WARNER HALL HOUSE
By-laws
Article I: Name
This Eating House shall be known as “Warner Hall House.”
Article II: Purpose
Warner Hall House provides opportunities in leadership and service while facilitating friendships. Warner Hall House is a proactive organization that encourages innovation within Patterson Court and Davidson College at large. This institution primarily serves as a dining organization and a social club. It follows all guidelines and policies provided by the Patterson Court Council and Davidson College. Warner Hall House is a non-profit organization, which uses its funds solely for the betterment of its membership. No part of any net earnings shall benefit any one member.
Warner Hall House offers an inclusive and welcoming space for all individuals of marginalized genders, including but not limited to woman-identifying, non-binary, and trans people.
Article III: Warner Hall House Culture
Warner Hall House does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or marital status. Warner Hall celebrates diversity and respects each individual for what they offer.
Warner Hall House strives to create an inclusive, anti-racist space. Through continued education and philanthropy, Warner Hall will work to foster an anti-racist culture and invest in dismantling racism, bigotry, and prejudice whenever encountered. Warner Hall House commits to collaborating with and amplifying the voices of BIPOC organizations and individuals on campus.
All Warner Hall House members are responsible for actively committing themselves to creating a community of equity and inclusion. Warner Hall House members are expected to build a space of accountability. Those who do not adhere to these standards, or are complicit as bystanders, are subject to being sent to Warner Hall House’s Conduct Council, PCC Community Standards Board, and the Deans Office.
Article IV: Membership
Section 1. Membership in Warner Hall shall consist of Davidson College students who identify as women, transgender, non-binary, or other marginalized gender identities. Membership in Warner Hall House shall be determined in a process deemed appropriate by Patterson Court Council. The membership consists of people currently enrolled in Davidson College students who choose to be a member of Warner Hall through either Placement (first years), or adding/switching sophomores, juniors, seniors and transfers).
Section 2. In the spring of each year, first year students who are placed into Warner Hall will be offered one meal at the house per week (day to be decided upon by the President, Treasurers, and Kitchen Manager). They are entitled to attend all social functions and have full access to use the house as stipulated to all members. Sophomore members are required to have a 10-meal plan for the duration of the fiscal year. Junior members are required to hold a 6-meal plan for the duration of the fiscal year, which includes dinner at House Meeting. Seniors must have a 1-meal plan for dinner during House Meeting.
Section 3. Members who desire extra weekly meals may purchase them by paying an appropriate fee as determined by the Treasurers. Board-bill discounts given to Executive Board members will not apply to the purchase of additional meals.
Section 4. Warner Hall House does not offer a “social membership.” Exceptions to the above stipulations will be made only in rare circumstances as deemed necessary by the President and Treasurers.
Section 5. All Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors in the house are encouraged to become Risk Management certified. Risk Managers will be paid at an hourly rate determined by the President, Treasurers, and Social Chairs at the beginning of each academic year.
Article V: Ownership
Section 1. In the fall semester, all sophomore members are expected to help clean the house in a rotating schedule as decided by the House Managers. In the spring semester, all first year members are expected to help clean the house in a rotating schedule as decided by the House Managers. Any failure to adhere to this policy will result in a sanction as decided by the House Managers and Treasurers.
Section 2. The use of all staples, cleaning supplies, cooking utensils, eating utensils, and other standard supplies provided by the house should not be abused by any member.
Section 3. All members will be held responsible for their misuse of any shared organization possession and/or their damage to any property previously purchased by Warner Hall House. If any property of Warner Hall House is damaged, broken, or stolen, the responsible party is required to pay for the replacement or repair of such property.
Section 4. While Warner Hall House welcomes non-members into the house, all Warner Hall House members are fully responsible for the actions of their guests. Visitors unaccompanied by a Warner Hall member are not allowed inside the house.
Section 5. Any ‘impromptu’ gatherings that occur in Warner Hall House must be in accordance with Patterson Court and College policy.
Article VI: House Government
Section 1. The government and management of Warner Hall House shall be vested in an Executive Board and Extended Board, collectively referred to as “E-Board.”
