equitable policies and procedures for the resolution of student concerns and that such polices and procedures are adhered to and administered consistently.
c. Recommend changes to policies and procedures wherever students’ rights are not being adequately met.
d. Advocate for the delivery of College services that support students in their academic studies and daily experiences at the College.
e. Work to ensure that the College is fully accessible to all students.
f. Represent, promote and defend students’ interests at the local, provincial and federal levels of government and all levels of decision-making within the College.
2.03 Services
With respect to student services, the Student Association shall:
a. Provide the opportunity and support for student groups to form and function to meet the needs of students.
b. Provide activities and events for students to participate in and to socialize with other students and members of the College community.
c. Provide a comprehensive orientation program for new members of the Student Association.
d. Deliver services to groups of students that are traditionally underrepresented to provide an atmosphere where students can socialize and advocate for those issues specific to the constituency.
e. Communicate issues, concerns, events and activities to students and provide the opportunity for student feedback through all means available including student publications.
f. Provide student owned and operated spaces for students to relax and socialize in a safe, healthy and accessible environment.
2.04 Financial Operations
With respect to financial operations and business, the Student Association shall:
a. Generate revenue to support services, initiatives, and facilities.
b. Provide flexible jobs opportunities for students to work on campus.
c. Provide reasonably priced alternatives to students.
d. Maintain student membership fees at the lowest feasible level.
Article 3: Organization of the Student Association
The Student Association of George Brown College shall be governed by the Bylaws and this Constitution as well as operational policies and procedures. Wherever any discrepancy seems to exist among those documents, the Bylaws shall prevail.
3.01 Bylaws
The Bylaws shall establish the generic legal composition of the Student Association, as well as the powers, authority and overall composition of its various components including its membership.
3.02 Constitution
The Constitution shall outline the mission, purpose and mandate, as well as the specific composition, of the Student Association Board, Executive, Standing Committees and Ad Hoc Committees. The Constitution shall also establish the jurisdiction and duties of the Student Association’s officers, directors, representatives and various components.
3.03 Policies and Procedures
The Student Association shall establish polices and procedures that govern the day-to-day operations of the organization, in accordance with the Bylaws.
Article 4: Jurisdiction of the Board of Directors
4.01 The Board of Directors will have ultimate jurisdiction over the affairs of the Student Association and its various components. The board shall:
a. Ensure that the Student Association adheres to its Bylaws, Constitution, Policies and Procedures and all applicable municipal, provincial and federal laws.
b. Establish Policies and Procedures in accordance with paragraph 12.04 of the Bylaws.
c. Appoint Commissioners in accordance with Article 8 of the Bylaws.
d. Develop and monitor the long term strategic direction of the organization.
e. Develop, establish and modify new and existing programs, services and financial operations.
f. Establish and monitor the annual budget for the organization and its subsidiary operations.
g. Revise the annual budget as needed.
h. Approve expenditures from internally restricted funds.
i. Approve expenditures not included in the annual budget.
j. Carry out any borrowing on behalf of the organization
k. Receive proposals with respect to student ancillary fees, make fee adjustment recommendations, and approve ancillary fees pending approval of the College’s Board of Governors.
l. Make decisions concerning Human Resources including Compensation, benefits, and issues pertaining to the Executive Director.
m. Make decisions concerning the impeachment of members of the Board.
n. Meet at least once per month.
o. Approve policy statements concerning the official opinion and position of the Student Association.
p. Make recommendations to College Council concerning academic, service, and other issues.
q. Appoint individuals to standing committees.
r. Monitor the work of the committees and assist with the implementation of campaigns, activities, publicity and events.
s. Bring forward students’ concerns to the appropriate committee.
Article 4: Board of Directors Composition
The Board of Directors shall consist of the following members:
a. Executive Members
i. President
ii. Vice-President Education
iii. Vice-President Casa Loma
iv. Vice-President Ryerson
v. Vice-President St. James
b. At-Large Representatives
i. Casa Loma Campus Director
vii.ii. Ryerson Campus Director
viii.iii. St. James Campus Director
ii.iv. First Year Representative Casa Loma
iv.v. First Year Representative Ryerson
v.vi. First Year Representative St. James
c. Educational Centre Representatives
i. Building Technologies
ii. Business
iii. Community Services
iv. Creative Arts
v. Engineering Technologies
vi. General Arts and Science
vii. Health Sciences
viii. Hospitality and Tourism
d. Constituency Representatives
i. Clubs Representative
ii. International Student Representative
iii. LGBT Representative
iv. Women’s Representative
e. Ex-Officio Non-Voting Members
i. Alumni Representative
ii. Board of Governors Representative
iii. College Representative
iv. Executive Director
v. Part-time Representative
Article 5: Jurisdiction of the Executive Committee and Collective Duties
5.01 Executive members shall have jurisdiction over the respective portfolio assigned to them by the Executive Committee. In addition to individual duties, The Executive Committee shall:
a. Be familiar with and uphold all Student Association policies and procedures including, but not limited to, the Voting Director’s Accountability Manual.
