National Parliamentarian (Vol. 84, No. 3)

Hit a Homerun

with the NAP Educational Foundation

Join the NAP Educational Foundation (NAPEF) at Truist Park on Friday, September 8, 2023, to watch the Atlanta Braves take on the Pittsburgh Pirates! This event is part of the NAP Biennial Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, September 8-12, 2023. The fundraiser will take place in the Hank Aaron Terrace and ticket prices include a $40 donation to the NAP Educational Foundation (NAPEF).

Gates Open: 5:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

First Pitch: 7:20 p.m.

Tickets: $125 each

Evening Includes:

• Admission to the ballgame

• Ballpark-style buffet dinner open through the 5th inning

• Air-conditioned indoor or outdoor seating

• Access to a private bar and restrooms

• Extra innings: stay for fireworks at the end of the game!

Purchase tickets through the NAP Portal.

NatioNal ParliameNtariaN®

Official publication of the National Association of Parliamentarians®

213 S Main Street • Independence, MO 64050-3808 816 .833 .3892 • 888 .627 .2929

hq@nap2 .org • www .parliamentarians .org

Editor

Rosalie H Stroman, PRP npeditor@nap2 .org

Assistant Editor

TennieBee Hall

NP Review Committee

Dana Dickson, RP-R, Chair

Ronald Dupart, PRP Ferial Bishop, PRP

Parliamentary Research Committee

Rachel Glanstein, PRP Lyle Kleman, PRP-R Azella Collins, PRP Timothy Wynn, PRP, Parliamentarian/Consultant

NATIONAL PARLIAMENTARIAN®

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Submission Deadlines

Volume 85, No 1 (Fall 2023)

Volume 85, No 2 (Winter 2024)

Volume 85, No 3 (Spring 2024)

August 1, 2023

November 1, 2023

February 1, 2024

From the Editor

This issue of National Parliamentarian® includes a special section with details about the 44th Biennial Convention scheduled to be held September 6-10, 2023, in Atlanta, Georgia . You will find the convention schedule along with highlights and other information . Note the deadlines for registration and participation in convention activities .

In their article, Cynthia Mayo and Craig Mayo present changes that stimulate the need to Rescind or Amend Something Previously Adopted . Jonathan Jacobs focuses on the evolution of the special meeting and David Mezzera offers a way to have fun with parliamentary terms .

President Wanda M . Sims, PRP, has designated April 2023 Parliamentary Law Month . See NAP Connections for the complete presidential proclamation calling upon the districts, associations, units, and all members to observe the month with appropriate programs and activities .

This issue introduces the members of the National Association of Parliamentarians® who are announcing their candidacy for the 2023-2025 Board of Directors and the Commission on Credentialing . Their statements are provided to assist you in becoming familiar with the candidates .

We hope you enjoy this issue .

Rosalie H . Stroman, PRP

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Expanding Our Reach Through Education

It is no secret that NAP’s mission is to teach parliamentary procedure to the world. As this biennium moves ever closer to its conclusion, we have taken intentional steps to ensure that this mission is achieved through as many different methods as possible.

Traditional approaches to this have included unit and association workshops, national webinars, and district conferences . Most of our learning opportunities have been for either those seeking membership or members seeking certification or recertification . While this serves a great many of our members, we can do better .

One of these new approaches includes NAP University . This platform offers a multitude of coursework and programs geared toward all our members (credential and non-credential) and nonmembers with a need to learn more about parliamentary procedure . In the coming weeks, you will begin to see announcements about the first annual NAP Spring Conference . Rather than just offering training at our Fall in-person membership meetings, we will try something new—a Virtual Spring Conference . It’s an opportunity for us to offer additional training for our members, especially members that are unable to attend the membership meetings in the fall . It is my hope that the Spring Conference will become a tradition that members look forward to attending .

The Education Program Exchange encourages units and associations with programming to share with other units or associations who may lack the resources to create their own programs from scratch or lack presenters .

With a grant from the NAP Education Foundation, the Professional Development Committee is working on a new initiative to develop two of our most requested programs to be delivered to the wider membership . The Presiding and Serving (as a parliamentarian) practice labs were quite successful when first offered at our national events and will be offered to Districts and Associations in conjunction with their meetings . The grant will cover the travel and lodging for the facilitators and the districts and associations will provide the venue and setup .

Don’t forget June brings with it our 93rd Anniversary Celebration . Be sure to check your new e-mail and follow NAP on social media for more details as June approaches . As ever, should you have any concerns, comments, or suggestions, I welcome you to reach out to me, any member of the Board, or our headquarters staff . We appreciate your input as we continue to work toward our mission . The educational reformer John Dewey said, “Education is not preparation for life, education is life itself!” It will take all of us to create a world-class education program as we continue the journey, from good to great, together .

Wanda M . Sims, PRP 2021-2023 NAP President

to Rescind or Amend Something Previously Adopted

Cynthia Mayo, PRP and Craig Mayo, RP

Change is one constant we must live with to maintain continuing stability and a sense of balance . In organizations, decisions are made sometimes with careful research and thought . However, a sudden change in the environment, changes in laws, and change of members’ minds stimulate the need to Rescind or Amend Something Previously Adopted .

Provided that the course of action adopted at a previous meeting has not been completed, the action can be changed by making one of two motions: Rescind or Amend Something

Previously Adopted . Rescind is used when a member wishes to strike out an entire main motion, order, resolution, or rule that has been adopted at a previous meeting . 1, 2 On the other hand, Amend Something Previously Adopted means that only a part of the motion, or a different version of a specific part, needs to be changed . 3

What are the Rules and Steps to

Rescind or Amend Something

Previously Adopted?

While the changes effected by each motion are slightly different, both are two forms of one incidental main motion . 4 Both are processed by the same rules, according to RONR (12th ed) 35:2(1-8) . The rules follow and are listed based on the authors’

developed acronym: RS-DAVR which stands for:

1 . Recognition – Seek recognition by the chair to make the motion to Rescind or Amend Something

Previously Adopted . It is out of order when another member is speaking . However, notice of intent can be given, before the member begins to speak .

2 . Second – Once recognition is given and the member makes the motion, a second is required .

3 . Debatable – The presiding officer repeats the motion and calls for debate on the motion .

4 . Amendable – The motion is amendable by the process of primary and secondary motions .

5 . Voting – In an assembly, a two-thirds vote, majority with previous notice, or a vote of a majority of the entire membership is required . When the motion is applied to a constitution, or bylaws containing no provision relating to amendment, or special rules of order, (a) previous notice and a two-thirds vote or (b) a vote of a majority of the entire membership is required .

6 . Reconsider – Only a negative vote can be reconsidered .

other Factors to Know About Rescind and Amend Something Previously Adopted

In contrast to the motion to Reconsider, there is no time limit on making these motions after the adoption of measures to which they are applied, and they can be moved by any member, regardless of how the member voted on the original question . 5

These motions are not in order when:

a . It has previously been moved to reconsider the vote on the main motion, and the question can be reached by calling up the motion to Reconsider .

b . Something has been done, as a result of the vote on the main motion, that is impossible to undo .

c . A resignation has been acted upon, or a member has been elected to or expelled from membership or office, and the member was present or has been officially notified of the action . The only way to reverse an expulsion is to follow whatever procedure is prescribed by the bylaws . 6

Giving a notice

When no member is speaking, notice of the motions to Rescind or to Amend Something Previously Adopted may be given as follows:

MEMBER (obtaining the floor): “I give notice that at the next meeting, I will move to rescind the motion adopted on February 5, 2023, relating to funds

that will be expended on ‘state of the art’ technology . ”

CHAIR: “Notice has been given that at the next meeting, the member will move to rescind the motion adopted on February 5, 2023, relating to funds that will be expended on technology . ”

The secretary records the notice in the minutes . 7

Having trouble remembering if the motion should be to Rescind or Amend Something Previously Adopted?

