Middle Eastern Pre-Law Student Association
National

Article I – Name and Purpose

 

Section I – Name

The official name of this organization shall be the Middle Eastern Pre-Law Student Association –National (MELSA).

 

Section II – Purpose

The purpose of MELSA is to:

1. Support Middle Eastern students pursuing legal careers through mentorship, networking, and professional development.

2. Promote awareness of legal issues affecting Middle Eastern communities.

3. Create a space for advocacy and collaboration among pre-law students, law students, and legal professionals.

 

Article II – Membership

 

Section I – Eligibility

 

Membership is open to all students interested in legal careers who support the mission and objectives of MELSA.

 

Section II – Categories of Membership

1. General Members: Students actively pursuing undergraduate or graduate education with an interest in law.

2. Alumni Members: Graduates who wish to remain involved and mentor current members.

3. Honorary Members: Individuals recognized for their contributions to MELSA’s mission.

 

Article III – Governance

 

Section I – Executive Board

The governing body of MELSA shall consist of the Executive Board, including:

President

Internal Vice President External Vice President Secretary

Treasurer

Social Media/Recruitment Co-Chair Director of Events Co-Chair

External Communications/Outreach Co-Chair

PR Manager (Under External Communications/Outreach Chair)

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President

The President serves as the chief executive officer of MELSA, overseeing all operations and setting strategic priorities. They manage and delegate tasks across departments to ensure the smooth functioning of the organization. The President chairs board meetings, sets the agenda, and ensures alignment with MELSA’s mission and vision. They serve as the primary liaison with university administration, professional organizations, and external stakeholders. The President has the authority to make executive decisions, approve expenditures, and lead initiatives to advance MELSA’s goals.

 

Internal Vice President

The Internal Vice President serves as second-in-command and assumes the President’s responsibilities in their absence. They oversee internal operations, ensuring strong team dynamics and communication among board members. The Internal VP manages member engagement initiatives, volunteer coordination, and retention strategies. They ensure that all internal processes align with MELSA’s bylaws and mission.

 

External Vice President

The External Vice President is responsible for MELSA’s external relationships and partnerships. They establish and maintain collaborations with other organizations, alumni, and professional networks. The External VP plays a key role in planning joint events, securing sponsorships, and leading community outreach efforts. They work closely with the External Communications/Outreach Co-Chair to expand MELSA’s reach and resources.

 

Secretary

The Secretary is the official record-keeper for MELSA, responsible for maintaining accurate and organized documentation. They manage the organization’s calendar, track deadlines, and ensure board members stay informed. The Secretary drafts and disseminates meeting minutes, newsletters, and event reminders while safeguarding MELSA’s bylaws and official records.

 

Treasurer

The Treasurer serves as MELSA’s chief financial officer, overseeing the budget and financial planning. They approve expenditures, maintain transparent financial records, and lead fundraising initiatives. The Treasurer applies for funding from university sources and external grants to ensure MELSA’s financial sustainability. They provide regular financial updates to the board and align spending with MELSA’s strategic objectives.

 

Social Media/Recruitment Co-Chair

The Social Media/Recruitment Co-Chair manages MELSA’s digital presence and recruitment efforts. They develop strategies to attract new members and engage existing ones through creative content on social media platforms. They also photograph events, manage online interactions, and oversee digital marketing campaigns to promote MELSA’s initiatives.

 

Director of Events Co-Chair

The Director of Events leads the planning and execution of MELSA’s programs, including workshops and networking sessions. They handle event logistics such as securing venues, coordinating with speakers, and managing resources. They track attendance, delegate tasks, and propose new events to keep MELSA’s programming dynamic and impactful.

 

External Communications/Outreach Co-Chair

The External Communications/Outreach Co-Chair focuses on expanding MELSA’s external presence. They establish connections with legal professionals, alumni, and organizations through LinkedIn and email outreach. They initiate partnerships, plan joint events, and collaborate with other student organizations to enhance MELSA’s network.

 

PR Manager (Under External Communications/Outreach Co-Chair)

The PR Manager plays a critical role in MELSA’s branding and marketing. They design promotional materials, create digital campaigns, and ensure consistency in MELSA’s public messaging. By crafting compelling content for flyers, emails, and social media, they enhance MELSA’s visibility and drive engagement with the broader community.

 

Section II – Responsibilities

The Executive Board is responsible for setting the strategic vision of MELSA, organizing events, and managing finances.

 

Article IV – Meetings

 

Section I – General Meetings

MELSA shall hold weekly meetings for members to discuss initiatives, events, and relevant legal issues.

 

Section II – Executive Board Meetings

The Executive Board shall meet at least once a month to plan and execute MELSA’s activities.

 

Article VI – Amendments

 

Section I – Amendment Process

1. Amendments to these bylaws may be proposed by any MELSA member.

2. Proposed amendments must be submitted in writing to the Executive Board for review.

3. A two-thirds majority vote by the Executive Board is required for approval.