b. Undergo any necessary training in order to fulfill the responsibilities of their position.
c. Carry out the decisions of the Board.
d. Develop an annual strategic plan by August 15th of each year, including but not limited to: publicity and advertising, a campaigns strategy, an events calendar, forums and advocacy issues.
e. Monitor and report to the Board concerning the status of the annual strategic plan.
f. Monitor the finances and budget of the Executive Committee and Board of directors at each meeting of the executive.
g. Ensure that expenditures are within the approved budget.
h. Monitor Human Resources issues and report to the board as needed in conjunction with the Executive Director.
i. Hold the Executive Director accountable for day-to-day operations.
j. Be responsible for working the required number of hours as stipulated in Article 9..
k. All members of the Executive Committee shall strive to work common hours during the spring/summer term to ensure that coordinated efforts are being undertaken in a team environment.
l. Encourage members to run in elections of the Student Association.
n. Be responsible for working 40 hours per week during the designated training sessions.
o. Ensure that transition sessions are held with incoming Executive Members for a minimum of three days to transfer relevant knowledge, skills, files and records before the end of the term.
p. Establish positive working relationships with College faculty, staff, administrative and community members.
q. Endeavour to contribute to the harmonious and effective interaction of staff, executive and board members.
r. Approve and coordinate all appointments to Student Association, George Brown and various Community based committee’s as required and report them to the Board of Directors;
s. Determine or deny Co-Sponsorship requests and update co-sponsorship policy in conjunction with the Policy and Governance Committee;
t. Meet at least once per month.
u. Liaise between the Student Association and student groups.
v. Monitor suggestions received from students and follow up with appropriate parties.
5.02 Executive Committee Composition
The Student Association Executive Committee shall consist of the following members:
a. Committee Composition:
i. President
ii. Vice-President Education
iii. Vice-President Casa Loma
iv. Vice-President Ryerson
v. Vice-President St. James
5.03 Any executive member who fails the duties and time commitment detailed in Articles 9 and 10 may be referred to the Board Mediation Committee for disciplinary action as per the Voting Director’s Accountability Manual.
Article 6: Standing Committees of the Board
In accordance with section 1.03 of the By Laws, The board of directors shall be assisted by committees, which shall be appointed and function in accordance with this constitution. Standing Committees of the Board are appointed for the life of the Board of Directors and can be created, amended or dissolved upon an amendment to this constitution. Standing Committees of the Board must approve and send to the Board of Directors minutes of all meetings for acceptance with a corresponding report given by the Chair to outline committee activities as outlined in the By Laws. Staff and other guests may be invited to participate in the Standing Committees, but only Board members and Executives will be eligible to vote.
6.01 Policy and Governance Committee
6.011 Policy and Governance Committee Mandate
The Policy and Governance Committee responsibilities and duties are to oversee all Governing Documents and Policies and Procedures of the Student Association. The committee’s main objective is to develop and amend policies and governance procedures to be clear, concise and comprehensive. The committee shall:
a. Review and assess the adequacy of the corporate governance guidelines of the organization and recommend any proposed changes to the Board;
b. Review all policies and procedures on an annual basis and update where needed;
c. In conjunction with Board, Student Association and Ad Hoc Committees, develop policies and procedures for consideration and approval by the Student Association Board of Directors;
d. All minutes of the committee are to be provided to the Board for acceptance.
e. Meet in accordance with the Bylaws.
