PRAL CONSTITUTION

Article I—Organization

Section 1

The name of the organization shall be the Public Relations Association of Louisiana; hereafter referred to as the Association. The Association is an autonomous affiliate of the Southern Public Relations Federation (SPRF).

Section 2

All meetings, including the annual business meeting, shall be called by the Board of Directors, hereafter referred to as the Board, with due prior notice to members.

Section 3

The Board of Directors shall have the power to charter area chapters.

Article II—Purpose

Section 1

We recognize that effective public relations is a communication tool by which individuals, groups and institutions are aided in obtaining the enlightenment necessary to more fully comprehend the complex structure of today's society. This Association has been formed to build a program of activities that will contribute to the expanded scope of professional achievement of its members. By offering members a forum within their own ranks, the Association pledges itself to make a continuing contribution to the improvement of public relations policies and practices throughout the area of the organization's influence.

Section 2: Objectives

A. To foster greater general knowledge and appreciation of the public relations field among those who practice Public Relations and among the general public.
B. To help members acquire greater professional skill.
C. To secure greater overall understanding and support of principles which are basic to our competitive system.
D. To bring together those engaged in the practice of public relations.
E. To promote and seek to maintain high standards of public service and conduct.

Article III—Membership

Section 1

Membership in any chartered chapter automatically grants membership in the state association.

Article IV—Board of Directors

Section 1

The affairs of the Association shall be managed by a Board of Directors, meeting quarterly or on call of the President. The Board of Directors shall consist of three members elected from each chapter and the immediate peat State PRAL President. The SPRF officer from Louisiana shall be an ex-officio member of the Board without a vote. (6/2000)

Section 2

A simple majority of the members of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of association business.

Article V—Officers

Section 1

The officers of the Association shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer.

Section 2

Officers of the State PRAL organization shall be selected from the members of the Board and shall serve one year beginning in January. (6/2000)

Article VI—Dues

Section 1

The annual dues in the Association shall be set by the Board of Directors and established in the bylaws.

Article VII—Amendments

Section 1

This Constitution may be amended by written ballot upon approval of two-thirds of the active membership.

Article VIII—Bylaws

Section 1

All matters not embodied within the constitution of the Association may be adopted by the Board, as bylaws and shall govern the operation of the Association.

Section 2

Chapter bylaws shall not conflict with the Association bylaws.

Article IX—Adoption and Effective Date

Section 1

This Constitution shall become effective January 1, 1979 following a majority vote of those members present at the meeting called for that purpose.