Article I — Name
The name of this organization shall be the Disability Advocates Union, hereinafter referred to as DAU.
Our Constitution
The following is the official constitution of the Disability Advocates Union, a registered student organization at Cornell University. It outlines our purpose, membership, governance, and operating procedures.
Article II — Purpose
The purpose of the Disability Advocates Union is to create a space for students interested in disability rights to come together to discuss shared interests, advance community knowledge, and advocate for fair treatment regardless of ability status. DAU strives to create resources that ensure everyone who needs accommodations on campus can gain access to them without barriers or burdens, and to bring students with disabilities together to advocate within Ithaca for universal design and inclusive policy.
Article III — Membership
Membership in the Disability Advocates Union shall be open to all currently enrolled Cornell University students regardless of disability status, major, year, or background. Members are expected to uphold the values of the organization and contribute to a welcoming and inclusive community. There shall be no discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Article IV — Officers
The executive board of the Disability Advocates Union shall consist of the following officers: President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Officers shall be elected by a majority vote of active members at the end of each academic year and shall serve for one academic year. Any active member in good standing is eligible to run for an officer position. In the event of a vacancy, the remaining officers shall appoint a replacement to serve until the next election.
Article V — Duties of Officers
The President shall preside over all meetings, represent the organization in official capacities, and oversee the general operations of DAU. The Vice President shall assist the President and assume presidential duties in the President's absence. The Treasurer shall maintain all financial records, manage the organization's budget, and submit required financial reports to Cornell University. The Secretary shall keep accurate minutes of all meetings, maintain membership records, and handle official correspondence.
Article VI — Meetings
The Disability Advocates Union shall hold regular general body meetings at least twice per month during the academic year. Special meetings may be called by the President or by a petition signed by at least one-third of active members. A quorum for the transaction of business shall consist of a majority of active members. All members shall receive reasonable notice of meetings.
Article VII — Committees
The organization may establish standing or ad hoc committees as needed to carry out its mission. Committee chairs shall be appointed by the President with the approval of the executive board. Committees may include, but are not limited to: Advocacy, Education, Community, and Outreach. Each committee shall report regularly to the executive board.
Article VIII — Finances
The Disability Advocates Union shall maintain a treasury for the purpose of funding organizational activities. All expenditures must be approved by the Treasurer and President. The organization shall comply with all Cornell University Student Assembly financial policies and procedures. No member shall use organizational funds for personal benefit.
Article IX — Amendments
This constitution may be amended by a two-thirds vote of active members present at any regular meeting, provided that the proposed amendment has been submitted in writing at least one week prior to the vote. Amendments shall take effect immediately upon passage unless otherwise specified.
Article X — Dissolution
In the event of dissolution of the Disability Advocates Union, all remaining assets shall be transferred to a Cornell University organization with a similar mission, as determined by a majority vote of the executive board, in accordance with Cornell University policies.
This constitution was adopted by the founding members of the Disability Advocates Union at Cornell University.