The name of this association shall be Omega Chapter, Epsilon Sigma Phi. It is an affiliate of Epsilon Sigma Phi, the National Honorary Fraternity, Inc.
Epsilon Sigma Phi (ESP) is dedicated to fostering the standards of excellence in the Extension System and developing the Extension profession and professional.
The purpose of the organization includes, but is not limited to, recognizing excellence in the Extension community, providing opportunity for networking, fellowship, and collaborative efforts; fostering leadership development through mentoring Extension professionals in the philosophy and professional practice of Extension education; and facilitating professional development.
Section 1. An Extension professional who has been employed for at least two years as of August 1 of that calendar year (currently employed by UT/TSU Extension or other entity of the Extension System) who has maintained professional standards in programming and leadership. Members continue to provide leadership and excellence in Extension programming throughout their career and during retirement.
Section 2. Annual membership will be for the period from January 1 through December 31.
Section 3. Members who retire may obtain lifetime membership by paying a one-time fee equal to five times the annual dues (state chapter dues plus national dues).
Section 1. The chapter officers shall consist of President, President-elect, Secretary, Treasurer, Regional Vice Presidents and Past President. All officers with the exception of President-elect and Past President will serve two year terms. President-elect will serve one year as President-elect, and then move into the office of President for a two year term; followed by one year as Past President. President-elect will be elected in odd numbered years. Secretary and Treasurer will be elected in even numbered years. Secretary, Treasurer and Regional Vice Presidents may succeed themselves. Executive Board is composed of all Omega Chapter officers.
Section 2. Regional Vice Presidents terms of office will be staggered. Vice Presidents from the Eastern and Specialist regions will be elected in even numbered years. Vice Presidents from the Central and Western regions will be elected in odd numbered years.
Section 3. Terms of office will begin at the close of the ESP national annual meeting.
Section 4. When an officer resigns or leaves the Tennessee Omega Chapter, the President shall appoint an interim officer to serve for the remainder of that office’s term.
The President, with the cooperation of the Executive Board shall appoint the necessary committees to carry out Omega Chapter activities. All persons appointed to committees shall be members in good standing of Omega Chapter. Committees include, but are not limited to, (1) member recruitment and retention; (2) scholarships and recognition; (3) professional development; (4)resource development; (5)public issues; and (6)nominating. The nominating committee will be chaired by either the President-elect or Past President and comprised of the Regional Vice Presidents.
Section 1. The annual state meeting shall be held at a time and place specified by the Executive Board.
Section 2. The Executive Board shall meet a minimum of twice a year or as deemed necessary by the President. Meetings may be conducted by electronic means, telephone or face-to-face. Members present/participating shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all business.
Section 1. Annual dues shall include state chapter dues as determined by the Executive Board and national dues as specified by the National Council.
Section 2. The first year’s dues shall include the annual dues plus an initiation fee set by the National Council.
Bylaws may be amended by two-thirds (2/3) vote of Executive Board members.
Adopted, August 28, 2014