The University of Houston Alumni Association seeks to establish a standard structure for all of its constituent associations and area clubs. While some groups follow the standard structure, others may augment the format due to the location and/or size of their chartered group. The structure for most groups is:

1. Officers: Chartered groups typically have a president, vice president, and treasurer. Many groups have decided to add two additional officer positions to their structure; a membership chair and a Web administrator/ communications chair.
2. Meetings: Chartered groups should have regular board and planning meetings. These can take place monthly, quarterly or semi-annually.
3. Events: Chartered groups should have at least two different types of programs or events each year.

The primary responsibility of chartered groups rests with the group's officers. Oftentimes, the success of the group depends on the vision of its officers. To be elected by your group is an honor and a huge responsibility. We recommend that no alumnus serve more than two consecutive years as president. Rotation of officers prevents burnout, and allows for new ideas and promotes greater ownership by alumni. To hold an office within the HAO and its clubs and constituent associations, individuals must be a UH alumnus and hold membership in the University of Houston Alumni Association.

PRESIDENT
The primary function of the President is to lead the overall operations and programs of the alumni group. At the beginning of his/her term, the President should identify the following:

1. the group's goals and objectives for the year;
2. the committee structure; and...
3. the most opportune time to hold board meetings to achieve optimal attendance.

In most constituent associations and area clubs, the president is the make-or-break leader in the organization. It is a very time-consuming post that unquestionably calls for great imagination, vision, initiative, and a keen ability to share and delegate responsibility. This position is the gateway to ensure a successful and productive year. In his or her post, the President should:

• Preside over all board and general meetings
• Work closely with the board to establish and achieve the group's goals
• Encourage membership growth in all activities
• Call board meetings as needed, and execute policies and procedures as directed by the board

VICE PRESIDENT
The role of the Vice President is primarily preparatory. The person in this position should pay particular attention to the inner workings of their constituent/club group to ascertain what to expect when his/her term as President commences. In addition, the Vice President should:

• Perform all duties of the President if he/she is absent or unable to perform his/her duties
• Attend all board and general meetings
• Coordinate and disseminate information about HAO to potential new members
• Ensure that all board members hold membership in HAO

SECRETARY
Much more than a record keeper, the Secretary of the group is also the communicator. To effectively perform this role, he/she must not only prepare the information, but also assist the President in its dissemination to the board, group members and the HAO. The primary duties involved include:

• Update monthly board agendas
• Take board meeting minutes
• Update board members' contact information for fellow members and the HAO office personnel

TREASURER
Like the Secretary, the Treasurer is a communicator as well. To effectively perform this role, he/she should not only prepare the information, but must also assist the President in its dissemination to the board, group members, and the HAO. The primary duties involved include monthly maintenance of financial reports and budget updates for activities and events. The Treasurer is also responsible for the collection and deposit of monies generated by any special event and/or fundraiser.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS
There are infinite roles that the Board of Directors of a chartered group can play. However, the most important one is in preparing for an officer position. HAO highly recommends that the leadership positions be awarded to those already on the board. In addition, board members should support and assist the officers whenever needed by:

• Providing input and feedback on goals, objectives, and planning
• Chairing or serving on committees to help plan and implement program
• Assisting in the solicitation of new members and new leadership

ALUMNI COUNCIL MEMBER
Constituent Associations and Area Clubs have an additional board position designated to serve on the HAO Alumni Council. The primary role this person plays is that of a liaison. After each council meeting, they are asked to provide a report about HAO board activities. Alumni Council members should also:

• Chair or serve on at least one HAO committee
• Provide input to the alumni group's nominating committee

CONSTITUENT ASSOCIATION & AREA CLUB HAO BOARD POSITION
Unlike the area clubs, the constituent associations have an HAO board position designated to serve on the HAO Board of Directors. By providing a communication report about HAO board activities, the primary role that this person plays is that of liaison to the HAO board and its constituencies. However, the Constituent Association representative should also:

• Chair or serve on at least one HAO committee
• Chair the Presidents' Roundtables