6.012 Policy and Governance Committee Composition:
a. President – Chair
b. One Executive Member
c. Three non- executive Board Members
d. Legal Counsel (Ex Officio)
e. Executive Director (Ex Officio)
6.02: Human Resources Committee
6.021 Human Resources Committee Mandate
The Human Resources Committee responsibilities and duties are to oversee, develop and review all HR procedures and documents as they pertain to the organization. The committee shall:
a. Comply with the Student Association mission and equity statement and adjust as necessary.
b. Develop and improve recruitment protocols for the Board and Staff.
c. Develop and improve Hiring and Termination protocols in accordance with the Ontario Employment Standards Act.
d. Develop and improve Workplace Policies. Advise in the development and budgeting stages of Salary and Wage administration in accordance with the Employment Standards Act.
e. Oversee the employee benefits and services
f. Review and develop the Staff Grievance Protocol and the Staff Disciplinary Protocol.
g. Develop and improve Workplace health and safety policies in accordance with the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act.
h. Develop and improve Professional Development policies for all Student Association Voting Directors and employees.
i. Develop and improve the Performance Appraisal tools utilized by the organization.
j. Adhere to the provisions of the all Student Association policies and procedures, including but not limited to the Voting Directors Accountability Manual, Student Employment Human Resources Manual and the Full-Time Human Resources Manual.
k. All minutes of the committee are to be provided to the Board for acceptance.
l. Meet in accordance with the Bylaws
6.022 Human Resources Committee Composition:
a. President – Chair
b. One Executive member
c. Two non-executive Board members
d. One Full-time staff member (Ex Officio)
e. Executive Director (Ex Officio)
6.03: Standing Committees of the Board: Finance Committee
6.031 Finance Committee Mandate
The Finance Committee responsibilities and duties are to oversee the supervision and administration of all Student Association finances. The Committee shall:
a. Develop and review fiscal procedures.
b. Conduct annual budgeting with staff and other Board members; prepare a draft budget for consideration by the Board.
c. Make recommendations to the Board concerning the finances of the organization.
d. Monitor the finances and budget at each committee meeting.
e. Ensure that all expenditures are within the applicable budget lines.
f. Reallocate budget line items to ensure expenditures are within approved limits.
g. Ensure that any major change in the budget must be approved by the Board or the Executive Committee.
h. The Chair of the Finance Committee shall present monthly financial statements to the Board of Directors, highlighting any major expenses or changes in revenue.
i. All minutes of the committee are to be provided to the Board for acceptance.
j. Meet in accordance with the bylaws.
6.032 Finance Committee Composition:
a. Vice-President responsible for Finance portfolio - Chair
b. One Executive Member
c. Two non-executive Board Members
d. President (Ex Officio)
e. Finance Coordinator (Ex Officio)
f. Executive Director (Ex Officio)
6.04: Health and Dental Plan Advisory Committee
6.041 Health and Dental Plan Advisory Committee Mandate:
The Health Plan Advisory Committee responsibilities and duties are to oversee, develop and review the Health Plan to insure that it is functioning in the best interest of the membership. The Committee shall:
a. Ensure that the Health Plan is consistent with the Student Association mandate and mission statement
b. Review the Health trends of Students in Ontario to ensure that Students have appropriate Health and Dental coverage.
c. Review the Health and Dental Plan benefits on a yearly basis and offer new health options to students if needed while ensuring that additional premiums are affordable.
d. Ensure that the health plan fee charged to students offers the best coverage for the money they are being charged.
e. Establish Health Plan Fees in conjunction with the Finance Committee for approval by the Board of Directors.
f. Make decisions in regards to Student Health Plan Appeals,
g. Report to the Board of Directors the Status and health of the Benefits plan
h. Oversee the Health Plan Fund
i. Compare health plan providers yearly for the best possible service to students
j. Work with the college to ensure that fee’s are collected and remitted to the Student Association in a timely manner
k. Create policies and procedures around the Health and Dental Plan and present to the Governance Committee to review and make a recommendation to the Board of Directors for approval.
l. Invite guests such as the George Brown College Registrar (or Designate), George Brown College Comptroller, Manager of Accounts Receivable, and a Representative from IT at least twice a year to sort out Health and Dental Plan administrative issues that may come up from time to time
6.042 Health and Dental Plan Advisory Committee Composition:
a. Vice-President Finance and Services (Chair)
b. President
c. Health Benefits Coordinator
d. Senior Manager of Student Services
e. 2 Board members
f. Executive Director (Ex-Officio)
6.05 Elections Committee
6.051 Elections Committee Mandate
The key function of the Elections Committee is to plan, organize, and coordinate elections and By Elections of the Student Association. The Committee shall:
a) Hire the Chief Returning Officer (CRO) and two Deputy Returning Officers
b) Plan, organize and implement the annual Student Association Election and By Election
c) Members of the Election Committee shall serve from the date of their appointment until and including the final meeting of the Election Committee to be held following, but not more than two (2) weeks after, the expiration of the time allowed for requesting a recount of ballots.
