Epsilon Sigma Phi (ESP) is dedicated to fostering the standards of excellence in the Extension System and developing the Extension profession and professional.

Section 1. ANNUAL MEETING. The annual meeting of the National Council of Epsilon Sigma Phi shall be held as specified in the Constitution.

Section 2. SPECIAL MEETINGS. Special meetings of the National Council of Epsilon Sigma Phi may be called by a majority of the National Board, or upon request by the members of the National Council, when a resolution for such special meeting is presented and signed by thirty (30) per cent of the members of the National Council. Upon receipt of such a resolution, the President and Executive Director shall set a specific place and date for the special meeting to be held within sixty (60) days from the date the resolution is received by the President.

Section 3. NOTICE OF MEETINGS. The business agenda of the National Council meeting and all special meetings of Epsilon Sigma Phi shall be given to all members of the National Council of Epsilon Sigma Phi at least thirty (30) days before the date of the meetings.

Section 4. MEETING CANCELLATION. In case of a national emergency, the President, with the approval of the National Board may cancel a national meeting. Members shall be notified.

Section 5. MEETING LOCATION. The National Board approves the date and location of national meeting.

Section 1. VOTING. The designated representatives of chapters, members-at-large, and the National Board shall constitute the membership of the National Council and thereby the voting members of Epsilon Sigma Phi.

a. The board of each chapter shall designate their representative(s) and member(s) on the National Council. Members-at-large voting delegates shall be selected by the National Board.

b. Each authorized member of the National Council shall have one vote. The number of votes per chapter and for members-at-large is based on the number of members as described in the Constitution.

c. In the case of a vote by acclamation, standing or raising of hands, the President may cast the deciding vote in case of a tie if he/she has not previously voted. However, when a ballot vote is required, he/she must cast his/her vote when the rest of the votes are cast.

d. Voting by proxy shall be prohibited.

Section 2. Quorum. Members present at a meeting of the National Council of Epsilon Sigma Phi shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of all business.

Insofar as possible, the order of business at the National Council meeting and at all other meetings of the National Council of Epsilon Sigma Phi shall be as follows:

a. Registration of voting members

b. Proof of notice of meeting

c. Reading and disposal of all previous unapproved minutes

d. Reports of officers and committees

e. Election of officers

f. Unfinished business

g. New business

h. Installation of officers

i. Adjournment

Section 1. MEMBERSHIP. The National Board shall consist of nine (9) members: President; President-Elect/Vice President for Chapter Relations; Second Vice President for Professional Development; Vice President for Resource Development and Management; Vice President for Member Services; Vice President for Global Relations; Vice President for Public Issues; Past President and Chair of Membership Recruitment and Retention; and Executive Director, a non-voting member of the National Board.

Section 2. ELECTION AND TERM OF OFFICE.

a. A Second Vice President for Professional Development shall be elected annually to serve one year as Second Vice President, one year as President-Elect/First Vice President, one year as President, and one year as Past President. A regional rotation system (North Central, Northeast, South, West) shall be used for filling the office. Election of the Second Vice President shall be held during the National Council meeting. Voting shall be by ballot. In the event there is only one nominee for an office the election may be by voice.

b. The Vice President for Resource Development and Management (Northeast, South, West, North Central), Vice President for Member Services (West, North Central, Northeast, South), Vice President for Global Relations (North Central, Northeast, South, West), and Vice President for Public Issues (South, West, North Central, Northeast) shall be elected at a regional meeting and shall serve a two year term or until a successor has been elected. A regional rotation system will be used in filling each of the Vice President positions. Each Vice President will serve on the National Board representing the region from which they were elected and will be a contact for the states in that region.

c. Vice Presidents shall not serve successive terms, except in the case of elections to Second Vice President.

d. All officers shall assume their duties at the National Council post Board meeting.

e. At the end of the President's term, the President will serve as the past president and chair of the Membership Recruitment and Retention Committee for one year.

f. The Executive Director, a non-voting member of the National Board, is to be selected by the voting members of the National Board.

Section 3. QUALIFICATIONS.

a. The National Board of Epsilon Sigma Phi shall be members of the National Council and members in good standing of a chapter or member-at-large.

b. The Executive Director is employed by the National Board. The initial term of employment is for one year and is renewed annually; following negotiation and agreement between the person employed and the National Board.

Section 4. VACANCIES. Any vacancy in the National Board, unless caused by removal by members of the National Council, shall be filled by the remaining members of the National Board and the vacancy shall be filled by selection from region represented by the vacancy. The same shall serve the remaining term of the person replaced.

Section 5. COMPENSATION. The compensation, if any, of the elected National Board shall be determined by the members of the National Council. All officers shall, however, be entitled to reimbursement for special expenses incurred in directing the business of Epsilon Sigma Phi when such expenses have been approved by the National Board.

