WHO
The Impacted Parties
DAMA Chapters
Board members of DAMA Chapters will see changes in how they interact with DAMA International and their roles within the organization. Where under the previous by-laws, the Chapters nominated and voted for all board positions, under the new bylaws the Chapters will nominate and vote for the Vice President, four Chapter Directors and the President Council Chair (i.e. a total of six voting board directors).
According to the new bylaws, chapters (beside individual professional members) are considered as one of the two voting membership classes. Each Member Chapter is entitled to designate a representative to attend all annual general meetings, to cast one vote as a Chapter on any matter brought before the Members of DAMA-I, and to cast one vote for as many persons as there are to be elected by Member Chapters to the Board as Chapter Directors or Officers. In addition, each Member Chapter’s President or designee will continue to be able to participate in the Presidents’ Council and vote to elect the Chair of the Presidents’ Council.
DAMA Individual Professional Members
Individual Central Members, under the new bylaws referred to as “Individual Professional Members” will gain new roles and responsibilities, reflecting the increased emphasis on individual contributions to the organization’s governance. Where under the previous by-laws, Individual Central Members were unable to nominate and vote for board positions, under the new by-laws, Individual Professional Members are eligible for election as an Officer or Director of DAMA-I and can nominate and vote for the President and five at Large Directors.
Each Individual Professional Member in good standing will be entitled to attend all annual general meetings and have the right to cast one vote on any matter brought before the Members of DAMA-International and have one vote for as many persons as there are to be elected as Officers or Directors.
Please note:
Individual Professional Members are not automatically members of a Chapter and Chapter (only) Members are not automatically DAMA-I Individual Professional Members
Members of Local Chapters
Nothing changes for chapter-only members -- your rights and responsibilities come only from your local chapter, there is no requirement to join DAMA-I as an individual professional member, Your contributions and engagement are invaluable to our collective mission.
We are excited to announce new bylaws that grant enhanced governance rights to our DAMA International Individual Professional Members, reflecting our commitment to inclusive and effective leadership. While these changes specifically pertain to Individual Professional Members, we want to emphasize that all Chapter-only members are an integral part of the larger DAMA community.
We deeply value your involvement and encourage everyone to stay informed and engaged. Your voices and participation are crucial as we navigate this governance transition. We invite all chapter members to share their thoughts and feedback, as your insights are vital to our collective success. Together, we continue to strengthen and grow our vibrant DAMA network, ensuring that every member feels included and valued.