Remember:

If you wish to change the Entire Main Motion, Order, Resolution, or Rule, use CE-MOR.R (Change Entire Motion, Order, Resolution, or Rule – Rescind).

If you wish to change a Part of the Main Motion, Order, Resolution, or Rule, use CP-MOR.R (Change Part Motion, Order, Resolution, or Rule – Amend Something Previously Adopted).

in Summary

Change is constant, and organizations can change an entire motion or parts of a motion previously adopted by motions to Rescind or Amend Something Previously Adopted . Each requires a second, is debatable, and is amendable .

In an assembly, when applied to a constitution or bylaws, adoption of these motions is subject to

requirements for amendment contained in the bylaws or constitution . When these motions are applied to a constitution or bylaws (with no provision made), or special rules of order, adoption requires a two-thirds

Take the Short Quiz.

vote with previous notice or a vote of a majority of the entire membership . Otherwise, adoption requires a majority vote with previous notice, two-thirds vote, or a vote of a majority of the entire membership .

1 . To change or strike out an entire main motion, order, resolution, or rule that has been adopted at a previous meeting, the motion must be to .

2 . A motion to Amend Something Previously Adopted means that the member wishes to change or substitute a part of the main motion, order, resolution, or rule . True False

3 . To move to Rescind or to Amend Something Previously Adopted, recognition by the chair is not needed . True False

4 . Rescind or Amend Something Previously Adopted is:

a . Amendable by privilege motions only . True False

b . Debatable when not referring to bylaws . True False

c . Can be reconsidered when it is an affirmative vote . True False

5 . When the motion to Rescind or Amend Something Previously Adopted involves matters other than the constitution, bylaws, or special rules, the vote required with notice is

6 . Scenario: A widespread practice of the Henrico Unit of Firefighters is to adopt all meeting agendas at the beginning of the meeting . The presiding officer issued printed agendas and asked members if there were additional items to be added . No one added any additional items and a member moved for the adoption of the agenda as presented . The agenda was adopted by unanimous consent . The program committee chairman was not present when the agenda was adopted but came 10 minutes after the meeting had started . He looked at the agenda and noticed that the report of the program committee was not on the agenda . He became upset because he needed program approval for the next business leadership forum . He raised his hand and when recognized told the president that his report needed to be given at the meeting today, but he did not see it listed on the adopted agenda .

Question: Explain what can be done, if anything, to allow the member to give the report; and if so, what motion and vote are required?

Answers on page 8.

Answers to Quiz

1 . . CE-MOR .R- Rescind

2 . . True

3 . . False

4 . . a . . False

b False

c False

5 Majority

6 The presiding officer can say without objection (unanimous consent), “The program report given by the chair will be added to the agenda under reports . .If there is no objection, the program report can be added to the agenda ”

If there is an objection, a motion is required The motion would be to Amend Something Previously Adopted . .It requires a second, is debatable, and requires a two-thirds vote NP

REFEREncES

1 RONR (12th ed ) 35: 1

2 Mayo, Cynthia, Booker, Margie Reconsider and Rescind: What Actions Needed? National Parliamentarian, Volume 81, No 4, Summer 2020, pp 8-11

3 RONR (12th ed ) 35:1-2

4 NAP Body of Knowledge, Domain Two (Motions) (NAP documents) .

5 RONR (12th ed .) 35:3

6 RONR (12th ed ) 35:6

7 RONR (12th ed ) 10:49-50

cynthia Mayo, PRP, is a past president of Virginia State Association of Parliamentarians (VSAP) She currently serves as District II Director .

raig Mayo, RP, is a member of the M . .Stanley Ryan Unit Richmond, Virginia

The Special “Special Meeting”

In general, special meetings had to be authorized in the bylaws . The first mention of how special meetings could be set was in the fourth edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Revised (1915), ( as listed in preface page of the current edition) which did note that a special meeting could be held by societies “whose by-laws provide for calling special meetings (pp . 62-3) . ” That is the way the requirements for special meetings were handled for more than 90 years, with perhaps some clarity being added in the 7th through 10th editions; special meetings could only be held if they were authorized in the bylaws . With the 11th edition, that changed . There could now be special meetings called for a specific reason, to hold a disciplinary trial (RONR 11th ed ., pp . 660-61, fn .) . This was repeated in the 12th edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (RONR 12th ed ., 63:21, fn . 9) .

There are advantages to using a special or adjourned meeting in these disciplinary cases . There may be multiple reasons for this, both procedural and practical; the practical ones might be less apparent . First, it gives the accused time to prepare a defense [RONR (12th ed .) 63:21], an important due process right . Second, disciplinary action is required to be

Jonathan M . .Jacobs, PRP-R

in executive session (63:2) . It is more convenient to keep nonmembers out of a separate meeting from the start, than it is to attempt to herd nonmembers out of the meeting room . A third reason, and perhaps the most practical one, is that disciplinary trials take up a lot of meeting time . Holding the trial in a different meeting, even one in the same session, permits necessary business, apart from the trial, to be conducted . Since these three features are applicable for both adjourned and special meetings, one could ask why there is a need to establish a method for calling special meetings for trials without bylaw authorization . The reason is that is that, while an adjourned meeting is generally more flexible1, there are situations where it cannot be used . An adjourned meeting is a continuation of the same session and that adjourned meeting cannot be held after the next regular session has begun (RONR 12th, 22:8) . Assume that there is a society, the Monday Music Club, that meets every Monday, except for national holidays; the bylaws do not authorize special meetings . On Monday, August 1, the Club adopts charges against a member . Their next meeting will be August 8, well below the 30 day notice

requirement in RONR, (12th ed . 63:21); in fact, the next four regular meetings will be held within that 30 day period . It is impossible to establish an adjourned meeting once an intervening regular meeting is held . Likewise, it would be impossible to schedule the trial several sessions in advance, until the September 122 meeting, except by using a bylaw or special rule of order (8:12) . It is this circumstance, and only in this circumstance, when the assembly may call a special meeting, even if there is no bylaw authorization for them to call it .

The Monday Music Club would schedule the special meeting by adopting a resolution, which would be an incidental main motion, along with other resolutions for the trial (62:21) . The special meeting could be held on or after August 31st, even though four regular meetings will occur between the scheduling and holding of the special meeting . It should be noted that, if no motion is pending, a motion to hold an adjourned meeting is also an incidental main motion . This topic came up, interestingly enough, on the YouTube video channel, Cult of RONR, 3 but in regard to a real organization, a national political party that meets biennially, as a convention of delegates, elected at the state level . The questions, asks by the co-hosts4, were if the convention could hold a special meeting for a trial, and if so, would the delegate body be the same . Further, what would happen if the

convention, after setting the special (or adjourned) meeting, the assembly would adjourn sine die .

