Express Network By Laws

2010-2011
EXPRESS NETWORK
EXECUTIVE BOARD GUIDE,
EXPRESS NETWORK BYLAWS,
RULES, POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

ABWA Mission Statement
The mission of the American Business Women‘s Association
is to bring together businesswomen of diverse occupations
and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow
personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking
support and national recognition.

The Association’s mission is a brief description of ABWA’s fundamental purpose,
the reason we continue to exist. ABWA’s mission statement is universal and all chartered ABWA teams and members
share the same mission.

American Business Women‘s Association
9100 Ward Parkway, P.O. Box 8728
Kansas City, MO 64114-0728
(816) 361-6621

www.abwa.org
E-mail: abwa@abwa.org

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Message to Executive Board (Express Network Officers) .......................................... 3
2010-2011 Annual Theme ............................................................................................... 3
Important Dates to Remember ....................................................................................... 4
ABWA EXPRESS NETWORK BYLAWS
 President: Position Overview.................................................................................. 7
 President - Elect : Position Overview ...................................................................... 9
 Vice President of Communications: Position Overview ................................... 10
 Vice President of Finance: Position Overview .................................................... 11
 Vice President of Marketing/Public Relations: Position Overview ................ 12
 Vice President of Programming: Position Overview ......................................... 13
EXPRESS NETWORK STANDING RULES, POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Annual Theme ................................................................................................................ 16
Best Practices Award ..................................................................................................... 16
Express Network Woman of the Year Recognition .................................................. 16
Express Network Standing Rules ................................................................................ 17
Deactivations and Suspension of Chartered Express Networks ............................ 17
Federal Employer Identification Number and Tax Exemption Requirements...... 19
Hand of Friendship—Inner Circle .............................................................................. 18
Logos, Registered Trademarks, and Intellectual Property ....................................... 19
Mailing List .................................................................................................................... 20
Mission Statement for ABWA ..................................................................................... 20
National Officer Nominating Procedure .................................................................... 20
New Member Ceremony ............................................................................................... 21
Newsletter Award, Criteria, Submission, Judging .................................................... 21
Officer Election Procedures for Express Networks ................................................... 22
Ratification of President-Elect for Transition to President ...................................... 26
Officer Transition Procedures for Express Networks ............................................... 27
Professional Development Recognition.......................................................................28
 Apex Award ………………..………………………………………………………28
 Top Ten Business Women of ABWA .....................................................................29
Proud Code of Conduct for ABWA ........................................................................... 30
Special Recognition for Deserving Members ............................................................30
Vision Statement for Your Express Network ............................................................. 30
ASSOCIATION AND FOUNDATION FUND RESOURCES
ABW Foundation ........................................................................................................... 31
Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund .......................................................... 31

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© 2010 ABWA Management LLC (rev. 11:03 AM 7/15/2010)
May Be Reprinted For ABWA Chapter/Network Use Only

MESSAGE TO EXPRESS NETWORK OFFICERS
This is the official ABWA Express Network Executive Board Guide, Express Network Bylaws, and rules, poli-
cies and procedures, which present network management information for ABWA officers and committee
chairs. If you have a question about officer responsibilities or network procedures, this guide should be your
first resource.

The team at ABWA National is committed to understanding members‘ needs and supplying quality products
and services. Our goal is to support members serving in leadership positions so that they can lead their teams
more effectively and efficiently. If you have questions about any aspect of network management, contact us
at webmail@abwa.org.

ANNUAL THEME
“Leading With Vision”

Each year, a theme is chosen to represent the efforts of the Association. ABWA‘s annual theme coincides with
the award year (Aug. 1 to July 31), enabling officers to plan Express Network events and materials around it.
The theme is intended to provide a focus point each year for the chapter, network or council. The theme may
be used in all communication vehicles alongside ABWA‘s trademarked logo(s).

The kaleidoscope was chosen as our Leading with Vision icon because it uses ―mirrors and colored glass
shapes working together to create beautiful, shifting symmetrical patterns‖ much like ABWA‘s National
Team, members, chapters, networks and councils work in unison for the continued success and perpetuation
of the American Business Women‘s Association.

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IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
2010-2011 AWARD YEAR - AUGUST 1, 2010—JULY 31, 2011

Aug. 15, 2010 Upload team‘s vision statement to the network‘s team board header located in ABWA‘s
Women‘s Instructional Network (WIN)

Aug. 15, 2010 President assigns Executive Board and committee chairs in the WIN team roster
Sept.-Nov. 2010 All networks and members participate in nationally sponsored Fall– New Membership
Recruitment Campaign

Sept.–Nov. 2010 Networks and members may opt to participate in the Communicate, Motivate and
Reactivate Campaign designed to win back former ABWA members.

Sept. 22, 2010 American Business Women’s Day
The first American Business Women‘s Day (ABW Day) was celebrated in 1982. It is a na-
tional day for Americans to recognize the achievements of not only ABWA members but
also the millions of employed women in the U.S. In 1983 and 1986, joint congressional
resolutions were passed designating a national observance of Sept. 22 as American Busi-
ness Women‘s Day. Following each resolution, President Ronald Reagan issued a presi-
dential proclamation. Today, it is observed on Sept. 22, the anniversary of ABWA‘s
founding.
October 28-30, 2010
ABWA’s National Women’s Leadership Conference in Chattanooga , Tn

December 15, 2010
IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax for small tax-
exempt groups whose gross receipts are $25,000 or less) is due. The IRS‘s filing deadline
for Chapters/Express Networks is four and one-half months after the Chapter/Express
Network Award-year end.
December 30, 2010
To award a ―Chapter/Network‖ Special Scholarship in May 2011, the Express Network
must submit the money and selection criteria to SBMEF on or before December 30, 2010.

January 1, 2011 Council Officer Election Report and administrative fee are due at National

January 31, 2011
To award a ―Chapter/Network‖ Special Scholarship in July 2011, the Express Network
must submit the money and selection criteria to SBMEF on or before January 31, 2011.

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March 1, 2011 Nomination for National Office and Acceptance of nomination forms due to Na-
tional

March—May 2011 Annual Spring New Membership Recruitment Campaign period
March—May 2011 Express Networks and members may opt to participate in the Communicate,
Motivate and Reactivate Campaign designed to win back former ABWA members.

May 2011 Universal Chapter/Express Network Officer Election Month

May 15, 2011 2012 Top Ten Business Women of ABWA applications due to National

May 15, 2011 Councils‘ IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard, Return of Organization Exempt From Income
Tax for small tax-exempt groups whose gross receipts are $25,000 or less) is due.
The IRS‘s filing deadline for councils is four and one-half months after the Council-
year end.

June 1, 2011: This is the last day that SBMEF contributions for the 2010-2011 Award Year and ap-
plications for Scholarship Grant Requests and/or Business Skills Tuition Reim-
bursement can be submitted.

June– July 2011 Planning period for newly elected Executive Board and committee chairs

June 30, 2011 Administrative fee, names of new officers and committee chairs due to National

July 31, 2011 Best Practices Submissions due to ABWA National

July 31, 2011 Standing Committee Report for committee chair appointments reported to National

2011 ABWA DISTRICT CONFERENCE LOCATIONS (To be announced at a later date)
District Conference Overview
The principal purpose of the district conferences is to bring concentrated leadership training to members who are
currently or planning to serve in a leadership role for their ABWA Chapter/Express Network. These events also pro-
vide professional development programming designed to increase members‘ business acumen. The conference ex-
perience allows similarly minded businesswomen, many of whom are from the surrounding geographical area, to
engage one another in a variety of topics.
2011 ABWA NATIONAL WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
September 22-24, 2011— Irving, Texas
National Women’s Leadership Conference Overview
The original purpose of ABWA's national conference was to serve as a site for the Association's Annual Meeting and
the election of national officers. However, today, the National Women‘s Leadership Conference is a three day concen-
trated agenda focused on professional development, recognition of individuals and ABWA teams, networking, and a
brief respite for workingwomen. Members and non-members alike may attend this event.

