Why is the 2019 Omicron Delta Kappa Conclave being held?
The purpose of this conclave is to consider the proposal, and related documents (Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation and National Bylaws), for the consolidation of the legal entities of the Omicron Delta Kappa Society and the Omicron Delta Kappa Foundation by vote on a resolution. In accordance with current Society Constitution and Bylaws, all circles are hereby called to present one delegate at the conclave for the purposes of discussing and voting on the resolution related to the proposed governance changes.
What will be voted upon at the conclave?
Delegates will vote to suspend the current Society Constitution and Society Bylaws and to adopt Amended and Restated National Bylaws and Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation through a resolution. In addition, delegates will have the opportunity to discuss the revised Omicron Delta Kappa Handbook.
Has O∆K changed its governance structure before?
Yes, since its founding in 1914, there have been a number of governance model changes through the years. This page contains information about the history of O∆K’s governance. A timeline chronicling the changes in previous governance structures may be found here.
What is the rationale for changing the governance structure for Omicron Delta Kappa?
There are several reasons for consideration of the proposal to merge the legal entities of the Omicron Delta Kappa Society and Omicron Delta Kappa Foundation into a single organization. They are primarily for reasons of following best practices in the governance of non-profit organizations, creating greater efficiency, and cost-savings. More information is available is here.
What is the composition of the proposed new board for the O∆K Society and Educational Foundation, Inc.?
The proposed new board will have 28 members including three collegiate members, three faculty/staff members, several appointed officers, and at-large trustees. The membership of the proposed board may be found here.
What are the functions of the proposed new board?
These are the proposed functions for the governing board:
- Determine mission and purpose of overall organization; recruit and engage a competent board.
- Select the president/chief executive officer; support and evaluate the president/chief executive officer.
- Ensure effective planning, legal integrity, and ethical integrity; enhance the organization’s public standing.
- Monitor and strengthen programs and services.
- Ensure adequate financial resources; protect assets and provide financial oversight; oversee audit.
- Elect chair and chair-elect of board.
What are the roles, responsibilities, and requirements of at-large trustees?
One of the primary missions of The Omicron Delta Kappa Society and Educational Foundation, Inc. will be to develop a philanthropic community that supports the leadership programs and capabilities of O∆K and its members. In furtherance of this mission, the organization will accept gifts; manage the investment of endowments; and ensure that contributions are used consistent with donor intent. In doing so, the Society and Educational Foundation will strive to promote, nurture, and expand the culture of support for Omicron Delta Kappa. There are significant financial obligations for the at-large trustees in the new governance model. A complete roles and responsibilities outline is available here.
What is the process by which collegiate members will be elected to the Board of Trustees?
Collegiate members on the Board of Trustees will be elected by the delegates in conjunction with the annual national conference. Details about the responsibilities of student trustees and the elections process are located here.
What is the process by which faculty/staff members will be elected to the Board of Trustees?
Faculty and staff members on the Board of Trustees will be elected by the current sitting faculty advisors and circle coordinators in advance of the conference. Details about the responsibilities of faculty/staff trustees and the elections process are located here.