The answers are interesting . Yes, a convention, as a type of assembly, can have adjourned meetings and the rule regarding special meetings for disciplinary action is not limited to a specific type of assembly . RONR (12th ed .) notes even when the assembly adjourns sine die, it “…will not meet again for a long time unless called into authorized special session under the bylaws or other rules (21:8) . ” Adjournment sine die would have no effect on this (or an adjourned meeting) . Normally, when the “… bylaws of an organization provide for the calling of a special convention after the regular convention has been held…,” new delegates should be chosen (Ibid) . However, the special convention session called by the assembly is not being called after the adjournment of the regular convention . It is being called by the regular convention during its meeting . The delegates for the special disciplinary convention are the same delegates as for the regular convention, just as it would be for an adjourned meeting of the convention . All that said, it would be advisable for a convention to handle disciplinary action at an adjourned meeting as opposed to a special meeting for disciplinary action .

This type of special meeting is quite similar to an adjourned meeting . There are but two differences . With the first, previously noted, there may

be several regular meetings between the current meeting and the special meeting, something not possible with an adjourned meeting . Second, while it is advisable for notice to be sent for an adjourned meeting, it is not required . Special meetings require notice, (RONR (12th ed .) 9:14; 63:21) . Some level of notice to the members

is required, though a specific time period is not listed in text . The special “special meeting,” one for disciplinary trial conducted by the assembly, gives a bit more flexibility to the assembly in dealing with disciplinary actions . It is especially useful for societies that have frequent regular meetings . NP

EnD noTES:

1 See “Flexibility of Adjourn Meetings,” National Parliamentarian, First Quarter, 2015, pp . .5-6, 11

2 September 5 would be a national holiday in the United States, Labor Day

3 https://www youtube com/watch?v=pMxNY4wPfTA&t=3476s Recorded: 11/13/22 Accessed: 11/18/22

4 The co-hosts are Caryn Ann Harlos, RP, and Mike Seebeck Ms Harlos is a the Secretary of the Libertarian National Committee; Mr . .Seebeck is a member of the Judicial Committee of the national Libertarian Party In addition, both are members of the national party’s bylaw committee, and the question was asked in regard to the national Libertarian Party .

The Bylaws of the Libertarian Party provide no mechanism for disciplining members and establish the current edition of RONR as its parliamentary authority The author opined that, hypothetically, the Libertarian National Convention could discipline a member, including expulsion from membership, using the methods in their adopted parliamentary authority He further opined that it would be more appropriate for the trial to be conducted at an adjourned meeting

WoRKS ciTED:

Robert, Henry M , Robert’s Rules of Order Revised (4th edition) (New York: William Morrow and Company, 1915)

Robert, Henry M , Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (11th Edition) Eds Sarah

Corbin Robert, et al ., Philadelphia: Da Capo Press, 2011, p . .59, ls . .18-23 .

Robert, Henry M , Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (12th Edition) Eds Sarah

Corbin Robert, Henry M . .Robert, III, William J . .Evans, Daniel H . .Honemann, Thomas J . .

Balch, Daniel E Seabold, and Shmuel Gerber, (New York: Public Affairs: 2020)

Jonathan M. Jacobs, PRP-R, has the unusual, and possibly unique, distinction of having contributed articles to National Parliamentarian® as a regular member, Registered Parliamentarian, Professional Registered Parliamentarian, and now as a Professional Registered Parliamentarian-Retired

44th NAP Biennial Convention

September 6-10, 2023

Join NAP in A-Town

nAP’s journey FRoM GooD To GREAT is going through Atlanta!

The 44th Biennial Convention will take place September 6-10, 2023, at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel . .Join hundreds of your fellow parliamentarians gathering there to learn, network, and conduct business (meetings)

This year’s event begins with a packed first day on Wednesday, September 6 . . Those new to the NAP Biennial Convention can attend the First Timer’s Orientation . .This will be followed by the Bylaws Forum and Delegate

Orientation The Opening Ceremony and first business meeting session kick off the afternoon and conclude with a Welcome Reception . .

See and experience parliamentary procedure in action as the business meetings continue on Thursday and Friday . .There is no better place to gain experience and learn parliamentary procedure than by attending the NAP business meetings . .Continue that education during Saturday’s workshops With 20 sessions to choose from, you’ll be sure to find quality education that fits your needs .

See you in Atlanta!

Where to Stay & How to Get There

The 2023 Convention will be held at the upscale Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia . .The hotel is located near the Cobb Galleria Centre, The Battery Atlanta, and Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves . .

The 2023 Convention rate is $144 (plus taxes) for king or double rooms.

Register by going to https://tinyurl com/2t3bytsr, by calling the hotel directly at 888.391.8724 or by scanning the QR code with your smart device . .The convention rate is effective for stays beginning Saturday, September 2, through Tuesday, September 12 . .Be sure to reserve your room early!

Reservation deadline is August 16, 2023.

Transportation to and from the Airport

The Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel is about 23 miles from the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport The best way to get to the hotel from the airport is by taxi, Uber, or Lyft

If driving to the hotel, the hotel offers discounted self-parking for $6

Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & convention center 2450 Galleria Parkway Atlanta, GA 30339 888 .391 .8724

Explore the Big Peach

Once you arrive at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel, you’ll be just steps away from some of the best dining, shopping, and entertainment Atlanta has to offer . .The Battery Atlanta offers the perfect mix of boutique shopping, craft eateries for every palette, and a variety of entertainment options . .In addition, The Battery is adjacent to Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves and the site of the NAPEF Fundraiser on Friday, September 8, 2023 . .

You’ll find a diverse arts and cultural scene closer to the city The High Museum of Art features over 18,000 works of art from around the world . . Visit the Martin Luther King Jr . .National Historic Park and peek inside the home where Dr King was born or join Atlanta’s Black History and Civil Rights Tour to explore the city’s key neighborhoods, landmarks, and more . .

Just a few blocks from the Martin Luther King Jr . .National Historic Park is downtown Atlanta . .Here you’ll find shopping, dining, and entertainment for every taste Speaking of taste, visit the tasting room at the World of Coca Cola and sample 100 different flavors After that refreshing stop, take a tour of Centennial Olympic Park and enjoy the gardens, Fountain of Rings, and The Spectacular – the parks Olympic rings and the perfect selfie spot

So come early and take advantage of all the capital of Georgia has to offer .

We look forward to seeing you there!

How to Register

Choose one of these convenient secure options to sign up early for the 44th Biennial Convention:

• Register online at napconvention com

• Register by mail or fax using the accompanying registration form

• Register by calling 816 .833 .3892

Whichever method you use, be sure to register early and save!

Registration & Activity Fees

Convention registration fees include admission to all business and educational sessions, including the Closing Ceremony Sunday; Welcome Reception Wednesday; buffet breakfasts on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday; Past-President’s Luncheon Thursday; Awards Luncheon Friday; and the Installation of Officers Dinner Saturday, and the Breakfast and Closing Ceremony Sunday As an added bonus, registrants will have online access to any supporting materials for educational sessions and free access to recordings of all educational sessions for up to 90 days after posting .

Saturday-only registration includes meals offered that day .

c A nc E ll AT ion P olic Y

Registration refund requests must be received in writing by NAP Headquarters no later than August 24, 2023 A $75 cancellation fee will apply No refunds will be issued for no-shows or cancellations received after August 24, 2023

A $30 handling fee will be assessed for all returned checks .

44th

Schedule at a Glance

2022 conVEnTion ScHEDUlE

September 6-10, 2023 • Atlanta, Georgia

Schedule is subject to change See napconvention com for the latest information

Meal functions in blue are included in the registration fee .

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

NAP Biennial Convention

2023 PoST-conVEnTion EVEnTS

Schedule subject to change . See napconvention .com for the latest information .

nAP PRoFESSionAl DEVEloPMEnT EVEnTS

Separate registration required .