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EXPRESS NETWORK® BYLAWS
By accepting charters from the Association, all Express Networks agree to comply with the current National
Bylaws, Express Network Bylaws, rules, procedures and policies of ABWA.

Express Network Bylaws are STANDARD for all Express Networks with the exception of the articles and sec-
tions indicated below. At a new Express Network installation meeting, a first regular Express Network meet-
ing, or an Express Network consolidation meeting, by the majority vote of the active membership of record,
every Express Network decides the following:

ARTICLE I: Name of the Express Network, city and state.
ARTICLE III, Section 2: Amount of dues and when payable.
ARTICLE VI, Section 1: Day of the month of the regular Express Network meeting.

Provisions for amending these articles and sections, once approved, are specified in Article VIII.

For situations not covered in the bylaws, rules, procedures and policies of the Association, standing rules
may be drafted by an Express Network.

ARTICLE I. NAME
The name of this Express Network shall be:

EXPRESS NETWORK: _________________________________
CITY:________________________________________________
STATE: ______________________________________________

ARTICLE II. EXPRESS NETWORK GOALS
The goals of Express Networks are to provide powerful educational and/or motivational programs that en-
able women to grow professionally and personally and to offer a strong network of women business leaders
in the local community.

ARTICLE III. MEMBERS
Section 1. Membership is a valued privilege. Candidates for membership in this Express Network shall meet
the requirements set forth in the National Bylaws. A member may be affiliated with more than one local
league (Chapter or Express Network).

Section 2. The monthly dues of this Express Network shall be $____ per month, payable in advance
__________________ (semi-annually or annually) to the vice president of finance. Any member who shall not
pay her national membership dues upon her renewal date shall at such time be considered an inactive mem-
ber. An inactive member shall not be eligible to participate in the privileges and benefits of the Association,
nor in any of the activities of its local leagues. Failure to pay local Express Network dues will result in her in-
eligibility to participate in any of the activities of the Express Network.

Section 3. Only members in good standing locally and nationally shall be eligible to vote and/or participate
in any Express Network activity.

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ARTICLE IV. EXECUTIVE BOARD
Section 1. The Executive Board shall consist of the Express Network officers. The president shall act as chair
of the Executive Board.

Section 2. The Executive Board shall have general supervision of the affairs of the Express Network, set the
time and place of Executive Board meetings, make recommendations to the membership and perform such
other duties as specified in these bylaws. The board shall constitute authority in deciding matters of policy
not otherwise decreed. The majority of the Executive Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all
business at Executive Board meetings.

ARTICLE V. OFFICERS
Section 1. The officers shall be president, president-elect, vice president of finance, vice president of commu-
nications, vice president of marketing/public relations, vice president of programming and any other officers
deemed necessary to achieve the goals of the Express Networks and should be primary members of the Ex-
press Network.

Section 2. A nominating committee, consisting of three members, shall be elected by the membership no later
than March 31, and an auditing committee, consisting of two or more members, shall be appointed by the
president prior to the July meeting. Members of the Nominating Committee should be primary members of
the Express Network.

Section 3. All officers shall be elected in May by secret ballot to serve for one year or until their successors are
elected. Their term of office shall begin August 1. A majority of the members voting shall elect. No member
shall serve more than two consecutive full terms in the same office.

Section 4. With the exception of the office of president, a vacancy in any office shall be filled by a majority
vote of the Executive Board. Should the office of president be vacated, the president-elect shall serve as presi-
dent through that term of office. In the event the president-elect cannot serve as president, the Executive
Board shall appoint a member to serve as president until her successor takes office.

Section 5. Executive Board Accountabilities:

PRESIDENT: POSITION OVERVIEW
The President is the authorized volunteer leader of the network and thus serves as the team‘s primary liaison,
responsible for facilitating communication between National and to the members of her network.

Essential Requirements
The president:
 Must be an active member in good standing (nationally and with her network), and maintain her primary
affiliation with the network for which she serves her elected office.
 If she cannot maintain her membership status, she must resign her position immediately.
 Maintains compliance with ABWA‘s Proud Code of Conduct, the National and Express Network Bylaws,
rules, policies, procedures, and ABWA brand.
 Is responsible for ensuring that all Executive Board members and Committee Chairs maintain an active
membership (in good standing) status throughout their term.
 Must be able to interpret, negotiate and execute contracts on behalf of her network.

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 Must be willing to countersign checks on behalf of the network.
 Must be willing to attend at least one nationally sponsored event (district or national conference) during
her term.
 Is her network‘s primary contact (touch point) throughout her presidential term.

Accountabilities/Responsibilities Related to the Network’s Annual Planning
 Leads Executive Board and the network in striving for Best Practices.
 Evaluates network‘s performance (utilizing the Member Interest Survey and the Best Practices Assess-
ment, Management Resources Materials (MRP) and other training, tools and resources located in the
Women‘s Instructional Network.
 Collaborates with the Executive Board to develop a team charter, vision statement, business plan and
budget for the network that best serves the needs of the membership AND, within the context of ABWA‘s
mission.
 Responsible for assigning members of the Executive Board to serve as project leaders for committees.
 Responsible for appointing members to serve as committee chairs (except for nominating committee).
 Responsible for reviewing, revising and presenting proposed Standing Rules to the membership for a vote.
Note: President can opt to appoint a committee to perform this function.
 Responsible for monitoring the network‘s performance against planned goals (e.g., revenue vs. expenses,
net membership vs. new members recruited, business-market relevant programming, etc.).
 Responsible for requesting login password for SBMEF from fund administrator (www.sbmef.org).
 Supports president–elect in launching two membership recruitment events in the Award year—in order
to maintain a minimum of thirty active members on the network‘s roster.
 Makes certain that the Vice President of Finance files the network‘s tax return with the Internal Revenue
Service (IRS) on or before the posted deadline, December 15, 2010.

Accountabilities/Responsibilities Related to the Women’s Instructional Network
 Uploads network‘s vision statement to their team board header located in the Women‘s Instructional Net-
work (WIN) by August 15.
 In the WIN team roster, the president assigns position titles to members by August 15.
 Attends nationally sponsored WIN webinars to keep apprized of tools and functionality updates.
 Is an active WIN user, proficient in performing basic WIN functions (knowledge search, sending an email,
posting a note, uploading a document to team board, and team library, etc.)
 Posts network‘s Standing Rules in the team‘s WIN library.

Accountabilities/Responsibilities Related to Monthly Network Management
 Keeps apprized of nationally sponsored initiatives and communicates information to membership.
 Prepares agendas for monthly network and Executive Board meetings.
 Presides at all official meetings with the Executive Board and network.
 Reports any changes in officers to National and edits WIN team roster to reflect the changes reported.
 Reports deceased members to National.
 Greets and welcomes guests, vendors, and sponsors.
Serves as
the primary
“face” of
the Express
Network

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PRESIDENT-ELECT: POSITION OVERVIEW
The president-elect:
 Maintains compliance with ABWA‘s Proud Code of Conduct, the National and Express Network By-
laws, rules, policies, procedures, and ABWA brand.
 Must be willing to attend at least one nationally sponsored event (district and/or national conference)
during her term.
 Shall at the end of her one year term as president-elect, become president of the network unless, a major-
ity of members voting at the time of the regular Express Network Meeting, fail to approve her advance-
ment to the office as president.
 Must be willing to assume all duties and responsibilities of the president due to resignation, absence or
when called upon to do so.

