Subject: Virginia Venture Club at UVA

Description: Constitution for Virginia Venture Club at the University of Virginia
Revised January 22, 2024

Article I: NAME
Virginia Venture Club at the University of Virginia

Article II: PURPOSE
The Virginia Venture Club at the University of Virginia is established with the fundamental aim of fostering an entrepreneurial spirit and culture among students. Our primary mission is to build a dynamic community that embraces the various aspects of entrepreneurship, venture creation, and venture capital.

1. Community Building: We are dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals with a passion for entrepreneurship and related fields can come together. This club serves as a platform for students to connect, share ideas, and cultivate lasting professional relationships.
2. Educational Engagement: The club is committed to providing educational opportunities for its members. This involves organizing talks, workshops, and seminars featuring professionals from industries such as venture capital, investment, and startups. These events are designed to offer insights into the practical aspects of entrepreneurship and to keep members informed about the latest trends and practices in the field.
3. Networking and Professional Development: A key purpose of the Virginia Venture Club is to facilitate networking opportunities with industry professionals and alumni. This not only aids in professional development but also provides members with valuable exposure to real-world experiences and potential career paths in entrepreneurship and venture capital.
4. Innovation and Venture Support: We aim to encourage and assist members in developing their entrepreneurial ventures by connecting the potential resources of Virginia Venture Club. The club will provide resources, guidance, and a nurturing environment for those interested in starting their businesses or exploring the world of venture capital.
5. Flexible Involvement: Recognizing the diverse interests and commitments of our members, the club maintains a flexible approach to participation. Members can engage at their own pace, choosing to attend events and activities that particularly interest them, without the pressure of a large commitment.

In summary, the Virginia Venture Club is not just a club; it's a community dedicated to cultivating entrepreneurial minds, fostering innovative ideas, and connecting future leaders in the realms of entrepreneurship and venture capital.

Article III: MEMBERSHIP
Section 1: Eligibility
Membership in the Virginia Venture Club is primarily targeted towards the students, faculty, staff, and alumni of the University of Virginia, along with their spouses. These members form the core of the club, and their active participation is essential to the club's vibrancy and success.

Section 2: Student Membership
All currently enrolled students at the University of Virginia are eligible to become members of the Virginia Venture Club. Student members are encouraged to participate in club events, take on leadership roles, and contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem at the university.

Section 3: Faculty, Staff, and Alumni Membership
Faculty and staff of the University of Virginia, as well as alumni, are eligible for membership. Their experience and connections are invaluable to the club, and they serve as a bridge between students and the professional world.

Section 4: Spousal Membership
Recognizing the importance of family support in entrepreneurial endeavors, spouses of students, faculty, staff, and alumni are also welcome to join the club. Their participation enriches the community and provides a broader perspective.

Section 5: Professional Membership
To bridge the gap between academia and industry, the Virginia Venture Club extends membership to professionals in the fields of venture capital, investment, and startups. These professionals serve as potential mentors and advisors, offering real-world insight and guidance to club members. Their involvement is on an invitation basis and is subject to the approval of the club's executive committee.

Section 6: Mentorship and Advisory Roles
Professionals who join the club in a mentorship capacity are expected to contribute to the development of our members by sharing their knowledge, providing mentorship, and facilitating networking opportunities. They play a crucial role in helping members understand the practical aspects of entrepreneurship and venture capital.

Section 7: Non-Discrimination Clause
The Virginia Venture Club is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity. Membership is open to all who support the club's purpose, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

In conclusion, the Virginia Venture Club values a diverse membership that contributes to a rich exchange of ideas, experiences, and cultures. At least 51% of the club’s membership must be full-time students, and the club must consist of at least ten student members. The club encourages all students and University affiliates to join, regardless of previous entrepreneurial experience. Through the collective efforts of our members, we aim to create a thriving entrepreneurial community within and beyond the University of Virginia.