Section 1.1. Members of the E-Board will be expected to support events and initiatives of other E-board members. This includes but is not limited to attending Warner events when possible, undergoing Risk Management training as set forth by the Patterson Court Advisor, and Risk Managing at least one Warner event in a semester.
Section 2. The Executive Board consists of a President, one Vice-President, two Recruitment Chairs, two Treasurers, two Service Chairs, two Social Chairs, two Kitchen Managers, a Secretary and two House Managers. The Vice-President and Secretary serve as the Patterson Court Council Representatives along with the President.
Section 3. The Extended Board consists of a Historian, a Publicity Chair, an SGA Representative (if applicable), a T-Shirt Chair, a Sustainability Chair, an At-Large for each class, Formal Chair, and a Formal Aid. The Sophomore and Junior Conduct Council representatives also serve as the Community Standards Board Representatives in the event that a Community Standards Board Hearing is called.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Section 2.1. President
ONE PERSON; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically a junior) – Calendar Year
The President is ultimately responsible and held liable for anything that concerns Warner Hall House. They are responsible for overseeing the management of Warner Hall House. They lead weekly E-Board meetings and house meetings and attends Patterson Court Council meetings. Anything else that needs to be done is the President’s responsibility: supporting the E-board, attending all events, being liable for the organization and all members, and maintaining relations with other Patterson Court Organizations and the Patterson Court Advisor.
Section 2.2 Vice-President
ONE PERSON; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically a junior) – Calendar Year
The Vice-President’s primary responsibilities are to serve as an adviser to the President and the rest of E-Board, be a liaison for the Recruitment Chairs in their planning and execution of events, and to organize Warner Hall House’s educational events. This involves promoting the importance of scholarship, leadership, and service within the organization, as well as ensuring that Warner Hall House satisfies the requirements of the Patterson Court Standards Program. They also serve as the chair of Warner Hall House’s Conduct Council. They are to be the President’s “go-to person” and is expected to fulfill certain duties in the event that the President is for some reason unable to fulfill them. This may include running House Meeting if the President cannot attend, etc. An additional responsibility is attending PCC meetings with the President and Secretary. They also must attend any PCC Scholarship Committee meetings.
Section 2.3 Recruitment Chairs
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically sophomores) – Academic Year
The Recruitment Chairs work to create an inviting atmosphere for first years and potential new members. They are responsible for new member recruitment, event planning, and new member education. Together, they plan several events in the fall to introduce the first years to the members of Warner Hall House. In the spring, they plan events for the formal recruitment period, welcome new members into the organization during Placement weekend, and maintain steady contact with them throughout the semester.
Section 2.4 Treasurers
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically juniors or seniors) – Rotating Terms
The Treasurers’ main responsibilities are paying bills (which include but are not limited to: the cook's weekly salary, taxes, utilities, food bills, and accounting fees), maintaining the Business, Non-Profit, and Free Business Checking Accounts, creating a budget for use of organization funds, maintaining a running budget, collecting board bills, and working closely with Warner Hall House's accountant. They should also work closely with the cook to monitor food receipts. The Treasurers should present the budget to E-Board within the first two weeks of the semester. They are elected on a rotating basis, one each semester.
Section 2.5. Service Chairs
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically at least one junior or senior) – Calendar Year
The Service Chairs are responsible for organizing organization-wide community service and philanthropic events, especially Red and Black Ball. They plan fundraising and other events throughout the year to help promote Red and Black Ball, and, in the fall, they form committees to assist them. If in-person fundraising events are unable to occur, Service Chairs are expected to organize other fundraising opportunities. It is the responsibility of the Service Chairs to enforce any Patterson Court standards concerning community service and philanthropy. The Service Chairs must also attend any PCC meetings as required by the PCC Service Chair.
Section 2.6. Social Chairs
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (any year) – Rotating Terms
The Social Chairs are responsible for coming up with fun, creative and original ideas for sisterhoods and parties as well as for planning traditional events. They are in charge of organizing the party, securing Risk Managers, decorating the house, booking the DJ/band, getting alcohol (if provided), and preparing the house for the party (as in moving couches, securing bulletin boards, etc). They are also responsible for contacting the House Manager in advance of parties to schedule cleanups when necessary. If they do not request a party cleanup, or do not do so with adequate time for the House Manager to plan one (at least two weeks in advance), they are responsible for cleaning up after the event. They are elected on a rotating basis, one each semester.