Accountabilities/Responsibilities Related to Planning
 Supports president in striving for Best Practices
budget for the network that best serves the needs of the membership AND, within the context of
ABWA‘s mission.
 Serves as project manager for the membership recruitment campaigns/committee.
 Responsible for overseeing project committees as assigned by the president.
 Supports the VP of Finance in completing and filing the network‘s tax return with the Internal
Revenue Service (IRS) before the posted deadline, December 15, 2010

 Active WIN user, proficient in performing basic WIN functions (knowledge search, sending an email,
posting a note, uploading a document to team board, and team library, etc.)

 Coordinate with venue in reserving meeting space including reservations, AV, room set-up, F&B (food
and beverage).
 Responsible for greeting and introducing prospective members, sponsors and guests.
 Schedules, plans and facilitates orientation sessions for new members throughout the year.
 Shall countersign checks in the absence of president or vice president of finance.

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 In the event that a member does not pay her local and/or national dues, she will notify the member in writ-
ing that she will be removed from the team’s roster; also provides the secretary, membership chair and
National with the names of any such network members.

VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS: POSITION OVERVIEW
This position serves as the primary liaison in facilitating effective internal communication for the Express
Network.

The vice president of communications:
 Must be willing to attend in at least one nationally sponsored event (district and/or national
conference) during her term.
 May represent her network in district newsletter competition.

ABWA‘s mission.
 Develops editorial calendar and content for network‘s monthly newsletter publication.
 Calendar should include time lines for content submission, writing, reviewing, editing and
production.
 Oversees project committee(s) as assigned by the president.

posting a note, uploading a document to team board, and team library, etc.).
 Post board action items in the network‘s WIN team library.
 Uploads monthly newsletter in WIN team library.

 Records the distributes minutes of executive board meeting.
 Emails a copy to National, the president and to the VP of Finance to be retained with official network
records.
 Manages correspondence (non-PR related) on an as needed basis.
 Solicits new information for stories/features/spotlights from membership at each monthly meeting.
 Designs and uploads network newsletter to WIN.

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VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE: POSITION OVERVIEW
The VP of Finance is responsible for managing all aspects of the network’s finances. The member serving in
this position is the custodian of the network’s financial records. She is responsible for monitoring cash flow,
A/R, A/P, issuing receipts, reconciling the chapter’s bank account and for producing a monthly financial re-
port.

The vice president of finance:

ABWA‘s mission.
 Prepares and submits a formal budget to the Executive Board.
 Establishes and documents policies and processes for retaining official chapter records.
 Responsible for overseeing project committees as assigned by the president.
 Responsible for completing and filing the network‘s tax return with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
before the posted deadline, December 15, 2010.

 Posts budget related items in the network‘s team board in the Women‘s Instructional Network.

 Administers the network‘s bank and checking accounts, keeps itemized records (income and expenses) in
a permanent file. Note: All network financial records should be retained for a period of seven years in the event of
an IRS audit.
 Disburses money as approved by the network. All disbursements shall be made by check, countersigned
by the president, or in her absence, the vice president.
 Collects money for dues, meal functions, etc. and writes receipts.

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 Includes promotions/feature stories about nationally sponsored events including district/national
conference, Women‘s Instructional Network, etc. in newsletter publications.
 Notifies prospective members about upcoming network events/meetings.

VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING/PUBLIC RELATIONS: POSITION OVER-
VIEW
The vice president of marketing/public relations:
 Assists the president-elect and communications vice president in performing their duties.

budget for your network that best serves the needs of the membership AND, within the context of
ABWA‘s mission.
 Develops a marketing and promotions plan (PRSA, press releases, FB and other social media sites) that
will increase the visibility of the network among businesses, community leaders and non-members by
highlighting network events, initiatives (new member recruitment campaign, speakers, ABW Day,
etc.).

 Uploads news items to the network‘s WIN team board.

 Serves as a greeter and hostess at network meetings and events.
 Is prepared to shares progress on initiatives related to publicity, promotional and marketing initiatives
with the network‘s Executive Board and membership upon request from the president.

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VICE PRESIDENT OF PROGRAMMING: POSITION OVERVIEW
The vice president of programming:

 Collaborates with the Executive Board to develop a team charter, vision statement, business plan and budget
for your network that best serves the needs of the membership AND, within the context of ABWA‘s
mission.
 Develops a program plan and schedule of events based upon the results of the members interest sur-
vey, budget, speaker availability and the network calendar of events.


 Negotiates and secures subject matter experts (speakers, business women, community leaders) for
network meetings within the budgetary guidelines.
 Collaborates with speaker to determine room set-up, AV requirements, materials needed, etc. and in-
forms Executive Board.
 Send information to the presenter about the date, time, venue, and audience that she/he will be ad-
dressing.
 Collects speaker bio, pictures, topic and program overview and submits to vice president of communica-
tion for publication in the network newsletter and to the vice president of marketing and public relations
for publicity.
 Confirms with speaker that she will be in attendance 2-weeks in advance of meeting date.
 Reviews and finalizes speaker arrangements 1-week in advance of meeting date.
 Introduces speaker at the event.

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 Sends thank you to speaker after the event.

ARTICLE VI. MEETINGS
Section 1. Regular meetings are the normal periodic gatherings of the Express Network, typically held at
regular intervals. Special meetings are specific meetings convened only to consider one or more items of busi-
ness specified in the notice of the meeting.

Section 2. Regular meetings shall be the _____________ (day of the month), and shall usually consist of food,
program or speakers, networking and a business meeting. Members shall be notified in advance of the time,
place and duration of each Express Network meeting.

Section 3. Special meetings may be called by the president or by the Executive Board and shall be called upon
the written request of one-third (1/3) of all members in good standing of the Express Network. The purpose
of the meeting shall be stated in the call. Except in case of emergency, at least three days‘ notice shall be
given.

Section 4. The quorum of the Express Network shall not be less than one-third (1/3) of the Express Network
membership. A quorum must be present for the valid transaction of Express Network business. The right to
vote is limited to members in good standing who are present at the time a vote is taken at a meeting.

ARTICLE VII. COMMITTEES
Section 1. Two ad hoc committees shall be the Auditing Committee and the Nominating Committee. The Ex-
press Network may create any other standing or ad hoc committees deemed necessary to achieve its goals.
Members of the Nominating Committee must be primary members of the Express Network.
Section 2. Duties:

The AUDITING COMMITTEE:
1. Shall be appointed by the president.
2. Shall audit the vice president of finance‘s accounts annually by July 31, upon a vacancy of the office,
or upon demand of the membership or Executive Board.

The NOMINATING COMMITTEE:
1. Shall be elected by members by March 31.
2. Shall nominate one or more candidates for each office to be filled and shall present the slate of
candidates to the membership by the May meeting.