Sunday, September 10, 2023

Monday, September 11, 2023

Tuesday, September 12, 2023

come early and explore the city over the labor weekend!Day

Meet the Candidates

2023-2025 BoARD oF DiREcToRS

Candidate statements are submitted for your information, as written. Primarily, they have not been edited.

Alison Wallis, PRP

Alison Wallis, PRP is dedicated to implementing parliamentary procedure as a means of making cooperative endeavors fair, inclusive, and efficient . National Association of Parliamentarians (NAP) Vice-President Wallis seeks the office of president to share her work ethic, sense of fairness, listening ability, and respect for fellow parliamentarians .

Alison, a member since 2003 and a Professional Registered Parliamentarian since 2005, has served NAP in many capacities, including providing educational presentations at national and association events, providing professional development training, serving on committees, and completing three terms on the Board of Directors . She served as president of the Louisiana Association and District Six Director . She is currently the secretary of the NAP Educational Foundation .

Additionally, Alison is active in other parliamentary groups . She served as president of the American Institute of Parliamentarians for three terms and president of the American College of Parliamentary Lawyers . By serving diverse parliamentary clients, she has garnered incisive “real life” learning experiences .

Alison’s goals include:

• increasing member participation in NAP’s endeavors,

• actively listening to members and providing honest and prompt communication,

• ensuring our credentials maintain the highest integrity,

• aggressively publicizing our organization, credentials, and educational opportunities, and

• working tirelessly to benefit our members .

Vic E -P RES i DE n T

Adam Hathaway, PRP

Adam Hathaway, a member of the National Association of Parliamentarians since 2005, is a practicing professional parliamentarian and currently serving his second term as a Director-at-Large .

Adam’s devotion to serving the public is demonstrated by his expertise with organizations of many types . He has a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Communication . Adam has served in leadership and board positions from the international to local levels, and is a faculty member on an international leadership training program .

Adam served as Albuquerque Parliamentarian Unit President, New Mexico State Association Secretary, Vice-President, President, and Parliamentarian for several years . He is also a past board member of the American Institute of Parliamentarians and member of the Green Gavel Electronic Unit, eNAP Unit, and the Electronic Association of Parliamentarians . Virtually and in-person, he has presented to audiences the world over, including at district workshops, leadership conferences and the NAP National Training Conference .

Adam has served NAP as Chairman of the Communications and Minutes Approval Committees, and as member of the Personnel, Association Management System, Strategic Planning, and New Member Orientation Committees .

For more information on Adam’s experience and vision, please visit his website at: AdamForNAPVP.com

Vic E -P RES i DE n T

carl nohr, PRP

I joined NAP in 2013 and became a PRP in 2018 . I am also credentialed as a corporate director through the Institute of Corporate Directors . I have served as a director on several provincial and national boards, including two terms as a director-at-large on the Board of NAP I have served as a President of a large professional association .

When I ran for election to the NAP Board in 2019, I told the story of how I found the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow when I discovered NAP. Since then, my appreciation for this organization and especially for its members has expanded immensely; my associations with NAP and my many parliamentary friends therein are a source of great joy .

All members of NAP need three things to succeed; a friend, access to education, and opportunities to serve . We are well on the path to providing all three, and I am committed to doing my best to stay the course to greatness .

It would be a privilege for me to serve you as Vice-President . I promise to fully exercise my core qualities of commitment, optimism, and vision on your behalf . Thank you .

Mona calhoun, PRP

Mona Calhoun has been a member of NAP for over 15 years and became a PRP in 2010 . She currently serves as the Secretary for NAP Board of Directors, the Chairman for the Professional Development and Policy Committees She has served as First Vice-President for the Sartwell-Tunstall Unit; Treasurer and Delegate for the Registered Parliamentarians Unit; and as Historian, Chair of Parliamentary Law Day, and Treasurer for DCAP. She has served as Chair of the Credentials Committee (2013 and 2015) and the Budget/Finance Chair for the 2015 NAP Biennial Conventions .

Mona possesses strong leadership, computer, and communication skills . She has served as secretary for a regional conference, two international committees, and a state professional organization . She currently serves as the President/ Chair-Elect for American Health Information Management Association . Mona has experience providing parliamentary services to civic and professional organizations, alumni associations, Student Government Associations, and Homeowners Associations .

Mona understands accurate and timely minutes serve as a guide, reference, defense, and history of actions taken . She is dedicated and committed to the work of the board, the responsibilities of the secretary, but more importantly to members and the effective operation of the association . Mona humbly asks for your support as NAP Secretary .

Daniel A. ivey-Soto, PRP

1 . Possesses a Master of Business Administration degree in addition to a Juris Doctor degree .

2 . Former Board Member of the international pension fund for the United Methodist Church . Over eight years and during a financial crisis, increased assets from $12 .5 Billion to $17 .3 Billion . Also, oversaw the creation of the first sustainable pension program in underdeveloped areas of Africa .

3 . Current Member and Former Chair of the New Mexico Finance Association Oversight Committee, overseeing 18 different programs requiring fiscal solvency .

4 . Executive Director of a 501(C)(3) non-profit, and shareholder of a Professional Corporation .

5 . Former Adjunct and Visiting Faculty at the Anderson Schools of Management, and at Highlands business school .

6 . Immediate Past President of the National Hispanic Caucus of State Legislators, representing Latino Legislators in 35 states, and increasing assets by over $1 Million dollars .

7 . Former Member of the NAP Board; also served as a Member of the NAP Bylaws Revision Committee .

8 . Former District 6 Director; Former President of the New Mexico State Association of Parliamentarians; Former President of Albuquerque Parliamentary Unit .

9 . Member of NAP since 1995 .

Robert G. Schuck, PRP

Robert G . Schuck, a member of the National Association of Parliamentarians (NAP) and the Wisconsin State Association of Parliamentarians (WSAP) since 1998, is seeking office as NAP Treasurer .

Robert has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with an emphasis in Accounting from Trinity International University, College of Arts and Sciences, Deerfield, Illinois his Registered Parliamentarian and Professional Registered Parliamentarian credentials in 1999 .

Robert’s NAP leadership positions include: WSAP treasurer and current president, Immediate past NAP Director Representative, Immediate past NAP District Four Director, District Conference Parliamentarian, District Conference Coordinator, Youth Committee, Biennial Convention Credentials Committee chair, Convention Minutes Approval Committee, Registered Examiners Committee, Madison Unit past president, Milwaukee County Unit secretary-treasurer, and Wisconsin Junior Parliamentarians Youth Group sponsor .

Additionally, Robert served two terms as treasurer for the American Institute of Parliamentarians .

Robert is a practicing parliamentarian throughout Wisconsin and other states . He assists organizations with amending and revising bylaws, presents parliamentary workshops, and teaches membership classes to prospective new members .

Robert boasts a wealth of experience with budgets, finance, and business management . His loyalty, business acumen, and proven teamwork on the national level would ensure that NAP’s accounts and investments are adroitly monitored and expeditiously reported to the membership .

Meet the Candidates

Marsha Thornton, PRP

Marsha Thornton, PRP seeks your support for the office of treasurer of the National Association of Parliamentarians (NAP) . Marsha has been a member of NAP since 2008 . She obtained the RP credential in 2013 and the PRP credential in 2018 .

Marsha has a finance background with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), both from Texas A&M University – Commerce . She also holds a Master of Arts degree in Conflict Resolution from Southern Methodist University . Marsha had a 27+ year career with a Fortune 50 company . In her last role, she was the Director of Financial Analysis, supporting the company’s Business Voice Division . In that role, her responsibilities included, but were not limited to, leading a team of forecasters to develop budgets for a multibillion-dollar portfolio and conducting profit and loss evaluations . In this role, as a strategic partner to a Vice President, she provided recommendations on operational changes for margin expansion .

