Stacey Utt

Thanks everyone! Those are great ideas. 😀

Thank you. I will take nominations from the floor. What usually happens if there are no nominations?

Thank you all for your insight into this topic! Thankfully, I found someone to chair the nominations committee. Reading the discussion, I realize my organization's bylaws are not clearly written. That is something I'm going to have to work on. For the time being, I do not believe the president is required to appoint the members of the nominating committee. I think the members of the nominating committee are elected by the membership, which brings me to another issue. How are the nominating committee members elected, especially if no one comes forward to volunteer to be on the committee?

I understand now that I am responsible for appointing a chairman of the nominations committee. What is the proper way to appoint someone to this role? It was suggested at our last meeting that I send an email asking for a volunteer. I did send an email, but unfortunately, no one stepped forward. Then I reached out via email to the previous President requesting they accept the appointment, but I have not received an answer. I have a couple other people in mind that I think would be a good fit, but my fear is that no one will accept the appointment. If I cannot find anyone to agree to serve as chairman of the committee, what would be the best way to handle the situation? Would it be acceptable to draw a name at random during our next meeting, then that's the person appointed? I am struggling with how to handle the lack of participation. Any thoughts?

Yes, the bylaws specifically lists the nominating committee as a "standing committee". Here is the exact language from the bylaws: Under the duties of President, it states: "The President will appoint the Chairperson for the Standing Committees." Under Committees it states: "Standing Committees shall consist of Program Committee, Membership Committee, Publicity Committee, Nominating Committee and Executive Committee. Other committees can be formed as needed to carry out the objectives determined by officers and/or Executive Committee." Under Standing Committee Duties, it states: "The Nominating Committee Chairperson shall be appointed by the President and shall consist of up to three members. A slate of officers shall be prepared and mailed to the membership 30 days prior to the fall meeting."

I am a new president of a local professional organization. The bylaws state "the president shall appoint the chairperson of the standing committees". During our first meeting, it was brought to my attention that several offices are up for election this year, which means we need a nominations committee. As president, I need to appoint a chairperson of the nominating committee. What is the proper procedure for making such an appointment? I sent an email asking for volunteers and received no response, which didn't surprise me because participation has been lacking since going virtual. Am I supposed to select a member randomly? I am brand new to Robert's Rules and parliamentary procedure, but since I took on this role I am determined to do it right, which means doing it properly. When I select someone, should I discuss it with the individual prior to the meeting, or do I state something during the meeting? What would be a possible sample script for making the appointment during the meeting? Thank you all for your guidance. I have a lot to learn.