ARTICLE VIII. AMENDMENTS
All proposed amendments to these bylaws shall be approved by ABWA National before being put to a vote.
Such amendments shall not conflict with the National Bylaws of the Association. Before becoming effective,
proposed amendments shall also require the majority vote of the entire active membership of record of the
Express Network. Articles permissible to amend in every Express Network are:
 Article I - Name of the Express Network, city and state.
 Article III, Section 2 - amount of dues and when payable.
 Article VI, Section 2 - day of the month of the regular Express Network meeting.

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No other articles to these bylaws may be amended except by ABWA National, which reserves the right to do
so at its discretion.

ARTICLE IX. STATUS
Section 1. The Express Network is organized as not-for-profit and no part of the net earnings shall inure to
the benefit of any member(s). The Express Network shall not engage in a regular business of the kind ordi-
narily carried on for profit.

Section 2. If deactivation of this Express Network should occur by vote of the membership, written notice
shall be provided to ABWA National by the current Executive Board, and the Express Network charter re-
turned. All funds remaining in the treasury, after payments of all debts, shall be contributed to the American
Business Women‘s Foundation and/or the Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund (tax exempt organi-
zations to which contributions are deductible under Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code), as shall be
specified by the Executive Board of the Express Network.

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EXPRESS NETWORK RULES, POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
ANNUAL THEME FOR 2010-2011
Each year, a theme is chosen to represent the efforts of the Association.
ABWA‘s annual theme coincides with the award year (Aug. 1 to July
31), enabling officers to plan Express Network events and materials
around it. The theme is intended to provide a focus point each year.
The theme can be used in network newsletters alongside ABWA‘s
trademarked logo(s).

BEST PRACTICES AWARD
One of ABWA‘s most prestigious awards is the Best Practices Award recognizing teams for
their excellence in chapter management. By achieving Best Practices, Express Networks en-
sure the future of their team by focusing on the elements that create a strong and vital Express
Network.

ABWA recognizes Chapters/Express Networks for a variety of management practices that
set the standard of excellence for the Association. ABWA National has defined three levels of Best Practices
for ABWA Chapters/Express Networks.

Chapters and Express Networks receiving all levels of Best Practices awards will be posted on the National
Web site for one Award Year and will be recognized at the annual national conference. Additionally, those
Chapters/Express Networks that qualify for Level One Best Practices will receive the official ABWA Seal of
Approval in recognition of Best Practices in group management and will be authorized to display the seal on
their Web sites and Chapter/Express Network materials for the period of one year.

Eligibility
The criteria for this award must be completed between Aug. 1, 2010, and July 31, 2011. If awards criteria re-
quire attendance or participation at a nationally sponsored event, the member must represent only the net-
work with which she has her primary affiliation and must have been chartered for at least one year.

To qualify for any level of the Best Practices Awards, the network‘s official submission must be mailed to
ABWA National by July 31, 2011. Official submission binders and tabs can be purchased in ABWA‘s online
store and at district conferences.

Note: Members can learn more about Best Practices by attending one of the 2011 District Conferences or by
going to the National Library located in the Women’s Instructional Network.

EXPRESS NETWORK WOMAN OF THE YEAR RECOGNITION
Each year networks emphasize the outstanding achievements and contributions members
make by selecting a Express Network Woman of the Year, according to criteria set by each indi-
vidual network. Suggestions on developing your Express Network‘s Woman of the Year crite-
ria and recognition can be found in the Women‘s Instructional Network.

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EXPRESS NETWORK ST A N D I N G RU L E S
Express Network standing rules are designed to cover situations not written in the bylaws, rules, or proce-
dures and policies established by the Association. Express Network standing rules cannot conflict with the
National, Express Network or Council Bylaws, and are not bylaw amendments.

Each Express Network should develop a list of standing rules covering issues relating to that individual net-
work. Standing rules are approved by a majority vote of the membership at a business meeting and are re-
viewed annually. Although rules may be reviewed at any time, it may be convenient to do so after May elec-
tions, during the Executive Board‘s planning process. The newly elected president can appoint a committee to
review the rules and make recommendations if she so chooses.

Outdated rules should be rescinded or updated. Changes or revisions to standing rules require majority ap-
proval by the membership at a network meeting. Examples of Standing Rules are:
1. The Express Network Standing Rules will be approved by the membership at the
____________________ monthly meeting. They will be distributed to the membership and to all new
member affiliates.
2. The members of the network will abide by the ABWA Proud Code of Conduct and will print it in
each issue of the Express Network newsletter.
3. The Express Network will pay for up to five district conference registration fees and one National
Women‘s Leadership Conference registration fee for elected officers and two chairs to attend and par-
ticipate in ABWA conference training.
4. Annually, the network membership will decide prior to the meeting to pay full registration fees for
members in good standing to attend the district conferences and/or national conference.
5. The Executive Board may approve bills up to $ _____ without the approval of the membership.
6. The Express Network will make a $500 contribution to SBMEF for Business Skills Tuition Reimburse-
ment.
7. The Express Network will make a $100 contribution to the ABW Foundation.
8. The Express Network will pay each member‘s annual $15 WIN Technology Fee.

DEACTIVATIONS AND SUSPENSIONS
Suspension of the Express Network
Express Network Bylaws stipulate that all networks must conduct the election of officers in May of each year.
Election results are to be reported to ABWA National no later than June 30, in addition to the administrative
fee for Express Networks, which covers the annual costs for the network‘s liability insurance coverage.

An Express Network will be placed on suspension if any one or all these conditions apply:

1. Doesn‘t conduct an election for the network‘s Executive Board officers by June 30th;
2. Doesn‘t submit a slate of elected officers to ABWA National on or before June 30th;
3. The Express Network‘s slate of officers are not in good standing (have not paid their national dues);
4. Member(s) of the network‘s Executive Board, Committees, etc. become inactive (have not paid their na-
tional dues);
5. The Express Network doesn‘t pay the $100 Administrative Fee to ABWA National on or before June
30th;
6. The Express Network is not in compliance with the use of ABWA‘s official trademarks. (Note: More
information on ABWA’s official trademarks can be found in the Women’s Instructional Network/National Li-
brary).

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If a network is placed on suspension, the Express Network will be temporarily suspended from participating in
all nationally sponsored initiatives (e.g., Top Ten Business Women of ABWA, Best Practices,
Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund, candidate for national office, etc.) until all conditions have been
met. If a suspended Express Network fails in a second consecutive year to fulfill the above requirements, its
charter will be terminated and the Express Network will be deactivated.

Deactivation of an Express Network
Deactivation may occur when a network dissolves or disbands. In some instances, two or more healthy Ex-
press Networks may relinquish their original charters to form under a new stronger network. This procedure
is categorized as a combination network. In all cases, deactivation requires a majority vote by the primary
members (members in good standing) of the Express Network.

Following the vote to deactivate, the Executive Board is responsible for:
1. Notifying ABWA National in writing and returning the Express Network charter, if possible.
(Combining Express Networks must notify ABWA National in this manner as well);
2. Notify the IRS that the Express Network is no longer active;
3. Paying any remaining bills;
4. Disseminating remaining funds. The balance of its funds should be donated to the American Business
Women‘s Foundation or the Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund. (If the Express Network is
deactivating to combine with another Express Network, after its bills are paid, the funds in its
treasury can be transferred to the new network or donated to the ABW Foundation or SBMEF).

After ABWA National is notified that an Express Network has voted to deactivate, each member will revert
to a National Member without a local league affiliation status with the Association. Members will maintain
their national membership privileges and may renew their membership at any time.

DEDUCTIBILITY OF DUES
Dues may be tax deductible if the purpose of belonging to an organization is to promote your own or your em-
ployer‘s business. Each member should consult her tax advisor to determine if her dues are tax-deductible.