Section 6. REMOVAL. A member of the National Board of Epsilon Sigma Phi may, for cause, be removed from office by a majority vote at the National Council meeting or special meeting of the National Council called for that purpose, at which a majority of the members shall be present. No National Board member shall be removed unless in the notice of such meeting it has been stated that his/her removal is to be considered. A National Board member shall be informed that his/her removal is to be considered and a hearing shall be given such a National Board member, in person or by representation at the meeting.

Section 7. MEETINGS. The National Board meets prior to and following the national council meeting and mid-year. The mid-year meeting is called by the President.

Section 8. CONDUCTING BUSINESS. The National Board may conduct business by mail or telephone when necessary. Minutes will be kept and approved for any such meetings.

Section 1. MANAGEMENT. The National Board shall direct the business affairs of the National Council of Epsilon Sigma Phi. They shall make the necessary rules and regulations which are consistent with the law under which Epsilon Sigma Phi is incorporated, or with the Constitution and Bylaws of Epsilon Sigma Phi. The National Board shall be empowered to employ a non-voting Executive Director and any other personnel on a full or part-time basis as is needed to carry out special activities and programs of Epsilon Sigma Phi. The National Board shall determine their duties and fix their wages, and have power to dismiss such employees when they are no longer needed, or if they are ineffective.

Section 2. BOND OF EMPLOYEES. The National Board shall require the Executive Director, and any others handling Epsilon Sigma Phi funds, to be bonded. Such bonds shall be furnished by a responsible bonding company, and the cost thereof shall be paid by Epsilon Sigma Phi.

Section 3. AUDITS. The National Board shall examine the accounts of Epsilon Sigma Phi at their meetings, and shall in addition have the books audited at least once a year by an impartial competent accountant. The annual audit shall be made by March 1 of each year. A report of the audit shall be submitted to the delegates at the National Council Meeting. The report shall include a statement of income and expenses for the year and provide such other data as may have been requested by the National Board, or may have been ordered by vote of the members of the National Council at the previous meeting. The National Board of Epsilon Sigma Phi shall have the authority to have the books audited more frequently than once a year if it is deemed necessary or advisable.

Section 4. EVALUATION OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. The National Board shall hold an annual evaluation of the Executive Director. Input from the National Board, National Committees, and chapters shall be solicited.

Section 1. PRESIDENT. The president shall:

a. Provide direction and leadership for Epsilon Sigma Phi activities and programs.

b. Work with National Board in coordinating their efforts in carrying out Epsilon Sigma Phi's purposes and programs.

c. Preside over all meetings of the National Council and the National Board.

d. Serve as a member of the Joint Council of Extension Professionals (JCEP).

e. Move into the role of Past President at the end of their term.

f. Perform other duties as assigned by the National Board.

Section 2. PRESIDENT-ELECT/VICE PRESIDENT FOR CHAPTER RELATIONS. The President-Elect/Vice President for Chapter Relations shall:

a. Perform the duties of the President in his/her absence or disability.

b. Appoint committees with approval of the National Board.

c. Preside at a meeting of national committees during the national meeting to coordinate the plan of work for the coming year.

d. Serve as a member of the Joint Council of Extension Professionals (JCEP)

e. Move into the role of President at the end of the term.

f. Plan and implement the regional workshops with the Vice President.

g. Serve as chapter relations liaison.

h. Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Section 3. SECOND VICE PRESIDENT FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT. The Second Vice President shall:

a. Serve as Chair of the Professional Development Committee.

b. Be responsible for co-ordinating the planning, implementation and evaluation of the national conference.

c. Move into the role of President-Elect/Vice President for Chapter Relations at the end of the term.

d. Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Section 4. VICE PRESIDENT FOR RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT. The Vice President for Resource Development and Management shall:

a. Serve as Chair of the Resource Development and Management Committee.

b. Represent the region from which elected.

c. Assist with local arrangements when overall planning for regional workshops is Epsilon Sigma Phi's responsibility.

d. Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Section 5. VICE PRESIDENT FOR MEMBER SERVICES. The Vice President for Member Services shall:

a. Serve as Chair of the Member Services Committee.

b. Represent the region from which elected.

c. Assist with local arrangements when overall planning for regional workshops is Epsilon Sigma Phi's responsibility.

d. Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Section 6. VICE PRESIDENT FOR GLOBAL RELATIONS. The Vice President for Global Relations shall:

a. Serve as Chair of the Global Relations Committee.

b. Represent the region from which elected.

c. Assist with local arrangements when overall planning for regional workshops is Epsilon Sigma Phi's responsibility.

d. Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Section 7. VICE PRESIDENT FOR PUBLIC ISSUES. The Vice President for Public Issues shall:

a. Serve as Chair of the Public Issues Committee.

b. Represent the region from which elected.

c. Represent Epsilon Sigma Phi on any special task forces relating to public issues.

d. Assist with local arrangements when overall planning for regional workshops is Epsilon Sigma Phi's responsibility.

e. Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Section 8. IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT. The Immediate Past President shall:

a. Serve as Chair of the Membership Recruitment and Retention Committee.

b. Chair the Nominating Committee.

c. Be responsible for Constitution and Bylaws revisions and Chapter Handbook revisions.

d. Serve as a member of the Joint Council of Extension Professionals (JCEP).

e. Chair evaluation of Executive Director procedure.

f. Serve as parliamentarian at meetings of the National Board.

g. Perform other duties as assigned by the President.