d) Update job descriptions for the CRO, DRO’s, and Poll Clerks
e) Hire CRO and DRO’s
f) Update as needed the Nomination and Elections Package
g) Set all election related dates and timelines related to nomination periods, all candidates meetings, campaign periods, voting days and announcements etc.
h) The Chief Returning Officer shall act as the liaison between the Election Committee and the Board and between the Election Committee and all Candidates.
i) In conjunction with the CRO and DRO’s, organize all-candidates’ forums as required
j) In conjunction with the CRO and DRO’s, co-ordinate all advertising with respect to each election
k) In conjunction with the CRO and DRO’s, collect and review all candidates’ expenditure forms
l) Submit a report to the Board following the election in question within a reasonable amount of time in respect to the conduct of each election with recommendations, if any, for changes in Election regulations or procedures.
6.052 Committee Membership
a) Chief Returning Officer (Co-Chair)
b) 2 Deputy Returning Officers
c) Executive Director
d) Communications Coordinator
e) Two Executive Members who are not running in the elections (One of which acts as Co-Chair)
f) Two Board Members who are not running in the elections
6.06 Board Mediation Committee
6.061 Board Mediation Committee Mandate
The key function of the Board Mediation Committee is to hear and resolve conflicts arising between and among voting Directors as well as concerns about voting director raised by voting directors, students and staff. The Board Mediation Committee shall:
a) Interpret and apply the Voting Directors Accountability Manual;
b) Resolve conflicts between voting Directors;
c) Make recommendations to the Board of Directors concerning matters of impeachment or censure of Voting Directors;
d) Mandate individual or group training sessions pertaining to issues including but not limited too: conflict resolution, anger management, personal counselling, academic counselling and time management;
e) Rectify breaches of Student Association policy;
f) Impose financial penalties for failure to carry out duties and responsibilities;
g) Suspend voting Directors;
h) Suspend Executive members, with or without pay; and,
i) Request voting Directors to resign.
The voting Directors have a responsibility to follow the grievance and discipline procedures contained in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual, and abide by the decisions made by the Board Mediation Committee. Where a voting Director fails to abide by the decisions of the Committee, or where a member appeals a decision, the Board of Directors will be the final decision making body.
6.062 Committee Membership
a) The Executive Members of the Student Association;
b) The Legal Counsel as an advisor and ex-officio member;
c) The Executive Director as an advisor and ex-officio member; and,
d) Where required, up to three members selected from among the Board of Directors.
The Board of Directors shall submit a list of three non-Executive members who shall be available to serve on the Board Mediation Committee where Executive members have deemed a conflict and the remaining number of executives on the Committee is less than three.
Article 7: Standing Committees of the Student Association
Standing Committees of the Student Association shall be formed in accordance with this Constitution to carry out the operational, advocacy and student life aspects of the Student Association. Standing Committee’s of the Student Association shall encompass a broader membership and may include board members, executives, staff and at large students of George Brown College. The Committees are to keep minutes for internal record keeping but do not need to present them to the Board for acceptance.
7.01 Campaigns / Educational Issues Committee
7.011 Campaigns / Educational Issues Committee Mandate
The Campaigns / Educational Issues Committee will be responsible for taking an active role at the Provincial and National levels of the Canadian Federation of Students. This committee shall lobby locally, municipally, provincially and federally on issues of importance to students daily lives, including but not limited to tuition and college funding. This Committee is also mandated to work with the Life Works Centre on equity issues. The Campaign Committee/ Educational Issues shall:
a. Work with approved coalitions on issues affecting students.
b. Develop an annual campaign strategy to raise awareness concerning student issues.
c. Develop awareness campaigns and activities that promote equity issues
d. Work in Conjunction with the Life Works Centre on pertinent services and initiatives.
e. Minutes of all committee meetings will be taken and be filed at the end of the year with the Information Coordinator.
f. All committee reports or recommendations will be included with the Committee chair’s report to the Board.
g. Meet at least once per month.