Marsha has served as a budget chair, treasurer and financial secretary in various groups and has served as President of the Crossroads Unit . In the treasurer’s role, she wishes to use her wealth of knowledge and experience for the benefit of NAP.

John Berg, PRP

I grew up on the 1951 Robert’s Rules of Order Revised . I discovered and joined the NAP 2007 and became a PRP in 2013 .

Before my first NAP convention, I wondered if having hundreds of parliamentarians in the same room would be like a cat fight . I was impressed with the quality of the meeting . Not everyone agreed on the issues, but they all understood and appreciated the process which is parliamentary procedure . If only we could share this understanding and appreciation with all those who are plagued with inefficient and contentious meetings .

I have been a member of three units in the Washington State Association of Parliamentarians, and currently serve as a unit president . In WSAP, I have been treasurer, vice president, president three years, and now again as treasurer . I have had seventeen articles published in the National Parliamentarian and one in the AIP’s Parliamentary Journal . I have taught workshops at the NAP National Training Conferences and Convention, and served on the NAP Edit and Review Committee .

After serving concurrently as president of three different state organizations, I was elected to the South Kitsap School Board in Kitsap County, Washington in 2019, and elected its president in 2021 .

Meet the Candidates

Elizabeth Sapp James, PRP

In 2010, as the Charter President of Gulf Coast Parliamentarians Unit, I couldn’t have imagined that I’d earn a PRP designation (2017), become an Association President (2021-2023), or become an NAP instructor and teach on every level .

You might say that I’m a bit of a maverick, with energy that is contagious . I’ve never met a stranger, been shy with my opinion, allergic to work or unwilling to learn . I’m a servant-leader! I thrive in an unscripted environment, adept at efficiently and effectively prioritizing a broad range of responsibilities that consistently meet or exceed expectations . I have a knack for fostering teamwork in diverse cultures that bridge technical and business perspectives sparking innovate solutions, creating best practices and supporting organizational management .

A fervent disciple of education, I hold a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Project Management . However, the money shot is in my practical experience . As a project management professional coupled with servitude in leadership roles (Unit – President, Vice President, Treasurer, Parliamentarian; Association –President, Vice President, Treasurer, Recording & Corresponding Secretary; National – Professional Development Committee), I have a unique vantage point and laboratory to practice and perfect serving as a NAP Director-at-Large .

Di RE c T o R -A T - lARGE

Susan Eads Role, PRP

As director-at-large, I will work to preserve and build upon the impressive strides NAP has made in the areas of financial management, education, technology, credentialing, and staff development . I am committed to maintaining first-rate services to our members while growing our membership . I am a proponent of high-quality, sustainable credentialing programs in which NAP credentials are attainable, reliable, and understood by the public . Having spent much of my career in public service, the law, and government relations, I am eager to utilize my management and leadership skills on the Board of Directors . I joined NAP in 1995 while working for a Member of the U .S . Congress and serving as a member parliamentarian of the international women’s fraternity Kappa Alpha Theta . I sought and earned NAP credentials in 2011 and 2012 and later founded a consulting firm providing parliamentary procedure and governance services . In the last 10 years, I have held various offices and chairmanships at the unit, state, district, and national levels of NAP. Since 2020, I have served on the Commission on Credentialing and currently serve as its vice-chair . After living in Washington, DC, (District Two) for more than 35 years, I recently relocated to New Orleans (District Six) .

Meet the Candidates

Sandra Harrell cook, PRP

I have been a member of NAP since 2011 and earned a PRP in 2019 . My service in NAP includes Secretary of the Sartwell-Tunstall Unit; Corresponding Secretary of the District of Columbia Association of Parliamentarians (DCAP); and Chairman of the DCAP Audit and Bylaws Committees . My involvement on the national level includes serving on the Professional Development Committee and as a facilitator for the PQE, PRC, and Train-the-Trainer Course .

Currently, I am a Commissioner on the Commission on Credentialing where I serve as Secretary . During my short tenure, the Commission worked extensively with other NAP committees to ensure a high-quality credentialing program, attainable for members and sustainable for NAP. The outcomes of this collaboration resulted in 80 candidates earning their RP credential and the establishment of the Registered Parliamentarian Credentialing Examination . Additionally, for various organizations, I have served as parliamentarian and presiding officer and presented workshops on parliamentary procedure .

I believe in the mission of the NAP and respect the work of the Commission on Credentialing, past and present . I desire to continue my service on the Commission to ensure that our profession maintains its excellence in credentialing . I humbly ask for your support in continuing as Commissioner .

David i. Jackson, PRP

David I . Jackson, PRP, is an experienced leader and professional educator who will continue to work diligently to support and improve the credentialing processes of the NAP. David will focus his energy towards:

• continual evaluation of the RP testing platform;

• review of the question performance; and

• development of new testing material .

David has been active in the leadership of his local units . He is currently serving as President, served as an NAP delegate, and currently as a Commissioner on the Commission on Credentialing . In addition, David has served in several leadership roles on the national level, including three terms as the American Academy of PAs Vice President, and Speaker of the House of Delegates . David has experience in the role of parliamentarian and presiding, and has served local, regional, and national organizations .

David was elected to the Commission on Credentialing in 2022, and has been instrumental in developing and launching an examination so that members can attain a credential .

David has the skills and knowledge to advance the mission of NAP and the Commission on Credentialing . David asks for your support and vote to continue delivering meaningful results .

Steven Walls, PRP

My name is Steven Walls, PRP, and I am writing to solicit your support for my candidacy for the Commission on Credentialing . I have served as a commissioner since the fall of 2022, and I am eager to continue the valuable work that the Commission has produced since its inception in 2015 . I am confident that I have the skills, experience, and commitment needed to serve effectively on this commission . Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a deep commitment to parliamentary procedure and the principles of effective governance . I have been a member of the National Association of Parliamentarians since 2003, and have served in various roles within the organization, including as a member of the Membership and Registration Examiners committee . Through these experiences, I have gained a deep understanding of the challenges faced by those working to promote the need for trained parliamentarians, and have developed a strong appreciation for the importance of high-quality credentialing in ensuring that our profession is held in high regard . Working collaboratively with all stakeholders of NAP, I will continue to make a valuable contribution to this commission, and I would be honored to continue to serve in this capacity .

Parliamentary Terms

By David Mezzera, PRP

Are you familiar with this old joke? “I can’t seem to get rid of this parliamentary cold . . . sometimes the eyes have it and sometimes the nose!” This joke only works because of the use of homophones in the English language . In this case, the word “eyes” is spelled differently but has the same sound as the parliamentary term “ayes,” as does “nose” and “noes . ”

To have some fun with parliamentary terms, see if you can think up other words common in the English language that have a homophone (i .e . a different spelling but the same sound) with a parliamentary word or part of a parliamentary term . The list on page 37 has 25+ such homophonic terms which may be found in the Index to the 12th edition of RONR (as an example: “bored” = “board”) . See if you can come up with at least ten more words off the top of your head which are spelled differently but have the same sound as parliamentary terms . If you can, take a bough (bow)!

Answers on page 37.