Section 9. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR. The Executive Director shall:

a. Keep a complete record of the meetings of the National Council and the National Board.

b. Serve all notices required in the Bylaws.

c. Submit at the National Council meeting a complete report of the year's activities of Epsilon Sigma Phi, except such special reports as are presented by officers.

d. Receive and disburse all funds of Epsilon Sigma Phi and keep a complete record and have records audited annually by a qualified accountant by March 1 of each year.

e. Perform such other duties as may be required by the National Board.

Section 1. APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEES. The National Board of Epsilon Sigma Phi shall designate committees to carry out fraternity activities. The President-Elect shall make committee appointments and notify appointees no later than one month prior to the National Council meeting. All persons appointed to such committees shall be members in good standing. Committee members shall become active at the national conference in the year their appointment is made.

Section 2. COMMITTEES. Committee members are appointed for one year with one-half of the committee being appointed each year. Members shall not succeed themselves for more than a total of three (3) years. Committees shall report to the National Board and make recommendations for National Board and National Council action.

Section 3. SPECIAL TASK FORCES. The National Board shall designate special task forces as needed.

Section 4. COMMITTEE CHAIRS. The respective elected vice presidents shall serve as committee chairs.

Section 1. MEMBERSHIP DUES. Dues are to be paid to the Executive Director between October 1 and January 1.

a. ANNUAL DUES. Members shall pay annual dues through their chapter or in the case of members-at-large, dues should be paid directly to the National Office.

b. LIFE MEMBERSHIP. Members, retired from an entity of the Cooperative Extension System, may obtain a paid-up life membership by paying an amount equal to five times the annual dues.

c. AMOUNT. The dues for annual membership shall be established by the voting delegates at the National Council meeting. Proposed changes in dues shall be made known 30 days prior to the National Council meeting at which the vote is taken. Any increase in dues voted upon at a National Council meeting shall become effective one year after action by the National Council.

Section 2. MEMBER INITIATION FEE. Each chapter shall pay to the Executive Director a member initiation fee for each new member. The amount of the initiation fee is listed in the Chapter Handbook. This is in addition to national and chapter dues.

Section 3. CHAPTER MEMBERSHIP DUES. In addition to the national dues, chapters may assess dues at their discretion.

Section 4. EPSILON SIGMA PHI FOUNDATION. Contributions may be accepted by the Epsilon Sigma Phi Foundation from affiliated chapters, individual members, and from other groups and individuals who are interested in furthering the purpose of Epsilon Sigma Phi.

Section 5. SPECIAL PROJECTS. To enlarge the program and to increase the effectiveness of Epsilon Sigma Phi, the National Council may arrange for special projects including publications for which a charge may be made.

Section 1. EMBLEMS. The official emblem shall be the one prescribed by the National Council. Emblems may be jeweled on the basis of the following lengths of service: one diamond in the upper-right corner upon completion of fifteen (15) years service; a second diamond upon completion of twenty-five (25) years service; and a third diamond at thirty (30) years. Chapters are responsible for emblem jeweling. The National Office only prepares the Ruby DSA with jewels.

Section 2. RECOGNITION AWARDS. Recognition may be given at National, Regional and State levels. Details on eligibility and numbers of awards is provided in the Chapter Handbook.

The official creed of the fraternity shall be that prescribed by the National Council and a copy of the same shall be furnished to each chapter to be displayed at each chapter meeting. Each chapter is urged to use the creed in its initiation ceremony and to provide a copy to each new member.

Upon receipt of the initiation fee each member of the fraternity shall be furnished a membership card signed by the Executive Director and the Secretary of the chapter.

National Board members are available to visit chapters, to speak at annual meetings, to conduct chapter workshops and to assist in other ways. Chapters are encouraged to request one such visit each five (5) years. The National Council and the host chapter are each responsible for certain travel expenses as noted in the Chapter Handbook.

The "guidelines" as set forth in these Bylaws shall be carefully followed in directing and carrying out the program and activities of Epsilon Sigma Phi and in conducting the meetings of the National Council and the National Board. Supplementary standing rules may be adopted by the National Council if appropriate. For the details of meeting procedures not covered in these "guidelines", Roberts Rules of Order, Revised shall apply.