DISCRIMINATION
The Association does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orienta-
tion, disability, employment status, job title or industry.

EXECUTIVE BOARD
The Executive Board, comprised of the elected officers, has general supervision of the affairs of the Express
Network, sets the time and place of Executive Board meetings, makes recommendations to the network
membership and performs such other duties as specified in the Express Network Bylaws and Standing Rules.
The president acts as chair of the Executive Board. The Executive Board, led by the president, is responsible for
goal-setting and planning for the upcoming year. One of the Executive Board‘s primary objectives should be
to minimize the amount of ―business‖ reporting and planning during the monthly meetings.

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FEDERAL EMPLOYER IDENTIFICATION NUMBER AND TAX EXEMPTION REQUIREMENTS
Each Express Network is responsible for obtaining a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN), and
tax exempt Letter of Determination. Filing forms and further information can be found in the National
Library located in the Women‘s Instructional Network or at the Internal Revenue Site, at www.irs.gov.
It is recommended that the Express Network send a copy of its EIN and Letter of Determination docu-
mentation to ABWA National so that these can be kept in the network‘s permanent physical file.

FINANCES
Each local Express Network of the American Business Women‘s Association is an autonomous business
unit and thus is responsible for controlling its overall operations, including its own financial operations.
Neither the Association nor any agent or representative of the Association shall be liable or responsible
for financial obligations of ABWA Chapters/Express Networks/Councils or individual members
incurred without the specific written authorization of the ABWA National Board of Directors and ABWA
National in advance of any expenditures.

FORMATIONS (TEAMS THAT ARE IN THE PROCESS OF FORMING A NEW CHAPTER)
All formation projects must be approved by ABWA National in advance of starting. Members interested
in learning more about starting a new Chapter or Express Network in your community can contact
ABWA National at webmail@abwa.org or by calling 816-361-6621.

HAND OF FRIENDSHIP PROGRAM - INNER CIRCLE RECOGNITON
Special recognition and exclusive awards are earned by ABWA members who have shown their active
desire to see the American Business Women‘s Association grow. When a member has sponsored two
new members, she earns the Friendship Star guard, which attaches to her ABWA pin. After sponsoring six
members, she receives ABWA‘s Friendship lapel pin. When a member has sponsored 11 new members,
she enters the select Inner Circle of the Association and receives the gold Inner Circle charm and bracelet.
As an Inner Circle member, she also receives special recognition at district and national conferences. Af-
ter qualifying for membership in Inner Circle, members may earn higher Friendship Star charms as they
continue to sponsor other businesswomen in the Association. These higher awards are as follows:
# Members Recruited Award Level Ribbon Color
22 Emerald Star green
33 Golden Sapphire Star gold
44 Blue Sapphire Star blue
55 Garnet Star red
66 Amethyst Star lavender
77 Pearl Star pink
88 Diamond Star purple

LOGOS, REGISTERED TRADEMARKS AND INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Trademarks are symbols that convey information to the public regarding the source, sponsorship and/or
affiliation of products and services. Registered trademarks are owned and legally protected against unau-
thorized use under a system of state, federal and international laws. The Association‘s name and logos are
registered trademarks and, as such, may be displayed only on stationery, booklets, newsletters, Web sites
and other items pertinent to ABWA Chapter use in accordance with the guidelines set forth in the Brand
Standards Guidelines. Use of ABWA registered trademarks shall create no rights for users to the marks or
their use beyond those stated above. Logos shall remain at all times the sole and exclusive property of
ABWA Management LLC. ABWA logo and branding guidelines must be followed in all instances of
ABWA logo and trademark usage. These Brand Standards Guidelines along with JPEG images of ABWA
logos are available in the Women‘s Instructional Network.
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MAILING LIST
Use by ABWA National
The ABWA membership list is not generally rented for commercial purposes. Permission to mail or solicit
by phone to the membership is occasionally granted to those companies chosen to provide special Associa-
tion services to the entire membership, such as insurance, financial and travel services. Members may re-
quest that their names not be shared with anyone outside the Association. In these instances, the only
mailing the member receive is Associated related (Women in Business® magazine and official ABWA
Association correspondence). The majority of communication to the members will be delivered via email
and the Women‘s Instructional Network in the National News and on the National and District Team
boards however in some instances, the information will be sent directly to the Express Network president
via mail or email.

The names of former members may be shared with Express Networks focused on winning back former
ABWA members. This new campaign titled, Communicate, Motivate, Reactivate will coincide with the
two traditional campaign periods March—May and September—November.

Not Acceptable Use of Members’ Names by the Express Network
Members names and contact information may not be used by ABWA Express Networks:
1. To promote a member‘s personal business.
2. To distribute raffle tickets.
3. For fundraising requests.
4. To publicize activities/events that are in direct conflict or in competition with ABWA locally or Na-
tionally.
* The Express Network must comply with Members who request that their personal info and/or contact information NOT be
shared without their written consent.

MEMBERSHIP RECORDS
ABWA National maintains the national membership list of the Association, primary Chapter, Express
Network and Council affiliation. The network‘s Executive Board should encourage members regularly to
update their personal member record (change in address, phone number, email, etc.) by logging on to
Member Login section at www.abwa.org, located on the left-hand side of the screen and click on the
―Update your member record.‖

MISSION STATEMENT FOR THE AMERICAN BUSINESS WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION
The mission of the American Business Women‘s Association is to bring together businesswomen of di-
verse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and others grow personally
and professionally through leadership, education, networking support and national recognition.

NATIONAL OFFICER NOMINATING PROCEDURES
As referenced in Article X, Section 2, of the National Bylaws, an Express Network may nominate one of its
primary membership as a candidate for the National Board of Directors. The procedure for nomination
will be posted in the National Library/Women‘s Instructional Network/National Officer Nominating
Procedures. A member interested in this opportunity should contact or e-mail ABWA National at
webmail@abwa.org.
 Materials will be sent to members who expressed an interest in being elected to the National
Board of Directors.
 The candidate must be nominated at an Express Network meeting by majority vote of the net-
work‘s members present in good standing.
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(For national officer candidate eligibility requirements, see National Bylaws, Article X, Section 2).
 The candidate must return her completed nomination and acceptance of nomination form and all
additional materials by March 1 of the year of the Annual Meeting in which the election will be
held for her nomination.
 Once the nomination has been approved by the National Nominating Committee, the nominee is
an official candidate.
 An Express Network must be willing to commit to support a candidate for national office, both
financially and in terms of professional endorsement. The candidate will need campaign materials
and must be in attendance at the Annual Meeting. Express Networks must determine how much
of their resources they are willing to invest in supporting a member‘s candidacy and incorporate
this into their annual planning and budgeting process.

NEW MEMBER CEREMONY
Express Networks may design their own special welcome to new members or use this formal affiliation
ceremony.

President or Vice President Elect:
Invite your new members to come forward. Introduce each to the membership by giving a brief biogra-
phy, including her name, firm and position. Tell about her previous ABWA involvement, if any.

President or Vice President Elect:
―On behalf of ______________ Express Network of the American Business Women‘s Association, it is my
pleasure to welcome you as (an) member(s) into our network.

―When you accepted membership in ABWA, you agreed to abide by the National Bylaws of the Associa-
tion. You also became (an) active supporter(s) of our Association‘s mission, which is to bring together
businesswomen of diverse occupations and to provide opportunities for them to help themselves and oth-
ers grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support and national
recognition.