7.012 Campaigns / Educational Issues Committee Composition:
a. Vice-President Education (Co-Chair)
b. Up to three members of the Board
c. Other interested students at the discretion of the Committee
d. Campaigns Coordinator (Co-Chair)
e. Student Involvement & Advocacy Coordinator
f. Sr. Mgr. Student Services (or designate)
g. Sr. Mgr. Marketing & Communications (or designate)
7.02: Academic Issues Committee
7.021 Academic Issues Committee Mandate
The Academic Issues Committee will be responsible for student appeals, academic policy monitoring, development and program based forums. The Committee shall:
a. Represent students at appeal hearings wherever appropriate.
b. Develop and maintain positive relationships with Coordinators, Chairs and Deans to assist with the appeals process.
c. Review College policies and procedures concerning academics and appeals; and recommend changes as needed.
d. Organize and implement forums on academic topics and issues that concern students.
e. Minutes of all committee meetings will be taken and be filed at the end of the year with the Information Coordinator.
f. All committee reports and recommendations will be included with the Committee Chair’s report to the Board.
g. Meet at least once per month.
7.022 Academic Issues Committee Composition
a. Vice-President responsible for Academic Issues (Co-Chair)
b. Up to three members of the Board
c. Other interested students at the discretion of the Committee
d. Student Involvement and Advocacy Coordinator (Co-Chair)
e. Appeals Support Staff
f. Sr. Mgr. Student Services (or designate)
7.03 Orientation Committee
7.031 Orientation Committee Mandate
The Orientation Committee will be responsible for planning orientation activities and events in conjunction with the Senior Manager, Student Services. The Committee shall:
a. Create a comprehensive orientation schedule.
b. Plan events including but not limited to frosh week activities, barbeques and introductory sessions.
c. Create publicity and materials for orientation events.
d. Create and monitor the orientation budget within the budgetary limits set out in the organizational budget.
e. Work with the Ambassador Program to publicize orientation activities and events.
f. Meet at least once per month, and twice monthly from May to August.
7.032 Orientation Committee Composition:
a. Vice-President Student Life (Co-Chair)
b. All members of the executive
c. Up to three members of the Board
d. Orientation Coordinator (s) (Co-Chair)
e. Other interested students at the discretion of the Board
f. Senior Manager Student Services
g. Events Coordinator
h. Senior Ambassador
i. Senior Manager Marketing and Communications
7.04 The Source Committee
7.041 The Source Committee Mandate
The Source Committee will be responsible for the development of the annual student planner and resource guide. The Source Committee shall:
a. Select the cover and design template for the Source.
b. Determine the content and style of the Source.
c. Monitor the budget and ensure that it is within approved limits.
d. Meet at least once per month during the spring/summer term or as necessary.
7.042 The Source Committee Composition:
a. President (Chair)
b. At least two members of the executive
c. Up to three members of the Board
d. Communications Coordinator
e. Senior Manager Student Services
f. Senior Manager Marketing and Communications
7.05 Events / Student Life Committee
7.051 Events / Student Life Committee Mandate
The Events / Student Life Committee will be responsible for ensuring that students have the opportunity to participate in activities and events consistent with the principles of the Student Association and its mission. The Student Life Committee shall:
a. Develop an annual events calendar.
b. Plan and implement activities and events.
c. Support student groups through joint events and co-sponsorship.
d. Work in conjunction with the Zone (St. James Lounge) on pertinent programming activities.
e. Ensure thorough and timely advertising and publicity in conjunction with the Senior Manager Marketing and Communications, The Ambassador Program and the Board of Directors
f. Meet at least once per month.
7.052 Events / Student Life Committee Composition
a. Vice-President Student Life (Co-Chair)
b. At least 3 members of the Board
c. Other interested students at the discretion of the Committee
d. Clubs Coordinator
e. Student Involvement and Advocacy Coordinator
f. Senior Manager Student Services (or Designate)
g. Senior Manager Operations
h. Events Coordinator (Co-Chair)
i. Senior Manager Marketing and Communications
Article 8: Ad Hoc Committees Mandate and Composition
The Student Association will establish Ad Hoc committees as needed. Each Ad Hoc Committee shall be given direction from the board. The Board of Directors shall:
a. Establish the generic membership and criteria of the committee.
b. Appoint an individual to serve as chair of the committee.
c. Appoint members to the committee.
d. Establish the mandate, goals and objectives for the Ad Hoc committee.
e. Establish timelines for reporting the work of the committee.
f. Establish budgetary limits for the committee.
g. Meet in accordance with the Bylaws.
Article 9: Hours of Work of Executive Committee
The members of the Executive Committee shall be required to work the following hours as per their position. They shall be paid a salary / wage as stipulated In Article 23 of the Constitution.
9.01 The President shall:
a. Be required to work 37.5 hours per week
b. Be held accountable for these hours by the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
c. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
.