The Bylaws may be amended by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the ballots cast by the National Council in session or by mail. Notice of proposed amendments shall be sent to chapter presidents at least thirty (30) days before balloting.

I, Marilynne Ross, President, certify that the written consent of two-thirds (2/3) of the National Council, being first had and obtained, file the following amendments to the Epsilon Sigma Phi Bylaws, heretofore filed on November, 1983.

Marilynne Ross (Seal)

November, 1992

I, Gail Shellberg, Executive Secretary-Treasurer, certify that the written consent of two-thirds (2/3) of the National Council, being first had an obtained, file the following amendments to the Epsilon Sigma Phi Bylaws, heretofore filed on November, 1983.

Gail Shellberg (Seal)

November, 1992

I, Richard R. Angus, President, certify that the written consent of two-thirds (2/3) of the National Council, being first had and obtained, file the following amendments to the Epsilon Sigma Phi Bylaws, heretofore filed on November, 1992.

Richard R. Angus

July 12, 1994

I, Gail Shellberg, Executive Secretary-Treasurer, certify that the written consent of two-thirds (2/3) of the National Council, being first had an obtained, file the following amendments to the Epsilon Sigma Phi Bylaws, heretofore filed on November, 1992.

Gail Shellberg

July 12, 1994

I, Bill Braden, President, certify that these Bylaws were amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of ballots cast by the National Council.

Bill Braden

December 1995

I, Judith S. Carlson, Executive Secretary-Treasurer, certify that these Bylaws were amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of ballots cast by the National Council.

Judith S. Carlson

December 1995

I, Margaret Viebrock, President, certify that these Bylaws were amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of ballots cast by the National Council.

Margaret Viebrock

December 1996

I, Judith S. Carlson, Executive Director, certify that these Bylaws were amended by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of ballots cast by the National Council.

Judith S. Carlson

December 1996

* Each chapter may determine procedures for defining membership within Article IV,

Section 1.

* Annual dues will be $20. Each chapter shall collect these dues and pay them to the Executive Director.

* Members-at-large shall pay $20.00 annual dues directly to the Executive Director.

* Paid-up life memberships are five times the annual dues. Each chapter shall collect these dues and submit them to the Executive Director. These life memberships are only available to retirees from the Cooperative Extension System. Life memberships may be purchased anytime following retirement.

* An initiation fee of $5.00 will be assessed each chapter for each new initiate.

* New chapters shall pay an affiliation fee of $20.00.

* Dues are payable within 90 days after October 1 of each year.

* Dues cannot be refunded.

* Epsilon Sigma Phi's membership list is not to be sold.

* A member may transfer to another chapter when the Executive Director receives notice from the secretary of the chapter accepting the transfer.

* If a vacancy occurs in the President's position, the President-Elect will automatically assume the Presidency for the unexpired term and then serve another full term as President. The President-Elect's position would remain vacant until the next annual meeting.

* If a Past President vacancy occurs, the previous Past President may assume the position for the unexpired term.

* If an Executive Director vacancy occurs or if it becomes necessary to solicit for an Executive Director, the National Board will initiate action, develop the position announcement and advertise the position. In addition, the National Board will establish a Search and Selection Committee to screen applications and extend interview invitations. All interviews will be conducted at regular or special meetings of the National Board.

* The voting delegates at the National Council Meeting shall adopt the budget for the forthcoming year.

STANDING RULES

Page 2

* Epsilon Sigma Phi shall not affiliate with any other organization without recommendation of the National Board and the consent of a majority of voting delegates present at a National Council Meeting.

Standing rules may be adopted at the National Council Meeting by a majority vote of the voting delegates present and voting. Standing rules may be amended or rescinded by a two-thirds vote without previous notice, or a majority vote after previous notice. Standing rules may be suspended temporarily by a majority vote. Standing rules will be formally reviewed every other year (even-numbered years) by the National Board. Standing rules are kept current by the Immediate Past President who notifies appropriate persons.

Board Meetings

* The mid-year National Board Meeting will be held at a convenient time with the Epsilon Sigma Phi President determining and arranging for the meeting place and accommodations, doing whatever is necessary to keep costs at a minimum. Once arrangements are made the Executive Director signs the contract and is responsible for payment.

* National Board Meetings are held prior to and following, at the same location as, the National Conference.

Conference Calls

* The National Board will schedule conference calls as deemed necessary to carry out the immediate business and/or concerns of Epsilon Sigma Phi.

* Conference calls may be necessary to carry on the business of National Committees. The calls should be arranged by the appropriate Vice President, in conjunction with the Executive Director. All conference calls will have a written agenda sent to the National President and committee members at least two weeks prior to the conference call.