―We invite you to share in the goals of _________Express Network, to stretch and grow, reach and learn
as we build new friendships and master new skills. May your membership bring you many rewarding
achievements. Welcome to our team!‖

NEWSLETTER AWARD
The Newsletter Award recognizes Chapter/Express Network newsletter winners
from competitions held at each district conference and national conference. ABWA
Chapters and Express Networks can enter their newsletters in competition in their
district conference only.

Judging and Selection at the District Level
All newsletter submissions are judged on site by non-ABWA members. Five winners
are selected for each district. A total of thirty newsletters will compete in the national competition. Dis-
trict winning newsletters will be automatically entered into the national newsletter competition. Three
non-member judges will select five national award winners prior to the National Conference. The five
winning newsletters will be announced at the National Conference.

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Newsletter Entry Requirements
Newsletters entered into the competition at district and national conferences must adhere to these
guidelines:
 The network must be in good standing (e.g., all officers and committee chairs are in good standing).
 Networks may compete only within their district. (For example, if a network resides in District I, it
can only compete in the District I competition).
 The network must include two copies of two different newsletter publications, dated in the current
Award year (August 1 through July 31) in their submission. One set of two newsletter issues will be
for display purpose and the other set will be used for the judging.
 The member representing the network in the newsletter competition is required to:
 Submit the network‘s newsletter entry in person to a representative of the newsletter committee.
 Be a primary member of the network.
 Sign the newsletter confirmation form indicating that this is the network‘s official newsletter—
entries must be identical to the issues distributed to members.
 Have purchased a complete conference registration.
 Be present at the time winners are announced, otherwise, their award is forfeited and another se-
lection is made.

Newsletter Judging Requirements
The following identification must appear on the newsletters.
 The network‘s full name.
 Network‘s primary contact information including:
 Name of primary contact
 Email address of primary contact
 Newsletter editor‘s name and email address
 Month and year of issue
 Demonstration of ABWA brand consistency and compliance with ABWA‘s Brand Standards for logos
and trademarks usage.
 Official ABWA logo in a prominent position on the front and/or back page.
 ―American Business Women‘s Association‖ - spelled out, not an abbreviation.
 Association‘s mission and Proud Code of Conduct is included in each newsletter publication.
 The network‘s ―vision‖ statement is included in each newsletter publication.
 Note: The network may use the newsletter templates designed by National . The templates may
be downloaded from the National Library located in the Women‘s Instructional Network.
 Demonstration of excellent writing mechanics, page layout and design and use of graphics including;
 Grammar and spelling.
 Formatting consistency.
 Stimulating, informative business and market relevant content.

OFFICER ELECTION PROCEDURES
Elect the Nominating Committee
 A three-member Nominating Committee is elected by March 31.
 With the exception of the Express Network president, any member on the active network roster is eli-
gible to serve on the Nominating Committee. Members serving on the Nominating Committee should
be primary members of the Express Network.

7/15/2010 11:03 AMPage 22

Elect the Nominating Committee
 A three-member Nominating Committee is elected by March 31.
 With the exception of the Express Network president, any primary member on the active Express Net-
work roster is eligible to serve on the Nominating Committee.
 Nominations for the committee are made from the floor. No member of the Express Network has the
right to nominate more than one person for the committee until every other member has had the op-
portunity to nominate a candidate.
 If there are more than three nominees, a majority vote is necessary to elect a nominee for the commit-
tee. Members are voted on in the order that they are nominated. The first nominee elected serves as
chair.

Nominating Committee Procedures
The chair schedules meeting(s) in agreement with committee members. The committee:
 Reviews the eligibility requirements (see ―Instructions to Voting Members‖) and duties for Express
Network Executive Board.
 Evaluates eligibility (referencing the WIN team roster) and qualifications of all suggested nominees
and verifies that each suggested nominee is eligible to serve.
 Prepares a slate of one or more candidates for each office to be filled.
 Contacts each nominee explaining major responsibilities and obtains her permission to place her name
on the ballot.
 Follows Express Network instructions on publishing or not publishing the slate of officers. If the Ex-
press Network votes to publish the slate, it provides a written copy to the vice president of communi-
cations for publication in the network‘s newsletter and posts it on the Chapter‘s WIN Team Board.
 Secures the following supplies necessary for the election of officers:
 Slips of paper and pencils to be used in balloting. Ballots may be printed in advance. Names
of all nominees are listed under the proper office heading and a blank space is provided for
possible write-in votes. Directions for the proper method of marking should be printed on
the ballot.
 Sheets of paper to be used to tally and record the tellers‘ report. (See ―Tellers‘ Report.‖)
 Receptacle for ballot collection.
 Reads the slate of candidates at the May election meeting. Gives a written copy to the presiding
officer, along with the election supplies listed above.

Conducting the Election of Officers
 Before conducting an election, the presiding officer determines that a quorum is present (not less
than one-third of the Express Network‘s members). She then determines the exact number of vot-
ing members present. A countdown of numbers is helpful (i.e., first member whose name is called
answers with number ―one,‖ and so on, until every active member‘s name has been called).
 The total number of members present who are eligible to vote is recorded by the vice president of
communications.

7/15/2010 11:03 AMPage 23

Instructions to Voting Members
The presiding officer reads, or directs the vice president of communications to read the following:
Eligibility requirements:
 Candidates for office must be in good standing nationally and locally.
 No member is eligible to serve more than two full consecutive terms in the same office.
 No member is eligible to hold office in two or more Chapters/Express Networks at the same time.
 Candidates for the Executive Board must be primary members of the Express Network.

Balloting instructions:
 Written ballots for each network office are cast in accordance with one of the two balloting methods
(i.e., ―Balloting, Method One‖ or ―Balloting, Method Two‖).
 A majority of the votes cast is necessary for election.
 If any one candidate does not receive a majority vote, then a runoff is held between the two candi-
dates receiving the highest number of votes. Should the runoff result in a tie, the balloting continues
until one candidate receives a majority vote.

Nominating Committee Report of Nominees for Chapter Office
 The Nominating Committee chair reads the slate of candidates for each office.
 The Nominating Committee chair gives a written copy of the slate to the presiding officer, along with
the supplies necessary for balloting. Nominating duties are completed at this time.

Appointment of Tellers to Distribute, Collect and Count Ballots
 The presiding officer appoints three tellers. The first named teller is the chair. A candidate should not
serve as a teller.
 The tellers are informed of the number of eligible voters present, and they record this count for their
report.
 Tellers are given a Tellers‘ Report blank paper for tally sheets, envelopes marked with the name of an
Express Network office and receptacles for the receipt of the ballots.

Balloting
Two alternate procedures for the sequence of nominating and voting in elections by ballot may be used.
The first method affords greater flexibility in choosing officers while the second requires less time.

Method One: Balloting for each office immediately follows nominations from the floor for that office. The
ballots are counted for the office and the result is announced before the next office to be voted on is
opened for nominations from the floor. The members are then able to take into account the results of the
offices previously voted on before deciding upon both nominations and votes for later offices.

Method Two: Nominations for all offices can be completed before any balloting takes place and voting for
all offices is commonly done by a single ballot. It may be a preferred method in any large meeting to save
time. In either method, if any office remains unfilled after the first ballot (no candidate received a major-
ity), as may occur when there are more than two nominees, the balloting should be repeated for that office
as many times as needed to obtain a majority vote for a single candidate.
The following procedures apply to both methods:
 The presiding officer reads from the report of the Nominating Committee the names of the candidates
for the office of president or for the entire slate.

