The Association of Multicultural Scientists (AMS) is a graduate student-run organization seeking to promote the advancement of diversity and inclusion within biomedical sciences by supporting individuals from groups that have historically been underrepresented in biomedical research and science. AMS is founded on the premise that in order to establish and maintain diversity within the scientific community, it is imperative that members belonging to historically underrepresented groups be present, active, and supported. AMS believes that in order to foster welcoming environments for all students, staff, and faculty, proactive initiatives must be in place. Our primary role is to assist members by offering programs and support which will meet academic, social, and professional needs in an atmosphere of cultural context and comfort. This organization is open to all students, faculty, and staff with an interest in fostering and supporting diversity in biomedical research and science.

AMS is a student organization formed and led by graduate students in the biomedical sciences at the University of Iowa.

We welcome new members:

• Undergraduate students
• Graduate students (including MSTP)
• Post-doctoral fellows
• Faculty

All individuals with an interest in fostering and supporting diversity in the biomedical sciences are invited to participate.



March 25, 2014

Article I- Purpose

The purpose of the Association of Multicultural Scientists (AMS) is as follows:

• Assist students in the successful completion of their graduate studies by offering educationally purposeful activities and support in meeting their academic, professional, and social needs in an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment.
• Promote awareness within the university’s scientific community of the growing presence of well-rounded and qualified graduate students from a variety of cultures and backgrounds.
• Promote awareness of other student organizations and programs through joint sponsorships of activities.
• Improve the recruitment, retention, and support of students from traditionally underrepresented populations.

Article II- Membership

In no aspect of its programs shall there be any difference in the treatment of persons on the basis of race, national origin, color, creed, religion, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preference, or any other classification which would deprive the person of consideration as an individual. The organization will guarantee that equal opportunity and equal access to membership, programming, facilities, and benefits shall be open to all persons.

There shall be one class of membership in the organization: Regular Membership. All current students in the Biosciences and graduate programs at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine are welcome along with those dedicated to the purpose of this organization shall be eligible for regular membership upon acceptance.

To become a member, one must complete the membership application form and return to the Secretary. No membership dues will be accepted at this time.

Article III- Officers and Duties (AMS Leadership)

Administration

The officers of this association shall consist of Administrative Chair (President), Records Chair (Vice President), Fiscal Management Chair, Social Chair, Professional Development Chair, and Membership/Recruitment Chair.

a. Administrative Chair (President) - Preside over all meetings and act as the official spokesperson of the association. Initiate Executive Committee meetings and serve as the chairperson for the committee.

b. Records Chair (Vice President) - Handle all correspondence and record the minutes of all meetings. Be responsible for Constitutional knowledge, recommendations, updates, and re-ratification. Be responsible for organization registration. Develop recognition materials for student members who experience personal or professional achievements.

c. Fiscal Management Chair- Produce semi-annual reports. Develop a budget for the organization for the next year and update as needed, in consultation with the Office of Cultural Affairs and Diversity Initiatives staff.

d. Social Chair- Coordinate social events, not related to professional development. Plan community service activities within and outside of the university.

e. Professional Development Chair – Organize events that support students in their efforts to complete their graduate and/or professional degree.

f. Membership/Recruitment Chair- Develop and organize organizational pamphlets, fliers, and other information that is used to recruit new members. Maintain membership list. Develop organization’s newsletter. Be responsible for development and upkeep of the organization’s email account and social media network accounts. Maintain a website for the organization.

Qualifications of leadership roles for AMS are as follows:

• Strong commitment to fostering diversity within the biosciences
• Ability to serve as a role-model for their peers
• Strong leadership traits along with leadership experience

Committees

The standing committee of this association shall be the Executive Committee.

a. It consists of the Administrative, Records, Fiscal Management, Social, Professional Development, and Membership/Recruitment Chairs.

b. It sets meeting dates for the association, determines, committee assignments and objectives for each academic year.

c. It is accountable to the General Body and none of its acts shall conflict with the goals and objectives of the organization or the decisions made by the vote of full members.

d. It determines all questions of policy and will administer affairs of AMS.

Social and Professional Development committees may be established as determined by the respective Chairs.

Special ad hoc committees may be established to carry out special assignments and may be convened by any Chair.

Article IV- Advisor

AMS will have a faculty advisor. Although this is a student organization where students are encouraged to take initiative of the direction of the program, our advisor will:

• Help facilitate meetings
• Serve as point of contact for any questions, issues and/or concerns
• Call special meetings as needed for conflict resolution, etc.

Article V- Meetings

Meetings will be held according to students’ schedules each semester. Thus, meeting times are subject to change. Campus programs such as guest speakers, professional development, and community-service will be held throughout the academic year. All members are encouraged to participate in the planning process. The president and faculty advisor have the authority to call special meetings.

Article VI- Elections

Leadership positions are flexible, meaning positions can be created as needed and are subject to change. Those who seek leadership positions should submit explanation of their qualifications and involvement with efforts seeking to foster diversity and inclusion. The material will be reviewed by current members and the advisor of AMS. If more than one individual seeks a specific position and they are not willing to share the responsibility, voting will take place. Members will be notified of elections one month in advance.

Article VII- Finances

Funding from events will come from donations, fundraisers, and support from the Carver College of Medicine’s Office of Cultural Affairs and Diversity Initiatives. At this time, there are no member dues. The Fiscal Management Chair will handle financial matters with the President, advisor, and staff in the office of Cultural Affairs and Diversity Initiatives.

Article VIII- Amendments

Amendments to the Constitution may be proposed by any member of the association. Such proposals must be submitted in writing to the Executive Committee for a first reading to the membership at the regular meeting prior to the meeting at which the proposed amendment is to be voted on. The mission and purpose of the association shall be revisited each year.

Members will be informed at the meetings, by email, and posting to the website.

At least 2/3 of the members present must agree with the amendment before it gets ratified.

All amendments or changes in the constitution will be submitted to the Student Recognition Board.

Article IX- Ratification

The Constitution of the Association of Multicultural Scientists (AMS) at the University of Iowa’s Carver College of Medicine may be ratified by a 2/3 vote of attending members.