David Mezzera, PRP, is a past president of the California State Association of Parliamentarians and past District 8 Director

&Questions Answers

The intent of this column is to provide general answers or advice (not formal, official opinions) about the questions asked . The answers are based on the most recent edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, unless otherwise indicated, and do not take into account such governing authorities as statutes, bylaws, adopted special rules of order, other parliamentary authorities, or earlier editions, except as specifically mentioned .

The abbreviations used in these questions and answers are explained in National Parliamentarian Vol . 83, No . 1, Fall 2021, p . 18 .

Questions should be emailed to npquestions@nap2.org.

QQuESTION:

If the bylaws say non-voting ex-officio members can attend meetings but are not counted toward the quorum, are they allowed to make motions and speak in debate?

ANSwER:

An ex-officio member of a board is a “full-fledged board member with all the accompanying rights” [RONR (12th ed) 47:3] . Further, if the ex-officio member “is under the authority of the society (that is, if he is a member, an employee, or an elected or appointed officer of the society), there is no distinction between him and the other board members . If the ex-officio member is not under the authority of the society, he has all the privileges of board membership, including the right to make motions and to vote, but none of the obligations …” [RONR (12th ed .) 49:8] . And finally, “The rules affecting ex-officio members of committees are the same applying to ex-officio members of boards . ” See RONR (12th ed .) 50:16 .

Consequently, a non-voting ex-officio member would still be allowed to make motions and speak in debate, since the bylaws only state that they are non-voting and not counted toward the quorum . If further restrictions are desired, such as to prohibit these non-voting ex-officio members from making motions, those would need to be placed in the bylaws .

It should be noted that an ex-officio board or committee member who is not under the authority of the society, e .g . a person who

&Questions Answers

is not a member of the society, is a member only of the board or committee he or she is serving on and does not become a member of the society by virtue of being on a particular board or committee

[RONR (12th ed .) 47:3] .

QQuESTION:

I serve on a board of directors where we have one person who always likes to bring up motions that could be harmful to the group. I learned about the motion, Objection to the Consideration of the Question, so that I could stop consideration of these harmful motions, as long as the rest of the board is in agreement with the objection.

However, at the last meeting, a motion was made to include a paragraph in the minutes of the current meeting, and this paragraph had some comments that I found to be objectionable and false. I therefore objected to the consideration of the motion to include this paragraph in the minutes, but the president ruled that the objection was out of order and could not be applied to this particular motion. I thought that I was able to object to any potentially harmful motion. why couldn’t I object to the motion to include this paragraph in the minutes?

ANSwER:

The purpose of an Objection to the Consideration of the Question is to allow a group to avoid any consideration of an original main motion when it believes it would be undesirable for the group to even bring it up [RONR (12th ed .) 26:1] . An objection cannot be applied to incidental main motions .

Briefly, original main motions are substantive questions that are new subjects . Incidental main motions are incidental to or relate to the business of the group, or its past or future action . So, a motion to include something in the minutes would be considered an incidental main motion, since the wording of the minutes are incidental to and relate to the business of the group and include its action (which will be in the past once the meeting adjourns and the minutes are drafted) .

&Questions Answers

Therefore, an Objection to the Consideration of the Question can not be applied to a motion relating to the minutes, whether it’s to include something in the current minutes or to correct something in the minutes proposed for approval . Even if the minutes were already approved, and this person moved to Amend Something Previously Adopted to include an additional paragraph in those minutes, an Objection to the Consideration of the Question could not be applied, since the motion to Amend Something Previously Adopted is an incidental main motion . For more information about the difference between original and incidental main motions, see RONR (12th ed .) 10:2-7 .

QQuESTION:

My club bylaws have a required quorum of 10% of the current membership. This can sometimes be a problem because the membership varies between 200 and 300 members (people join and leave through the year), causing the exact quorum requirement to need recalculation prior to any meeting.

At our last meeting, the president stated that the required quorum was 25 members, and with only 10 members present, declared that there was no quorum (the meeting adjourned shortly thereafter). Before adjournment, a member raised a point of order that the announcement of the required quorum was incorrect, that it should actually be 26 members needed for quorum since the total number of current members was 255. The president ruled the point of order not well-taken because even though the wrong number was stated, there was still not a quorum present. was this correct?

ANSwER:

When a member believes that the rules are being violated, they may raise a Point of Order to call upon the chair for a ruling and to enforce the rules [RONR (12th ed .) §23] . A Point of Order can be applied to any breach of the assembly’s rules, and generally must be raised at the time of the breach (there are exceptions that don’t apply to this particular situation) .

&Questions Answers

In this case, the Point of Order was raised at the time of the possible breach, but no breach actually occurred . The only error was that the president stated an incorrect number of members required for a quorum . There was no breach of the rules, because regardless of the exact number stated by the president, there was no quorum, and the president correctly declared that there was no quorum . If the president had stated that there was a quorum when there wasn’t, or that there was no quorum when there were enough members present, then a rule would have been broken . However, no rule was broken, and the president made the correct ruling on the Point of Order .

RONR (12th ed .) 40:3 notes that a quorum based on a percentage of the membership “has the disadvantage of requiring recomputation and may lead to confusion—for example, when the secretary, or other officer who is in a position to certify as to the current number of members for purposes of the percentage calculation, is absent . ” If the club prefers to keep the percentage calculation, the bylaws could be amended to require that the “current membership” be calculated as of a certain date, e .g ., January 31 of the current year, or a certain number of days prior to the meeting, e .g . 30 days, so that the required number wouldn’t have to be calculated on the spot at the meeting .

QQuESTION:

Our bylaws, amended in mid-2022, say that, “During the first quarter of each even-numbered year, elections shall be held to fill leadership roles as defined in the following sub-section.” would/ could this sentence be considered in the nature of a rule of order, and therefore be suspendable to allow for the election to be prior to that time? There is no proviso that would allow elections prior to 2024.

ANSwER:

It’s unfortunate that no proviso was adopted with the bylaw amendment . When a bylaw amendment is adopted, unless there is a proviso or some other rule that delays its effect, that amendment becomes part of the bylaws immediately [RONR (12th ed .) 57:7] .

&Questions Answers

In general, bylaws cannot be suspended unless the certain sections provide for their suspension or are in the nature of rules of order [RONR (12th ed .) 2:8(4); 3] . Per RONR (12th ed .) 2:15, “rules of order derive their proper substance largely from the general nature of the parliamentary process rather than from the circumstances of a particular assembly”.

Bylaws typically include a time when officers, in this case, leadership roles, are elected: for example, an annual meeting, or another designated meeting in the bylaws, would be held “for the purpose of electing officers [and other business]…” [RONR (12th ed .) 56:63(2)] . Designation of a particular meeting for particular purposes is not purely procedural, and is not in the nature of a rule of order .

The bylaws need to be reviewed carefully, and at least two possibilities could be suggested:

1 . Depending upon your custom and on the bylaws relating to terms of office and the filling of vacancies, it is possible that the organization could consider the leadership roles vacant, and then fill the vacancies as provided in the bylaws . If the bylaws state that the leaders continue in office until their successors are elected, then the leaders could instead choose to resign, and then the vacancies could be filled as provide by the bylaws .

2 . If the bylaws provide for the calling of a special meeting, you might be able to convene a special meeting to “amend” the amendment by adding a proviso or similar transitional language .

Questions & Answers Research Team

Azella Collins, PRP

Lyle Kleman, PRP-R

Rachel Glanstein, PRP Timothy Wynn, PRP, Parliamentarian/Consultant

Answer Key

Having Fun with Parliamentary Terms from page 31

Here is a sample alphabetical list of common words which have a homophone in the parliamentary world . For each, a page number in the 12th edition Index is shown for the parliamentary word or term . Did you discover any others?