9.02 The Vice-President Education shall:
a. Be required to work 37.5 hours per week for the duration of their term of office.
b. Be held accountable for these hours by the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
c. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
9.03 The Campus Vice-Presidents:
a. Be required to work 20-25 hours per week for the duration of their term of office.
b. Be held accountable for these hours by the Board of Directors and Executive Committee.
c. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
Article 10: Duties of the President
10.01 The President shall:
a. Act as the official spokesperson of the Student Association.
b. Serve as the primary advocate for current student issues to the College.
c. Serve as a member of the College Council.
d. Attend Board of Governor meetings and act as a representative of the Student Association.
e. Be a member of all Student Association committees.
f. Serve as a signing officer of the Student Association.
g. Report to the George Brown College community concerning the activities and affairs of the Student Association.
h. Negotiate with the College on behalf of the Student Association.
i. Meet regularly with the Senior Management team to monitor the finances, services and human resources of the Student Association.
j. Report to the Board of Directors and Executive Committee concerning the finances, services and human resources of the Student Association.
k. Ensure that the affairs of the Student Association are conducted in a fiscally responsible manner.
l. In conjunction with the Senior Manager Marketing and Communications, ensure the promotion and publicity of all Student Association initiatives on all campuses through the Ambassador program, as well as any other mean available.
m. Supervise part-time staff within the Office of the President.
n. Plan and conduct at least one presidential forum per academic year.
o. Meet with each Vice-President to receive regular updates on campus issues and progress in conjunction with the Executive Committee.
p. Hold the Executive Director accountable for day-to-day operations
q. Provide information to student groups concerning Student Association initiatives.
r. Share in carrying out the collective duties of the Executive Committee (as outlined in Article 5 of this Constitution)
s. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outlined in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
Article 11: Duties of the Vice-President Education
11.01 The Vice-President Education shall:
a. Serve as the primary representative to the Canadian Federation of Students.
b. Provide regular updates and information concerning the initiatives, activities, services and campaigns of the Canadian Federation of Students to members and Council Board.
c. Serve as a member of the College’s Diversity, Equity and Safety Committee.
d. Co-Chair the Campaigns / Educational Issues Committee.
e. Create an annual campaigns plan to raise awareness concerning current student issues, to be included in the Executive annual plan.
f. Plan and implement campaign activities and events on all campuses.
g. Develop equity based awareness campaigns within the College.
h. Monitor the Life Works Centre and inform the Senior Manager Student Services of concerns.
i. Serve as a signing officer of the Student Association.
j. Serve as acting President and assume the President’s responsibilities in the absence of the President.
k. Provide information to student groups concerning Student Association initiatives.
l. Share in carrying out the collective duties of the Executive Committee (as outlined in Article 5 of the Constitution)
m. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
Article 12: Duties of the Campus Vice Presidents
12.01 The Campus Vice-Presidents shall:
a. Ensure that the interests of the students from their respective campuses are upheld.
b. Advise all appropriate Committees concerning issues pertaining to their respective campuses.
c. Meet with students from their respective campuses to listen to concerns and ideas and assist students with the resolution of issues.
d. Cooperate with the President, the Senior Manager Marketing and Communications, and the Ambassadors to publicize activities and events to the College community.
e. Assist with the planning and implementation of campus specific events.
f. Meet regularly with the representatives and campus directors from their respective campuses.
g. Provide information to student groups concerning Student Association initiatives.
h. Share in carrying out the collective duties of the Executive Committee (as outlined in Article 5 of the Constitution).
i. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outlined in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
j. Fulfill all other duties as outlined in Article 14 of this Constitution.
Article 13: Duties of Academic Issues Portfolio
13.01 The Vice-President responsible for Academic Issues shall:
a. Act as the primary advocate for student academic rights on all campuses.
b. In conjunction with the Student Involvement Advocacy Coordinator, recruit, select and train students to carry out appeals on all campuses.
c. Track all student appeals and complaints and update the Academic Issues Committee at each meeting.
d. Track all student appeals and complaints and prepare a report for the Student Association Board of Directors and College each semester.
e. Review and recommend changes to the College academic/educational policies.
f. Serve as a member of the College’s Academic Excellence Committee.
g. Establish positive working relationships with Coordinators, Chairs and Deans.
h. Co-Chair the Academic Issues Committee.
i. Plan and implement program based forums.
j. In conjunction with the Senior Manager Marketing and Communications, create advertising plans for advocacy and appeals services.
k. Meet regularly with Student Representative Councils concerning program specific issues.
l. Work with each program area within the College to ensure active participation of students in academic affairs and Student Representative Councils.
m. Work to ensure that a Student Representative Council is established in all educational program areas of the College, should no Program Representative to undertake the task.