7/15/2010 11:03 AMPage 24

The following procedures apply to both methods:
 The presiding officer reads from the report of the Nominating Committee the names of the candidates
for the office of president or for the entire slate.
 The presiding officer asks for nominations from the floor:
 Any member meeting the eligibility requirements may be nominated from the floor even though
she had not been named as a candidate in the report of the nominating committee.
 Nominations should not be closed as long as nominations are forthcoming.
 The tellers distribute the ballots.
 The presiding officer and members vote.
 The tellers collect and count the ballots.
 The ballots are placed in a sealed envelope with the name of the office on the outside.
 The tellers complete a Teller‘s Report for each office.
 The chair of the tellers addresses the presiding officer and reads the tellers‘ report. See sample below.
 The chair hands the report to the presiding officer without declaring who has been elected.

Tellers’ Report
The tellers prepare a report using the following format:
Office of: _____________________
Number of votes cast: 70
Necessary for election: 36
Mary Smith received: 40
Jane Jones received: 20
Louise Williams received: 10
If none of the candidates receives a majority of the votes, the report might look like this:
Office of: _____________________
Number of votes cast: 70 In the example to the left, the number of votes received by
Necessary for election: 36 each candidate would be reported, and then there would
Mary Smith received: 30 be a runoff between Mary and Jane. A candidate would
Jane Jones received: 24 have to obtain at least 36 votes to win the election.
Louise Williams received: 16

Announcement of Election to Office
 The presiding officer announces to the Express Network: ―A majority of the votes cast is necessary for
election. By your ballots you have elected Mary Smith president.‖
 If there are any questions about the balloting for the office, they should be stated at this time. If the re-
sults are not challenged when they are announced, the election stands.
 A majority vote of the Express Network members in attendance is necessary to order a recount of the
ballots.
 Should a recount be ordered, it must take place immediately.
 The process is repeated for the next office elected or proceed if balloting on entire slate.
 The Nominating Committee must destroy all ballots following conclusion of the election meeting.

Effective Date of Election
 Election to an office becomes final immediately if the candidate is present and does not decline, or
if she is absent but has consented to her candidacy.
 Officer terms begin August 1. The newly elected Executive Board should complete budgeting and
planning for the upcoming year by July 31, before officially taking office.

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Reporting the Election of Local Officers
 The outgoing vice president of communications completes the Officer Election Report form and
mails it to ABWA National.
 An Express Network‘s charter will be suspended if the Express Network does not elect officers
and report election results to ABWA National by the June 30 deadline.

RATIFICATION OF PRESIDENT-ELECT FOR TRANSITION TO PRESIDENT
The transition to president by the president-elect requires a ―yes or no‖ vote, or ratification. This require-
ment for ratification of the president-elect assuming the office of president gives members of the Express
Network the opportunity to deal with issues that may arise during the president-elect‘s term in office.

Ratification allows the Express Network to handle these issues constructively and proactively and assures
that the Express Network will continue under effective leadership. It provides an alternative course of
action when the president-elect‘s personal circumstances, the performance of her duties or her own sense
of her ability to serve as president have changed to the extent that the potential effectiveness of her lead-
ership becomes questionable.

Non-ratification should not occur without good cause and should not be employed as a means of express-
ing personal dislike of one member for another. Except in unusual circumstances, any member concerned
about the president-elect‘s ability and commitment to serve as president should have reported such con-
cerns to the Express Network president well before the date of the election.

INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS
If your Express Network chooses to hold an installation, it may take place immediately following the elec-
tion or at a subsequent meeting. Regardless, an officer‘s term officially begins on Aug. 1. If you do hold an
installation, you may want to use the script provided below.

Presiding Officer Comments
―On behalf of the outgoing officers of the Executive Board, thank you for your cooperation and your en-
thusiasm. You have made our term of office rewarding and enjoyable. We pledge our continued support
of the Express Network and its new officers. It is now my pleasure and privilege to install the new offi-
cers of ____________ Express Network of the American Business Women‘s Association. Will the newly
elected officers please come forward?‖

The new officers come forward and stand in a row beside the presiding officer, in this order: president,
president-elect, vice president of communications, vice president of finance, vice president of marketing/
public relations, vice president of programming (and any other officers deemed necessary and thus elected).
As each officer‘s name is called, she steps forward, takes the oath of office, and steps back again. The presid-
ing officer then moves on to the next officer to be installed.

Oath of Office
Presiding officer addresses elected officers:
 President: ―__________________, the members of this Express Network have approved your ad-
vancement to the office of president. Your leadership will guide us in pursuing Express Network
goals throughout the coming year. To you, all officers will look for guidance. To you, all members
pledge their support. Do you accept this responsibility and promise to fulfill to the best of your
ability, the duties of president? If so, answer ‗yes.‘ ‖

7/15/2010 11:03 AMPage 26

 President-Elect: ―_____________________, you have been elected president-elect. It is your respon-
sibility to greet and introduce all guests to members. Also, you are to assume the duties of the
president in her absence. Do you accept this responsibility and promise to fulfill, to the best of
your ability, the duties of president-elect? If so, answer ‗yes.‘ ‖

 Vice President of Communications: ―______________________, you have been elected vice presi-
dent of communications. You are to record the minutes of each meeting, making them available to
the Express Network when needed. It is also your duty to handle all official Express Network
communications and to make them available to the members. Do you accept this responsibility
and promise to fulfill, to the best of your ability, the duties of vice president of communications? If
so, answer ‗yes.‘ ‖

 Vice President of Finance: ―_____________________, you have been elected vice president of fi-
nance. You are responsible for collecting and disbursing money, and keeping an accurate account
of all transactions. You are to provide a financial report each month, and you are to submit your
records for examination by the auditing committee when requested. Do you accept this responsi-
bility and promise to fulfill, to the best of your ability, the duties of vice president of finance? If so,
answer ‗yes.‘ ‖

 Vice President of Marketing/Public Relations: ―________________, you have been elected vice
president of marketing/public relations. You, in conjunction with the president-elect, will encour-
age membership retention, and promote membership recruitment. It is also your duty to send all
promotional information to media covering national, Express Network and member achieve-
ments, and Express Network activities. Do you accept this responsibility and promise to fulfill, to
the best of your ability, the duties of vice president of marketing/public relations. If so, answer
‗yes.‘ ‖

 Vice President of Programming: ―_____________________, you have been elected vice president of
programming. You are responsible for the planning of educational programs and speakers for
monthly meetings and other special events. It is also your responsibility to coordinate the net-
working time at monthly meetings and other events. Do you accept this responsibility and prom-
ise to fulfill, to the best of your ability, the duties of vice president of programming? If so, answer
‗yes.‘ ‖

Presiding Officer addresses Express Network members: ―In accordance with Express Network Bylaws,
these members have been elected and installed as the Executive Board of ______________ Express Net-
work, and will take office effective the first day of August. During their terms of office they will lead us in
our efforts to fulfill the mission of the American Business Women‘s Association. In return, we as members
are obligated to support them in their roles and to cooperate enthusiastically in all Express Network ac-
tivities. Do you as members pledge your full support to helping our new officers fulfill their official re-
sponsibilities? If so, answer ‗yes.‘‖

OFFICERS TRANSITION PROCEDURE (Passing the Gavel)
With the universal election, a transition period for Express Network leaders is the time set aside for newly
elected officers to plan for the coming year (June-July). The Express Network‘s incoming leaders should
meet with outgoing officers and project leaders to learn about their responsibilities and to establish goals,
action items and budgets to support Express Network initiatives.