1 . adze = adds (words) [652]

2 . bored = board [657]

3 . counsel = council [669]

4 . daze = days (of meeting) [669]

5 . dos (and don’ts) = dues [673]

6 . ewe = you [714]

7 . facts = fax [675]

8 . flor = floor [676]

9 . four = for (ballots) [676]

10 . know = no (voice vote) [688]

11 . lyre = liar [682]

12 . male = mail [682]

13 . mane = main (motion) [682]

14 . neigh = nay [687]

15 . ore = or (vs . and) [690]

16 . our = hour (of meeting) [678]

17 . poles = polls [693]

18 . raze = raise (question) [698]

19 . reed = read (papers) [698]

20 . right = write(-in) [714]

21 . role = roll (call) [703]

22 . seam = seem (to have it) [705]

23 . sew = so (moved) [706]

24 . thyme = time (of meting) [711]

25 . vise = vice(-president) [712]

26 . won = one (person) [690]

27 . writes = rights (of absentees) [651]

28 . yeah = yea [714]

Commission on Credentialing

introduction

In the previous issue of the National Parliamentarian, the Commission on Credentialing provided an update on some of the ongoing work of our credentialing programs . This article will focus on the new Registered Parliamentarian Credentialing Examination and provide an update on the Criteria for Credentialing .

Establishing the Registered Parliamentarian Credentialing Examination

The second major project the Commission undertook was replacing the Schoology program with a method to administer the RP exam that was both attainable for the candidate and sustainable for NAP. As a result, the Commission drafted a recommendation for the RP credential, which was subsequently adopted by MREC and the Board . The recommendation established the Registered Parliamentarian Credentialing Examination (RPCE) . The specific recommendations are set out below . 1

Brief Description

The Registered Parliamentarian Credentialing Exam (RPCE) is

administered by the Commission on Credentialing in conjunction with the Membership and Registration Examiners Committee (MREC) and is composed of the multiple-choice exam and the performance exam . It is uniformly administered, scored, and evaluated .

The RPCE is administered on a single day with the multiple-choice exam given in the morning and the performance exam given in the afternoon . The RPCE is available during seven-day examination windows that are determined by the Commission on Credentialing . RPCE applicants must register at least twenty-one days prior to the start of the examination window .

Detailed Description

The Commission on Credentialing has recommended to the MREC, and the NAP Board of Directors, that the legacy Registered Parliamentarian Exam (legacy RP Exam) be replaced with the RPCE .

Currently, the legacy RP Exam is not being utilized, and a review is underway to update the exam to the 12th edition of Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, unless a new examination is introduced . 2

C .J . .Cavin, PRP

1 The RPCE Proposal was adopted by the NAP Board of Directors on November 28, 2022 .

The RPCE will be administered during a one-day period and will be composed of two sections .

Section I will consist of one-hundred multiple choice questions derived from the Registered Parliamentarian Performance Expectations . Section I will be automatically scored by the examination platform .

Section II will be a performance exam, also derived from the Registered Parliamentarian Performance Expectations, with scenarios that each candidate must complete in writing . Section II will be scored by trained examiners .

For candidates to be successful, they must objectively demonstrate core competencies needed to obtain the RP credential and must demonstrate the application of the core knowledge and basic business skills needed by every parliamentarian . Within 60 days of the close of each examination window, candidates will receive notification of their examination results and whether they have attained the RP credential .

A sample of practice questions for both the multiple-choice exam and the performance exam will be available; however, the questions utilized for the actual examination will not be publicly available nor will each subsequent exam be the same . 3

The RPCE will be offered during an examination window at regular intervals . The examination window will occur quarterly . This regular

interval system will allow the exam materials to be regularly evaluated and improved for future usage and allow the examiners notice of when their services will be needed and the associated deadlines . This continuous improvement approach, utilizing psychometric analysis of examination data collected, will lead to improved examination instruments and examination experiences for the candidates .

The Commission on Credentialing will be administering and analyzing the examinations and recommending to the MREC that the RP credential be awarded upon successful passage of the RPCE by candidates . The RPCE will be proctored either in-person or using a virtual monitoring system that is approved by the Commission on Credentialing .

Schedule

The table at the top of page 40 contains the RPCE schedule for 2023 . These dates are based on actions adopted by the Board, MREC, and the Commission . Please note that the “Expected Notification Date” is an internal Commission deadline .

RPCE Testing Platform

NAP contracted with ExamSoft to manage and administer the Membership Examination and the RPCE . The Commission worked with ExamSoft to implement the testing environment . ExamSoft is a downloadable software, and it locks down the testing device . These security

2 The 1,200-question study guide is not being updated for credentialing purposes; however, the questions are being updated for educational purposes

3 https://www parliamentarians org/rp-credential/

January 10, 2023

April 4, 2023

July 4, 2023

October 10, 2023

January 31, 2023, April 7, 2023

March 31, 2023 to February 6, 2023

April 25, 2023, June 30, 2023

June 23, 2023 to May 1, 2023

July 25, 2023, September 29, 2023

September 22, 2023 to July 31, 2023

October 31, 2023, January 5, 2024

December 29, 2023 to November 6, 2023

features assist the Commission with ensuring the integrity of the exam .

Rules

The Examination Rules have been redeveloped and added to the NAP website . 4

Differences in Approach

The RPCE takes a different approach to credentialing than the previous versions of the exam, specifically the Schoology RP Program . The RPCE is a certification approach to credentialing . The Schoology RP program, pursuant its design, was an assessment-based certificate program . 5 Although this is a legitimate method to administer a credential, it is incompatible with NAP’s culture and the unique nature of our credentials . There are several major differences between a certification and an assessment-based certificate program . A few specific areas below are essential to highlight .

4 https://www parliamentarians org/rp-rules/

Updating the criteria for credentialing

For some, the change in direction and approach will undoubtedly be unsettling and take time to adjust; however, to expedite the transition and educate members on the new expectations, the Commission is preparing to release an updated Criteria for Credentialing . This new publication will provide individuals seeking credentials with a comprehensive understanding of what is expected for both the RPCE and the Professional Registered Parliamentarian Credentialing Examination (PRPCE), which will be announced soon .

This new edition will contain an updated philosophies statement, the description for the RPCE, the RP performance expectations, the description for the PRPCE, and the PRP performance expectations . The Commission intends for this

5 Defining Features of Quality Certification and Assessment-Based Certificate Programs (2010, Institute for Credentialing Excellence)

Assessment-Based certificate certification Program

The primary focus of an assessment-based The primary focus of a professional/ certificate program is on facilitating the personnel certification program is on accomplishment of intended learning providing an independent assessment outcomes . .Although assessment is an of the knowledge, skills, and/or integral part of the certificate program, competencies required for competent the primary purpose of the program is to performance of an occupational or provide education and training which professional role or specific work-related supports the accomplishment of the tasks and responsibilities intended learning outcomes .

The purpose of formative assessment is to The purpose of the assessment process is to provide feedback to both participants and evaluate mastery of the knowledge, skills, facilitators with the intent of enhancing the or competencies required for certification learning process . . Any generally accepted assessment method may be utilized for this purpose .

Formative assessment may take place on The assessment takes place after the one or more occasions throughout the participant has had the opportunity to learning process . . acquire the targeted knowledge, skills, or competencies .

Successful completion of the summative The assessment is conducted in a assessment is required to receive standardized manner in a secure, the certificate . . proctored environment .