Article IV: EXECUTIVE BOARD
Members of the Executive Board must be full-time students at the University. These officers will be entrusted with the responsibility for expenditure and policymaking for the club. There will be four executive officers. This year’s officers are as follows:

The leadership of Virginia Venture Club consists of an executive board and officers. There are three positions on the executive board:

President:
-Serves as the chief executive officer of the club.
-Presides over all meetings and directs the club's activities.
-Represents the club in all interactions with the university administration and external organizations.
-Has the authority to speak on behalf of the club.
-Oversees the implementation of the club's strategic goals and objectives.

Vice President:
-Assists the President in the execution of their duties.
-Assumes the role of President in their absence.
-Coordinates between different committees and ensures the alignment of club activities with its mission.
-Oversees internal operations and assists with event planning.

Secretary:
-Maintains all records of the club, including meeting minutes and membership lists.
-Manages club correspondence and ensures effective communication within the Executive Board.
-Responsible for scheduling meetings and notifying members of upcoming events.
-Keeps all official documents and ensures they are updated and filed properly.

Treasurer:
-Manages the club's finances, including budgeting, accounting, and fundraising activities.
-Keeps accurate records of all financial transactions and presents financial reports at meetings.
-Ensures that all financial obligations are met and that the club remains in good financial standing.
-Guides the Executive Board in making fiscally responsible decisions.

There are three officers:

Public Relation Chair:
- Manages club outreach and advertising with the goal of attracting new members to the club and attendees to large club events through the use of University and online resources.
- Manages the club’s website and social media; designs graphics for club events; contacts external organizations to publicize club events.

Operation chair:
- Organizes internal bounding and social events outside of the formal club meetings to promote club unity, member interaction, and entertainment.
- Manages venue booking, event logistics, etc.

Social chair:
- Outreaches to potential partner organizations, including venture clubs at other university or related clubs at the University of Virginia.
- Outreaches to potential guest speakers.
- Involves a more diverse student body to participate at events.

Article V: ELECTIONS
Section 1
Club members annually elect officers to the board for a term of one calendar year. Elections will be held at the end of the fall semester preceding the calendar year. Candidates must be self-nominated prior to being elected. All candidates must be considered active members of the club and in good standing (attending majority of practices and events, paying dues, etc.).

Section 2
Any officer of the board who is unable to perform the duties required will be asked to resign. The Executive Board will then nominate a club member not currently serving on the Executive Board to fill the vacated position, to be voted on by all active members that are enrolled in full-time study at University of Virginia.

Section 3
All officers are expected to fulfill their obligations to Virginia Venture Club at the University of Virginia in a responsible and honorable manner. Failure to perform in this way will result in impeachment. Any club member may file a grievance with any member of the Executive Board concerning the honor and/or fulfillment of responsibilities of any officer. Should the Executive Board consider the grievance to be of sufficient severity, they may vote to impeach the officer by a simple majority (50%+1). During the impeachment and/or removal processes, the officer in question will be asked to leave the meeting(s) for the discussion and vote. The officer in question will be given the opportunity to defend him or herself before the full Board prior to the discussion of and vote on their removal.

Article VI: MEETINGS
The Virginia Venture Club at the University of Virginia holds regular meetings to ensure the effective management of club activities and facilitate communication among members of the Executive Board.

Article VII: FINANCE
The Virginia Venture Club receives financial support from semesterly dues, donations, fundraising, competition fees, and allocated funds from Student Council. Expenditures of funds include equipment, social events, instructor fees, competition costs, etc.

Article VIII: EXPECTATIONS FOR PERSONAL CONDUCT
Members are expected to conduct themselves in an honorable manner. Misconduct or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. If a club member acts in an inappropriate manner, the president will ask him or her to leave the club. The club must also comply with all Title IX rules and regulations set for the University. The president may consult with the Office of the Dean of Students for guidance in such scenarios.

Article IX: AMENDMENTS AND BY-LAWS
Executive Board members must vote upon amendments to the constitution and the addition of by-laws with at least two-thirds majority. Any changes to the constitution of the Virginia Venture Club must be submitted to Student Council within one week of holding elections or making amendments.