American Association of Variable Star

“There shall be three classes of membership in the association: members, honorary members and organizational members. The eligibility requirements and rights of each class of members shall be as follows: members: any individual who is interested in the advancement of variable star work and kindred subjects shall be eligible to become a member. Upon application and payment of dues, in such amounts as shall be determined by the board of directors from time to time, such persons shall become members. Members shall pay annual dues, may serve as officers or directors of the association, and are entitled to vote on association affairs. Honorary members: the board of directors may elect any individual as an honorary member in recognition of such individual's distinguished contribution to astronomy. The secretary shall notify such individual of his/her eligibility to become an honorary member and he/she shall become so upon notifying the secretary of acceptance. Honorary members shall not be liable for the payment of dues and shall not be eligible to serve as an officer of the association, but may serve on the board of directors and may vote on association affairs. Organizational members: corporations and other entities desirous of encouraging the work of the association may become organizational members. Organizational members do not pay dues, may not hold office or serve on the board of directors, and are not entitled to vote on association affairs.”

“Members elect annually three board members, who have three year terms.”

“Amendments to the bylaws, dissolution of the organization”

“The financial statements and tax returns will be reviewed by the executive committe prior to approval. In the past the practice has been to go through it line-by-line.”

“Circumstances have been rare where potential conflicts could arise because the commercial engagement policy is very restrictive on how we can interact with equipment vendors. Those restrictions were slightly loosened with an update to the policy in may 2025. Board members required to sign conflict of interest policy annually.”

“Other officers not compensated. Key employees other than executive director have compensation determined by the executive director after the overall budget for compensation has been approved by the board.”

“The bylaws are available on the website. Other documents such as the conflict of interest policy are stored on google drive and made available to board members and officers.”