Fiscal

* The ultimate authority for expenditures shall be by the approval of the National Board. The Executive Director, however, receives and disburses all funds; maintains financial accounts and records for operational funds, Epsilon Sigma Phi Foundation, loan funds and long term investments; and develops and manages the operating budget approved by the National Council.

* There shall be three signatures approved (Executive Director, his/her assistant, and the President) on the operating funds account; and two on the investment funds account.

* The Executive Director arranges for the annual audit by a qualified accountant prior to the National Council Meeting. Books are to be closed by December 31. The audit report is provided to the National Board and the membership at the National Council Meeting. The Executive Director also makes official and legal reports as required by IRS.

* Epsilon Sigma Phi shall have a credit card in the name of Epsilon Sigma Phi and held in the possession of the Executive Director for use at his/her discretion regarding Epsilon Sigma Phi business only. The charge(s) should be paid as soon as possible without any finance charges accrued.

POLICIES

Page 2

* The Executive Director should arrange for bonding insurance and casualty insurance as deemed necessary by the National Board. He/she will be responsible for monitoring renewal dates.

Investments

* The Resource Development and Management Committee is responsible for making decisions about the investment of funds. The Executive Director makes the investments directly with the appropriate mutual fund company after decisions are reached that represent the judgement of the committee and the approval of the Board.

The "prudent man rule" requires a trustee/officer to act "with care, skill, prudence, and diligence under the circumstances then prevailing that a prudent man acting in a like capacity and familiar with such matters would use in the conduct of an enterprise of a like character and with like aims" (The Money Encyclopedia, Harper and Row). This rule governs the way in which assets may be invested.

Objectives for the Foundation Funds are:

-- Preservation of capital

-- Secure income

-- Growth potential, meaning capital appreciation, for portions of total portfolios, percentage to be recommended by the committee and decided by Board.

The Foundation is expected to invest with the intent of long term investment with the objectives of appreciation and income, with reasonable low risk.

The Foundation fund earnings are intended for scholarships, mini-grants, and special needs as decided by the Board. The earnings in money market funds can be spent by writing a check. The Epsilon Sigma Phi Loan Fund is to be invested in high yielding money market funds.

Joint Council of Extension Professionals

* Joint Council of Extension Professionals--Epsilon Sigma Phi believes in and strongly supports the Joint Council.

* The National President, President-Elect, and Past President serve as Epsilon Sigma Phi's representatives to JCEP.

POLICIES

Page 3

Officer Nomination and Election Process

* The total National Board composition should include representation of both genders, and reflect linkages to state Extension administration, Extension off-campus faculty, and Extension professional associations.

* Criteria for Members of National Board

a. Nominees must be current Epsilon Sigma Phi members with leadership skills.

b. Nominees must be willing to make the tenure commitments of the position (Second VP starts a 4 year progression and; Vice President for 2 years or until a successor is elected.)

c. Nominees should have experiences within Epsilon Sigma Phi as a chapter officer, service on a committee(s) or served in some other leadership capacity for this organization.

d. Support from Director of Extension in the state where the nominee holds membership.

* Nominations

a. Nominations made by chapters.

b. Submit nomination forms to the National Office.

c. Nomination process will be overseen by the Past National President.

* The only campaigning for the national board offices is:

a. Nominees' resume material be made available to voting delegates at national conference or regional workshops.

b. Candidates will be introduced in alpha order at meeting where the election is held to give a two (2) minute position statement.

* Election Process

a. Ballots are to be printed in advance by the past president (or regional vice president) with names of all known nominees in alpha order. Blank lines will be provided for other nominations from the floor or write-ins. The presiding officer will call for further nominations from the floor.

b. The presiding officer will appoint tellers to distribute and collect ballots, count the votes, and announce the results. If no nominee receives a majority vote, the vote count will be announced and voting repeated. The ballots are destroyed following the election.

c. The number of votes per candidate is never announced after the election becomes final.

POLICIES

Page 4

Printing

* All items printed should include a revision date.

* National Committees or Board members desiring to publish a brochure, etc, in promotion of Epsilon Sigma Phi and/or its programs, must submit all information in the form of a proposal, including a mock-up and budget, to the Board for final approval. As a publication is approved, the Executive Director will coordinate the printing and distribution.

Reimbursement Policy for National Board and Other Travel

Because of increasing travel costs and greater involvement of National Board members in the Joint Council of Extension Professionals and in National Conference of the other Extension professional associations, the following guidelines are established for travel reimbursement.

* Expenses will be paid for the following:

-- Participation of the President, President-Elect and Past President (or designated representative) in meetings of JCEP and ECOP. Participation of the President (or President-Elect or Past President) in the National Conference of the other three Extension professional associations.