Article 14: Duties of Student Life Portfolio
14.01 The Vice-President responsible for Student Life shall:
a. Plan and implement events on all campuses.
b. Chair the Orientation Committee.
c. Chair the Events / Student Life Committee.
d. In conjunction with the Senior Manager Marketing and Communications, create advertising plans for all activities and events.
e. Work closely with the Athletics and the Student Life department of the College concerning joint initiatives.
f. Serve as a member of the College’s Student and Staff Issues Committee
g. In conjunction with the Senior Manager Marketing and Communications, recruit, select and train part-time events staff.
h. Monitor the events budget and ensure that expenses are within budgetary limits.
i. Work closely with the Campus Directors to develop Campus specific events.
j. Meet regularly with clubs and student groups of the Student Association to coordinate events and activities.
Article 15: Duties of Finance ad Services Portfolio
15.01 The Vice-President responsible for Finance and Services shall:
a. Meet regularly with the President and Senior Manager Marketing and Communications to ensure that services and appropriate amounts of advertising and promotions are being carried out at all campuses.
b. Chair and work with the Finance Committee throughout the course of the academic year.
c. Develop and recommend the annual budget to the Board of Directors in conjunction with the Finance Committee, the Executive Committee, elected students, and Student Association Staff.
d. Prepare and present monthly financial statements to the Board of Directors in conjunction with the Finance Coordinator.
e. Present financial reports and audited statements to the membership at the Annual General Meeting.
f. Monitor the financial status of the Student Association including budget variances and make recommendations to the Board of Directors and Executive Committee regarding major expenditures in conjunction with the Finance Committee and Finance Coordinator.
g. Assist with the management of the Student Association revenue generating services including but not limited to the Student Centre operations at Casa Loma and St. James.
h. Assist with the management and oversight of the Health and Dental Plan and will act as a member of the Health and Dental Plan Committee.
Article 16: Duties of the Campus Directors
16.01 Campus Directors shall:
a. In conjunction with the members of the Executive Committee as well as the Senior Manager Marketing and Communications, work with the Ambassador Program to publicize activities, events and information on all campuses.
b. Provide information to the Executive Committee members concerning campus specific issues pertaining to their respective Executive portfolios.
c. When possible, attend non Student Association meetings within the George Brown Community and the Canadian Federation of Students; provincially and nationally. When attending such meetings, the Campus Director must follow the views and policies of the Student Association and in a timely manner prepare a report for presentation at the Board of Directors.
d. Work closely with Executive Committee members to carry out campus related responsibilities.
e. Participate in at least one Board Committee and one Standing Committee of the Student Association.
f. Attend each meeting of the Board of Directors.
g. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
h. Required to work 5 hours a week which excludes all Board and Committee meetings.
i. Support or work with First Year Representatives.
Article 17: Duties of the First Year Representatives
17.01 First Year Representatives shall:
a. Solicit feedback and regularly share information with the first year students on their respective campuses concerning Student Association activities, events and services.
b. Meet regularly with Executive members to provide information concerning problems and concerns within first year programs.
c. Attend each meeting of the Board of Directors.
d. Participate in at least one (1) Committee of the Student Association.
e. Participate in at least one (1) Committee of the Board of Directors
Article 18: Duties of the Educational Centre Representatives
18.01 The Educational Centre Representatives shall:
a. Solicit feedback and regularly share information with the Student Representative Councils for their respective educational centres and students within the corresponding programs concerning Student Association activities, events and services.
b. Attend regular meetings of the Student Representative Councils for their respective educational centres.
c. Ensure that Student Representative Councils for their respective educational centres are implemented upon their election to office, and any case in which one is already established work to ensure that it continues to operate as per the requirements set out in Article 3 of the Policy and Procedure Manual.
d. Meet regularly with the Vice-President responsible for Academic Issues to provide information concerning problems and concerns within the programs of the respective educational centres they represent.
e. Attend each meeting of the Board of Directors.
e. Participate in at least one (1) Standing Committee of Student Association and/or participate in at least one (1) Standing Committee of the Board of Directors
f. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
Article 19: Duties of the Constituency Representatives
19.01 The Constituency Representatives shall:
a. Solicit feedback and regularly share information with the respective constituency organizations concerning Student Association activities, events and services.
