Notice to the Membership: Vote Requested on Change to the Bylaws of the American Guernsey Association

On February 2, 2024, the Board of Directors of the American Guernsey Association unanimously passed the following motion:

The Board of the American Guernsey Association will convert from its current district system to an all At-Large Board of Directors with no more than two members serving from one state at a time; thus amending Article V, Sections B, C and D of the bylaws.

Article XI, Section A of the Bylaws states:

The Bylaws may be altered or amended by a two-thirds vote of the members of the Board of Directors and such amendments shall become effective on an interim basis on the fifteenth day after such vote. Such alteration or amendment shall become permanent, subject to later amendment, if the same is confirmed by a majority vote of the eligible members of the Association (as defined in the Constitution of the Association) voting at the next succeeding annual meeting, provided that the notice of such meeting specifies the amendment to be voted on, or by a majority vote of the active members of the Association, voting by mail, whose ballots are received at the office of the Executive Secretary of the Association within thirty (30) days after the submission to them of any such alteration or amendment.

The Board of Directors will request a vote to make such amendment permanent at the Annual Meeting on June 22, 2024 in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Members who are unable to attend in person to vote should send in their proxy with a designated voting member, or the proxy committee, chosen to cast their vote.

Here is what to know about what this change would entail:

·         The 2024 elections for Board of Directors will remain based on current districts.

·         After this year’s elections, the Board will be retained, converting any District representatives to At-Large representatives. They will then serve the remainder of their previously assigned terms.

·         Future elections will be held with all candidates running together for however many positions are open at that time, with the top overall candidates receiving seats.

·         No more than two members of the Board of Directors will be permitted to reside in the same state.

·         Future nominating committees will be comprised of diverse members who represent different areas of the country.

·         Directors will continue to serve four-year terms, with a maximum of two consecutive terms.

·         If you are unable to attend the Annual Meeting to cast your vote on this amendment, you should return the Proxy slip mailed in your annual membership package (to arrive in April/May) to ensure your voice is heard.

You can visit the National Convention page to check the list of Active Members to make sure your name is included.