-- Participation of the President-Elect and Vice Presidents (in their respective region) in the Regional Workshops each year. Participation of other National Board members in these workshops will be subject to National Board approval.

-- Attendance of National Board members at the National Conference.

-- Participation of National Board members in a mid-year National Board Meeting with the site determined by the President.

-- Participation of Epsilon Sigma Phi representatives on the Steering Committee for the Galaxy Summit Conference planned for 1997.

-- Participation of Epsilon Sigma Phi Journal of Extension representative on the Journal of Extension Board.

-- Participation of JCEP representative on the ECOP Budget Committee. The travel expenses to participate in this activity will be divided equally among the JCEP partners.

-- Other special Epsilon Sigma Phi appointments require National Board approval.

POLICIES

Page 5

* Sources of funds for travel reimbursement:

-- Travel expenses will be paid from the operating budget of Epsilon Sigma Phi. As a guideline, if resources are available, the amount budgeted annually for travel expenses of National Board members will be increased by 5 percent each year (5 percent of actual travel costs incurred during the past year) to compensate for increasing costs, inflation, etc. and to facilitate the budget process.

* Limitations on reimbursable expenses:

-- Daily meal expenses will be reimbursed up to $25.00 for actual expenditures.

-- Lodging expenses will be reimbursed up to $80.00 per day single rate and must be accompanied by receipts. National Board members are encouraged to share a room when possible.

-- When traveling by personal vehicle, official mileage will be reimbursed at the rate of 25 cents per mile. Official mileage will be based on the shortest distance between locations. If the total cost of driving is less than air fare, one day's per diem (meals and lodging) will be provided when overnight lodging is necessary due to traveling long distances in a personal vehicle.

-- Reimbursement for National Board Meetings, National Conference and Regional Workshops will be limited to the days officially designated unless the savings accrued by traveling a day earlier or later, as in the case of weekend travel, more than offsets additional costs for meals and lodging.

-- Reimbursement for participation of the President (or President-Elect or Past President) in annual association National Conferences will be limited to travel costs, meals for two days, and two nights lodging or days of the conference if longer is required.

-- All requests for reimbursement must be submitted within 30 days of official travel.

-- No travel expenses will be paid until after an authorized trip.

* Suggestions for judicious use of travel funds:

-- Seek out special airline offers when planning travel and make reservations as early as possible. Many "early bird discounts" exists. Weekend fares generally offer considerable savings even when considering an extra day's lodging and meal costs. So do some early planning and try to get the best deal.

POLICIES

Page 6

-- Combine Epsilon Sigma Phi travel with other business when possible. If such travel can be combined, then travel expenses should be prorated equally.

-- Negotiate for the best possible rates (lodging, meals, etc.) when arranging for various meetings and activities.

Miscellaneous

* Individuals and/or chapters pay for and/or reimburse National Office for express mail charges that are caused by them.

* Chapters using the national display pay for all shipping.

* At the time of nomination for awards, National Board, and National Committees, current year dues must be paid to the Executive Director.

* Chapters are encouraged to obtain an IRS tax identification number for their chapter accounts.

* The Executive Director will maintain the current membership list which is to be used exclusively for Epsilon Sigma Phi business. He/she will make labels available to National Board and chapters, as requested.

* Epsilon Sigma Phi shall in no way be liable for the acts of individual members, nor for the National Board who may act beyond their authority. National Board members individually or collectively shall not be liable for Epsilon Sigma Phi unless they have acted beyond their authority. Epsilon Sigma Phi does not carry National Board liability insurance.

* Any member holding an appointed position, who fails to perform the function/assignment may be removed from the position by the National Board.

* The President, with the Executive Director, shall sign all award certificates and documents.

* A formal review of the Constitution and Bylaws should be conducted every four years (beginning 1993). A special task force should be appointed to conduct the review.

* The Futures Plan should be reviewed by the National Board annually and progress reported to the membership at the National Council Meeting.

POLICIES

Page 7

* Long-range goals shall be determined every five years with the help of committees, chapter presidents, and members. Yearly, the National Board will develop annual objectives which interface with the national goals. National Committees and chapter presidents will assist with developing annual objectives. National Committees should incorporate the goals and objectives into their plan of work.

* The National President will represent Epsilon Sigma Phi at the annual meetings of NACAA, NEAFCS, and NAE4-HA. He/she will also represent Epsilon Sigma Phi when invited to attend ECOP meeting. If the President is unable to represent Epsilon Sigma Phi at a particular event, he/she should appoint another National officer to attend--keeping in mind the most cost efficient methods of representation.

* A running list of motions approved at a National Board Meeting or National Council Meeting shall be kept by the Executive Director.

Polices are adopted by a majority vote of National Board members present and voting. They may be amended or rescinded by 2/3 vote without previous notices or a majority vote after previous notice. Polices may be suspended temporarily by a majority vote. Polices will be formally reviewed every two years (even-numbered years) by the National Board. Policies are kept current by the Past President who notifies appropriate persons.