Successful completion of the assessment is required to receive the certification

Defining Features of Quality Certification and Assessment-Based Certificate Programs (2010, Institute for Credentialing Excellence)

document to be a resource for members preparing to take the next step in their membership . With that in mind, the final publication will be user-friendly and intuitive . conclusion

The Commission is committed to sharing regular updates with the

NAP Board of Directors and the membership . The Commission will attempt to place an update in every edition of the National Parliamentarian for the foreseeable future . If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact the Commission at commission@nap2 .org .

c.J. cavin is a licensed attorney, Professional Registered Parliamentarian and Certified Parliamentarian-Teacher He is the full-time parliamentarian for the Oklahoma House of Representatives, chair of the NAP Commission on Credentialing, the Parliamentarian for the American Institute of Parliamentarians, vice-president for the American College of Parliamentary Lawyers, and president of the Oklahoma State Association of Parliamentarians

Parliamentary Law Month Proclamation April 2023

Whereas, Since April is the birth month of Thomas Jefferson, who wrote the first American manual of parliamentary procedure in 1801, it is an appropriate time to honor him and celebrate the use of parliamentary procedure;

Whereas, It is fitting to honor Henry Martyn Robert, author of Pocket Manual of Rules of Order for Deliberative Assemblies, also known as Robert’s Rules of Order;

Whereas, Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised is the most widely recognized and used parliamentary authority in public and private organizations;

Whereas, It is timely to reflect on the importance of parliamentary procedure in meetings in providing for civil discourse, protecting individual rights, ensuring fairness, and maintaining order;

Whereas, The National Association of Parliamentarians® has, by adoption of a standing rule, designated the month of April as Parliamentary Law Month;

Whereas, The National Association of Parliamentarians® is a professional society dedicated to educating leaders throughout the world in effective meeting management through the use of parliamentary procedure; and

Whereas, The vision of the National Association of Parliamentarians® is to provide parliamentary leadership to the world; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Wanda M Sims, PRP, President of the National Association of Parliamentarians®, do hereby declare April 2023 as Parliamentary Law Month and call upon the districts, associations, units, and all members to observe the month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities as a way to create the future and bring our mission and vision into reality .

District Conferences to Feature Hands-on Parliamentary Labs

districts are offering Parliamentary Labs on Presiding and Serving as a Parliamentarian to their events with the help of a special grant from the NAP Educational Foundation to NAP districts and associations.

District 4 is gathering in Toronto, Ontario, May 19-20, 2023, at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel . The educational portion of the conference will be hybrid . The morning workshops will be highly interactive and engaging . They will be followed in the afternoon with the two Parliamentary Labs, which provide hands-on experience presiding and serving as a parliamentarian with guidance and feedback from experienced parliamentarians .

District 6 will meet in League City, Texas near Houston, June 23-24, 2023 . The theme of this year’s conference is “Smooth Sailing with Parliamentary Procedures . ” The program will include a variety of educational sessions . Attendees will also have an opportunity to practice their presiding and serving skills with the Parliamentary Labs . Register for these events in the NAP Portal . There is an additional $25 registration fee for the labs that will be refunded upon verification of attendance .

The labs have been very popular additions to previous NAP training conferences and conventions . The support of NAPEF and its donors is making it possible for more members to take advantage of these excellent learning experiences .

n EW REG i STERED PAR li AME n TAR i A n S*

NP congratulates the following individuals on becoming Registered Parliamentarians:

James Carroll (NE)

Valerie Cottingham (AL)

Mary Dedeaux-Swinton (MN)

Temperance Gaines (NC)

Cecilia Good (WY)

William Hardwick (TN)

Brad Kesler (AK)

Rhiannon Liker (VA)

Chelsea Mazur (AB)

Julianne Montes de Oca (MD)

Jennifer Nickel (CA)

Jack Perenick (NEAP)

Catherine Roach (MN)

Brandon Tenn (CA)

Vera Toney (VA)

n EW P R o FESS ion A l REG i STERED PAR li AME n TAR i A n S*

NP congratulates the following individuals for attaining the status of Professional Registered Parliamentarians:

Constance Barron-Wilson (TX)

Sil E n T G AVE l S *

Alicia Grinage (TX)

Channelle James (EL)

Maya Smith (TX)

Lewis Vetter (TX)

NP commemorates members who have passed from our midst; may they rest in peace:

Linda Chambers (IL)

Elaine Fulton (MO)

nEW M EMBERS *

Harold Hall (CA)

Sandra Mack (NV)

Joe Prelow (TX)

Jane Woods (VA)

NP welcomes the following individuals as new members:

Penelope Abstetar (WI)

Wendi Baggaley (ND)

Senitha Barnett (AL)

Chereka Belton (NC)

Brittany Boehm (ND)

Barbara Bolling (AL)

Anthony Brown (ON)

Angela Broyles (AL)

John Carpenter (TX)

Jeri Clinch (FL)

Melissa Cochran (AR)

Jessica Coxon (TX)

Adrienne Davis (AL)

Cassandra Davis (AL)

Karen Davis (IL)

Jacqueline Ekgren (FL)

R Denise Everson (EL)

Yvette Goins (GA)

* For the period December 16, 2022 through March 16, 2023

Daquita Goodrich (AL)

Felicia Gray (IL)

Barbara Guilbeaux (IL)

Melanie Guitard (ON)

Olivia Hale (WA)

Dariona Haynes (TN)

Elena Hilby (WI)

Tiffany Hoerter (DE)

Monique Howery (IL)

Fred Hughes (AL)

Adrienne Johnson (GA)

Ethel Johnson (MD)

Randall Jones (MI)

Tiffany Kees (GA)

Yara Kirkwood (TX)

Christine Krithades (FL)

Jennifer Lane (AZ)

Arrin Linzenmeyer (WI)

Conmeka Lockhart (NY)

Brenda McEachin (NC)

Jessica Mejia (FL)

Jose Mercado (TX)

Muriel Mitchell (MD)

Ameerah Muhammad (MD)

Denise Mund (CO)

April Myers (VA)

Ngoc Trung Nguyen (AZ)

Kelly Nychka (AB)

James Paine (WI)

D’Lisa Patterson (IN)

Brittany Payne (AL)

Davina Perret (CO)

Paula Perry (MD)

Matthew Powell (FL)

Kier Prince (GA)

Lesley Quattlebaum (MD)

Madison Reed (WA)

Sonjia Reese (FL)

Sandy Roberts (OK)

Austin Ross (AR)

Verta Ross (TN)

Diana Schmitz (OH)

Keith Shapiro (EL)

Gottlieb Simon (DC)

Andy Smith (CO)

Diana Smith (FL)

Peola Smith-Smith (MD)

Jephtha Snow (OH)

Luke Sommer (ID)

Calista Songstad (OR)

Vertonya South (AL)

Andrew Stevens (WI)

Marie Stravlo (FL)

Ojas Tasker (TX)

Nikki Tilley (BC)

Robert Travers (NEAP)

Jaime Van Nes (BC)

LaTara Wallace (MD)

Donna Whitehead (TX)

Rebecca Williams (FL)

Walter Woodard (CA)

Thank you instructors!

A special thank you to the instructors of the aforementioned new members:

Kevin Connelly

Kay Crews

Tyna Davis

Emma Faulk

Joyce Gleason

Dan Jackson

Marquitta Joyce

Ken Mayo

Donna Mitchell

Joe Neglia

Wanda Nelson

Marsha Turner

Deborah Underwood

Fashika Willis

* For the period December 16, 2022 through March 16, 2023