b. Attend regular meetings of the respective constituencies that they represent.
c. Meet regularly with the Vice-President Education and Student Involvement and Advocacy Coordinator to provide information concerning problems and concerns within their respective constituencies
d. Represent students from traditionally underrepresented groups.
e. Attend each meeting of the Board of Directors.
f. Participate in at least one Committee of the Student Association and/or participate in at least one Committee of the Board of Directors.
g. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
19.02 The International Constituency Representative shall:
a. Solicit feedback and regularly share information with International Students concerning Student Association activities, events and services.
b. Attend regular meetings of the respective constituencies that they represent.
c. Meet regularly with the Vice-President Education to provide information concerning problems and concerns with International Students.
d. Attend each meeting of the Board of Directors.
e. Participate in at least one Committee of the Student Association and/or participate in at least one Committee of the Board of Directors.
f. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
g. Be a liaison between the International Centre and the Board of Directors.
h. Advocate and bring all issues concerning international students to the Student Association Board of Directors.
19.03 Clubs Representative shall:
a. Solicit feedback and regularly share information with Clubs and Student Representative Councils concerning Student Association activities, events and services.
b. Attend regular meetings with Clubs and Student Representative Councils that they represent.
c. Meet regularly with the Vice-President Student Life and Clubs Coordinator to provide information concerning problems and concerns with Clubs and Student Representative Councils.
d. Attend each meeting of the Board of Directors.
e. Participate in at least one Committee of the Student Association and/or participate in at least one Committee of the Board of Directors.
f. Be held accountable as per the disciplinary procedure outline in the Voting Directors Accountability Manual.
Article 20: Duties of the Ex-Officio Board Members
20.01 The Ex-Officio Board Members shall:
a. Serve the Student Association Board of Directors in an advisory capacity.
b. Advise the Board concerning applicable laws, policies and procedures and past practices of the Student Association.
c. Answer questions concerning issues before the Board.
d. Attend each meeting of the Board of Directors.
Article 21: Advisory Councils
In addition to the Board of Directors, the President may appoint special advisory councils made up of students and/or College staff to address specific issues and provide information for the consideration of the Board.
The President shall establish the mandate, membership and timeline of each Advisory Council.
Article 22: Elections
Elections shall be conducted in accordance with Article 4 of the Bylaws.
22.02 Election of the President and Vice-President Education
The President and Vice-President Education shall be elected at the general election to be held during the winter semester and be a member in good standing in accordance with the Bylaws. The President and Vice-President Education shall be elected by members from among all of the campuses of George Brown College.
22.03 Election of the Campus Vice-Presidents
Each Campus Vice-President shall be elected at the general election to be held during the winter semester and shall be a member in good standing in accordance with the Bylaws. The Campus Vice-Presidents shall be elected by members registered in academic programs at the respective campuses they represent.
22.04 Election of Campus Directors Representatives
Each Campus Directors shall be elected at the general election to be held during the winter semester and shall be a member in good standing in accordance with the Bylaws. Each Campus Director shall be elected by members registered in an academic program at the corresponding campus.
22.05 Election of Educational Centre Representatives
Each Centre Representative shall be elected by the Student Representative Council (SRC) representing that program division. In the event that there is no active SRC in that division at the time of the Student Association’s general election, candidates shall be sought from the educational program division at large and elected by the members of the educational program at the general election, in the winter semester.
22.06 Election of First Year Representative
Each first year representative shall be elected at a by-election to be held during the fall semester and shall be a new student to the College registered in the first year of a College program. Each first year representative shall be elected by members registered in the first year of an academic program at the corresponding campus.
22.06 Election of Constituency Representatives
Each Constituency Representative shall be elected by the members of the constituency and the student group representing that constituency from among all campuses at a duly called meeting of the constituency.
Article 23: Remuneration of Members
The Student Association shall provide salary / wages / honorariums to the Board, Executive and Committee members from time to time in accordance with the Bylaws, as outlined in Appendix “A”: Executive Accountability Measures” of the Voting Director’s Accountability Manual.
Salary / Wages set by the Board shall take effect at the beginning of the succeeding Board’s term of office.
Article 24: Constitutional Amending Process
The Constitution may be amended or replaced by a two-thirds majority vote of the Board, provided that the full text of such amendment is available not less than 10 business days prior to the Board meeting at which the amendment is to be considered and the amendment or replacement is included in the respective notice for such meeting.