I Believe in people and their hopes, their aspirations, and their faith; in their right to make their own plans and arrive at their own decisions; in their ability and power to enlarge their lives and plan for the happiness of those they love.

I Believe that education, of which Extension is an essential part, is basic in stimulating individual initiative, self-determination, and leadership; that these are the keys to democracy and that people when given facts they understand, will act not only in their self-interest, but also in the interest of society.

I Believe that education is a lifelong process and the greatest university is the home; that my success as a teacher is proportional to those qualities of mind and spirit that give me welcome entrance to the homes of the families I serve.

I Believe in intellectual freedom to search for and present the truth without bias and with courteous tolerance toward the views of others.

I Believe that Extension is a link between the people and the ever-changing discoveries in the laboratories.

I Believe in the public institutions of which I am a part.

I Believe in my own work and in the opportunity I have to make my life useful to humanity.

Because I Believe these things, I am an Extension professional.

JAN 1 Nominations for Regional Vice President due at National Office every other year 1998, 2000, 2002...

JAN 1 News copy deadline for February Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter

JAN 2 Applications for Public Issues Scholarships deadline (postmarked) to National Office

FEB 1 Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter mailed

FEB/MAR Regional Workshops (dates and locations announced yearly)

FEB State list of committee chairs requested at regional workshops

FEB Recruit National Committee members at regional workshops

FEB Input obtained from chapters for five-year goals and annual objectives at regional workshops

FEB Vice Presidents elected (every other year) (1998, 2000, 2002)

MAR 1 Nominations due to President-Elect for individuals to serve on National Committees (use National Committee Nomination Form, page C-3)

MAR 1 Awards and scholarship nominations due to National Office (use National/Regional Award Nomination Transmittal Form page E-18 or K-13):

- National Distinguished Service Ruby Award (60 copies)

- International Service Award (10 copies)

- National Friend of Extension Award (10 copies)

- Regional Distinguished Service Award (15 copies)

- Regional Mid-Career Service Award (15 copies)

- Regional Team Award (15 copies)

- Professionalism Scholarship (10 copies)

- Early Career Scholarship (10 copies)

- Public Issues/Leadership Development Seminar Scholarship (10 copies)

MAR 1 Evaluation of Executive Director Form sent to Chapter Officer(s), National Board members, and Executive Director and Staff

MAR 10 Ruby DSA Award Ballot deadline (postmarked) at National Office (1997 only - 1998 returns to July 1)

APR 1 News copy deadline for May Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter

ANNUAL CALENDAR

Page 2

APR 1 Evaluation of Executive Director Form (page N-9) due to National Epsilon Sigma Phi Past President

APR 15 Regional Award Ballot Deadline from Chapter (postmarked) at National Office (1997 only - 1998 returns to July 1)

MAY 1 Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter mailed

APR/MAY Public Issues/Leadership Development Seminar

MID-YEAR Five-year goals and annual objectives identified by National Board

MID-YEAR Date and location for National Meeting three years hence determined by National Board (2000 in West Region)

MID-YEAR Evaluation interview with Executive Director conducted by President, President-Elect, and Past President. Report prepared for mid-year National Board Meeting

MID-YEAR National Committees approved by National Board

MID-YEAR Committees appointed by President-Elect

JUL 1 National Committee Mid-Year Reports due to Executive Director (use National Committee Report Form, page C-5)

JUL 1 Nomination for National 2nd Vice President due to National Office (W-1997, NC-1998, NE-1999, SO-2000). Use Form J-5.

JUL 1 News copy deadline for August Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter

JUL 1 Ballots from state chapters due to National Office for:

- National Distinguished Service Ruby Award

- Regional Distinguished Service Award

- Regional Mid-Career Award

- Regional Team Award

Ballots postmarked after July 1 will not be counted

AUG 1 Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter mailed

SEPT 1 For 1997 only: Year-end reports from National Committees due to Executive Director to ensure inclusion in Annual Report for National Council (use National Committee Report Form, page C-5)

ANNUAL CALENDAR

Page 3

SEP 30 Final payment of National dues for all chapter members for current year due to National Office. For deaths and members leaving extension, this is the final submission date. [Each chapter's total membership number will be used to determine the chapter's voting delegate representation for the next 12 months.]

OCT 1 News copy deadline for November Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter

OCT 1 Dues for next fiscal year payable for 90 days (i.e., 1998 dues for 1997 . . .)