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT RECOGNITION

ABWA‘s mission is to provide working women with the kind
of professional development opportunities that allow them to
compete and WIN in their personal and professional lives.
One of our goals in supporting ABWA‘s mission is to
continually raise the bar and offer the leading edge in business
and market relevant programming. Additionally, we want to
provide members with the national recognition they deserve
for achieving their personal and professional best.

The APEX Award is designed to recognize members for their
personal excellence by successfully completing ABWA
programs. For the upcoming 2010-2011 Award Year, we will be honoring those members who achieved
their development goals in two program areas: Teaming and/or Personal Marketing. Members may
qualify for one or both of these programs. Members who complete these programs on or before
October 1, 2010 will be recognized at the upcoming National Women‘s Leadership Conference in
Chattanooga, Tennessee.

In the next section, you will find a description of the Teaming and Personal Marketing programs currently
available to all members. In future years, we will continue to introduce new development and recognition
opportunities designed to enhance your skills, knowledge and marketability.

APEX IN PERSONAL MARKETING AWARD
If you haven‘t looked for a job in recent years, you probably don‘t realize that the rules of job hunting have
changed drastically. In 2010, ABWA‘s goal was to add two new opportunities that would teach members
how to write a resume and interview for a job in today‘s world. To qualify for the APEX in PERSONAL
MARKETING, complete the Resumes that Get Interviews (available today) and Interviews that Get Offers
(coming in early September).

7/15/2010 11:03 AMPage 28

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT RECOGNITION

APEX IN TEAMING AWARD
The definition of an ABWA team is a group of members who work
together to complete a project or task successfully. In order for the
team to generate a greater performance than one member, the team
must possess a full-set of complimentary skills, a high level of
interdependence and a shared commitment toward a common
goal.

Thus, the Team Tools modules introduced in the Women‘s
Instructional Network are excellent learning opportunities de-
signed to give ABWA leaders the knowledge, tools and insights
they need to lead their ABWA teams to even higher levels of performance. These same tools are intended
to support members in their everyday life; in their job, business or in their favorite community
organization.

To qualify for the APEX in TEAMING AWARD, members must have successfully completed the six Team Tools mod-
ules listed below. All Team Tools courseware is located in the Women‘s Instructional Network.

OPTION 1  Team Roles and Responsibilities The first five courses listed in
OPTION 2 option 2, are available with
 Team Problem Solving
 Creating a Team Charter  Team Communication Basics Express Network membership.
 Goal Setting and Measuring Results  Planning for Action
 Making Group Decisions  Giving and Receiving Feedback
 Facilitating Team Interactions  Managing Team Performance
 Managing Team Conflict
 Creating a Collaborative Team Environment*

* Must be purchased from the ABWA Shopping Cart

TOP TEN BUSINESS WOMEN OF ABWA PROGRAM
Each year, ten members of the Association are recognized nationally for ex-
ceptional achievements by being selected as the Top Ten Business Women of
ABWA. The Top Ten represent the Association‘s image of success, and serve
as important role models and mentors for ABWA members. For details on
nominating a member of your Express Network for national Top Ten recog-
nition, including eligibility requirements, judging guidelines and procedures
to follow, please consult the guide, ―Top Ten Business Women of ABWA.‖
This guide is located in the Women‘s Instructional Network.

7/15/2010 11:03 AMPage 29

PROUD CODE OF CONDUCT
Ethical dilemmas occur as a result of values in conflict. It is important that the values of the American
Business Women‘s Association are communicated to all members, and so Express Network and Chapter
leaders are asked not only to communicate but also to embrace, support, reinforce and uphold ABWA‘s
Proud Code of Conduct.

ABWA‘s Proud Code of Conduct was developed as a means of guiding all members in making ethical
decisions. The broad statements of the code of conduct that are listed below are not expected to cover all
conduct for all situations. This is why the Proud Code of Conduct was created as a living and fluid code.
All members will serve as goodwill ambassadors for the American Business Women‘s Association.
1. Members will not allow their personal beliefs and convictions to interfere with the representation
of ABWA‘s mission.
2. Members will always treat their member colleagues, guests, vendors and sponsors with honesty,
respect, fairness, integrity, responsibility, kindness, and in good faith.
4. Members will maintain compliance with ABWA National, Chapter and Express Network Bylaws.
5. Members will not use their personal power to advance their personal interests.
6. Members will strive for excellence in their professions by maintaining and enhancing their own
business knowledge and skills, and by encouraging the professional development of other mem-
bers.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION FOR DESERVING MEMBERS
Protégé AWARD
The Protégé Award recognizes a member from your Express Network who has completed one year of
membership in the Association and is starting her second year. Criteria for this award are to be established
by each network. The recommended criteria are that, in the first year of membership, the member must
have at least:
 Attended 10 or more meetings.
 Participated in an activity to support the network‘s growth and perpetuation.
 Recruited at least one new member.

Twenty-Five Year Member Recognition
Members who have completed 25 years of membership with ABWA will receive a 25-year recognition pin
from ABWA National. Subsequent guards are available from the ABWA Merchandise department for 30-,
35-, 40-, 45-and 50-year members. A special recognition luncheon is scheduled each year at the National
Women‘s Leadership Conference in honor of these members.

VISION STATEMENT FOR YOUR EXPRESS NETWORK
Your vision statement should passionately proclaim the desired state of your Express Network when it
has realized its full potential. It boldly and enthusiastically describes what your Express Network will
look, feel and act like when it has successfully achieved its goals.

Once your statement is completed, post on the network‘s WIN team board on or before August 15 and in
each monthly newsletter publication. The Express Network‘s vision statement should be reviewed and
revised (if necessary) each year.

7/15/2010 11:03 AMPage 30

ASSOCIATION FOUNDATION AND FUND RESOURCES
American Business Women’s Foundation
The American Business Women‘s Foundation was established in January 1998 when the ABWA Board
of Directors approved a proposal for a Foundation with the following purpose: to receive, administer,
and expend funds for charitable and educational purposes in connection with the following:
 Helping women to achieve their career goals.
 Helping foster, encourage, and promote the improvement of the condition of business and pro-
fessional women throughout the country.
 Providing funds for the development of professional programming that will increase women‘s
business acumen.

With the establishment of the American Business Women‘s Foundation, businesswomen have a new
avenue to remove the barriers that prevent women from achieving their goals. The foundation pro-
motes networking and professional development programming designed to increase a women‘s busi-
ness efficacy

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the ABW Foundation provides individuals and corporations with the op-
portunity to help promote women by making a tax deductible donation. Among other initiatives, the
ABW Foundation provides support to the American Business Women‘s Association by funding special
educational programming within the Women‘s Instructional Network and at national events.

Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund
The Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund (SBMEF) is the national
scholarship trust of the American Business Women‘s Association. The objective
of this fund is to support women in achieving their full potential through
education. SBMEF is named in honor of Stephen Bufton, son of ABWA founder
Hilary A. Bufton Jr., and Ruth H. Bufton.

SBMEF is a tax-exempt trust, administered by ABWA National however, the
elected national officers of the Association serve as the trustees of the Board
and as the selection Board for determining scholarship recipients.

To learn more about the Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund,
visit www.sbmef.org or email the fund administrator at sbrosen@abwa.org.

The forms, information and tools
referenced in the Officer and Committee Guide can be found in the
Women‘s Instructional Network

7/15/2010 11:03 AMPage 31

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