OCT Galaxy Conference October 12 to 16 in Cincinnati, Ohio - includes Awards Recognition and National Council Annual Meeting

NOV For 1997 only (earlier for Galaxy): Registration due to Executive Director for state delegate(s) attending the National Meeting

NOV 1 Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter mailed

DEC 1 List of chapter officers for current year due to Executive Director to assure inclusion in Officers' Directory - printed and distributed at Regional Meetings each year (use New State Chapter Officers Report Form, page N-34)

Submission via e-mail preferred.

DEC Meeting of National Board in conjunction with the National Meeting

Committee preliminary plan of work presented at pre-board meeting of National Meeting (use National Committee Plan of Work Form, page C-4)

DEC National Committee year begins at National Conference

DEC National Committees meet with participants at National Meeting to discuss committee plans

DEC National Committee plan of work approved at board meeting immediately following National Meeting

DEC 31 Payment of current National dues for all chapter members due to National Office (use Periodic Chapter Financial Report Form, page M-30) Dues are delinquent after December 31.

ANY TIME National Dues Payments - Anytime

ANNUAL CALENDAR

Page 4

State Award and Membership Certificate requests for any of the following (use Chapter Certificate Order Form, page K-14):

- State Distinguished Service Award

- State Friend of Extension Award

- State Mid-Career Award

- State Early Career Award

- State Retiree Service Award

- State Team Award

- State Meritorious Support Service Award

- State Visionary Leadership Award

- State 25-Year Career Service Award

- New Member Certificates

- Life Member Certificates

- Retirement Recognition

- Generic Certificate for State Specific Awards such as Meritorious Service, etc.

Any of the supplies/resources listed on pages P-1, P-2, P-3 (use Supply/Request Form, pages P-4 and P-5)

Any of the jewelry shown and described on page P-6 (use National Epsilon Sigma Phi Jewelry Order Form, page P-7)

Submit applications for mini-grants and professional development loans.

This is a summary of some significant developments where Epsilon Sigma Phi was directly involved--in the past and into the present.

HISTORICAL ACHIEVEMENTS

* Had input into a decision by the Civil Service Commission that Cooperative Extension agents were Federal employees eligible for Federal retirement, group life, health, and disability insurance programs.

* Suggested a Congressional resolution naming the Knapp and Wilson arches across Independence Avenue between the two USDA buildings.

* Helped in achieving academic status for Extension professionals through their universities.

* Sponsored and paid for the book, Spirit and Philosophy of Extension Work.

* Obtained for Extension availability of U.S. Federal stores, excess federal property, and the right to occupy Federal office space.

* Helped to prevent Revenue Sharing Bill S1615 and "Rural Development" Bill S2220 from passing in their original form, which would have affected Extension adversely.

* Developed the "Extension Workers' Creed", currently called the "Extension Professionals' Creed".

* Helped to delay mandatory Social Security which would strip Extension professionals of their Federal retirement privileges.

* Established a National Epsilon Sigma Phi Foundation to support professionalism programs/projects including scholarships, workshops, credit courses, etc. for Extension staff.

* Sponsored the book, The People and the Profession.

* Provided support for FAIR (Fund for Assuring Independent Retirement).

* Developed Life Membership certificate.

* Developed model for uniform accounting of State and National financial records.

* Revised Constitution and Bylaws to include the Amended Articles of Incorporation to qualify for 501(c)(3) classification.

* Received IRS approval of change in classification to an Educational Fraternity.

* Participated in establishment of the Joint Council of Extension Professionals (JCEP).

RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS

* Developed and implemented a Futures Plan (1993).

* Established a new National Board structure (1993).

* Started having National Meeting separate from Land-Grant meeting with some time devoted to professional development (1993).

* Had scholarship auction at National Meeting to raise professional development funds (1993, 1994).

* Assisted with planning the Public Issues/Leadership Development Seminar sponsored by JCEP (1993, 1994, 1995).

SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS FOR EPSILON SIGMA PHI

Page 2

* Provided scholarships to attend National Meeting (1994) and Public Issues/Leadership Development Seminar (1994, 1995).

* Develops Epsilon Sigma Phi five-year goals and annual objectives.

* Provides scholarships, grants, and loans.

* Supports annual Regional Workshops, both professionally and financially.

* Publishes an Epsilon Sigma Phi Newsletter quarterly.

* Recognizes outstanding achievement of Extension professionals and friends of Extension on a state, regional, and national basis with awards of recognition.

* Provides strong support for the Journal of Extension.

* Cooperates with and assists other countries in developing chapters of Epsilon Sigma Phi and recognizes individuals who have made significant international contributions.

* Maintains computer file of all active and life member records for greater accuracy, efficiency, and economy in maintaining membership records and mailing lists.

* Encourages greater involvement of retired member in the affairs of Epsilon Sigma Phi and Extension in general.

* Carefully reviews and audits Chapter membership records to be consistent with National Office records and visa versa.

* Provides Chapter Handbook, in notebook form, for use by all chapter officers, and issues an updated supplement annually.