Section 2.7. Kitchen Manager
TWO PEOPLE; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Kitchen Manager acts as a liaison between the cook and the people in the organization. The Kitchen Manager is primarily responsible for communicating with the cook to make a weekly menu that is both delicious and affordable. They ensure that everything is kept in order with dishes, utensils, and food storage. It is also the Kitchen Manager’s responsibility to make sure the food is taken out of the warmer and put in containers and into the fridge after every meal. They are responsible for organizing a waitressing schedule for the entire semester to ensure that this gets done. They must hold an informational session at the beginning of the semester to show all prospective waitresses how to run the sanitizer, clean the front kitchen, put the food away, and the other responsibilities.
Section 2.8. House Manager
TWO PEOPLE; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The House Manager ensures that the house stays clean. They schedule and run weekly House Cleanups to comply with Patterson Court house inspections. It is their responsibility to schedule post-party cleanups when asked to do so by the Recruitment Chairs and Social Chairs. They also co-chair the House Beautification Committee with the Historian, planning projects to improve the house. The House Manager is also responsible for working with the Physical Plant and RLO/Patterson Court Advisor to keep the house stocked with paper towels, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies and to apply for work orders when things need to be fixed.
Section 2.9. Secretary
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Secretary attends and takes notes at weekly house meetings and E-Board meetings, and they send the minutes to the people in the organization in a timely manner. They are in charge of keeping attendance at House Meeting and determines whether an absence is excused or unexcused. They keep track of any associated sanctions due to excessive absences from House Meeting. They also attend PCC meetings with the President and Vice President.
EXTENDED BOARD
Section 3.1. Historian
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Historian is responsible for scheduling the photographer for events (as necessary). They serve as co-chairman of the House Beautification Committee with the House Manager. They keep bulletin boards updated with recent pictures and upcoming events on the monthly calendar, and they organize the composite photographs in the spring. They also keep records of organization events and assists the Publicity Chair with updating the organization website. They are responsible for keeping the basement closet clean and organized. Finally, they are responsible for writing and publishing an alumni newsletter at least once a semester.
Section 3.2. Publicity Chair
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Publicity Chair is in charge of publicity for Warner Hall House organization events, as well as coordinating Warner Hall’s continuing connection with alumnae. Their responsibilities include as assisting the Red and Black Ball Committee Publicity Chair, updating the alumnae database, participating in Patterson Court outreach events, updating the website, and utilizing social networking sites to publicize events. They, with the input of key house leaders, create and send a newsletter to Warner Hall alumnae each semester. In the fall, they plan an event over Homecoming for current members and alumnae. They also must attend any PCC Public Relations Committee meetings.
Section 3.3. SGA Representative
ONE PERSON; 1 YEAR TERM ON SGA CYCLE (if applicable)
The SGA Representative acts as a liaison between Eating Houses and the Student Government Association. They attend the weekly SGA meetings and reports the necessary information to the E-Board.
Section 3.4. J-Board Representatives
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (any year) – Academic Year
Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Conduct Council Representatives serve as J-Board Reps during the academic year. If a Representative is unable to fulfill their full academic term, their position will be filled via elections. The First Year Conduct Council Representative will serve as a J-Board Representative for the spring semester. They attend Community Standard Board hearings as Warner's representatives as needed. Along with representatives from other organizations and a few faculty and staff, they consider alleged violations by Patterson Court organizations and agree on appropriate sanctions. It is their responsibility to communicate with the E-Board to impart "lessons" from the trial (i.e. what to be conscious of, how to better understand application of rules etc.).
Section 3.5. T-Shirt Chair
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The T-Shirt Chair is in charge of designing, ordering, and distributing, all t-shirts for Warner Hall House. They are responsible for collecting the payment for the t-shirts and delivering it to the Treasurers. They are required to keep a spreadsheet of all of the transactions so that the Treasurers may maintain records. They must get approval for all designs and orders from the E-Board.
Section 3.6. Senior-at-Large
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM
The Senior-at-Large acts as a liaison between the senior class and organization leadership. They generally promote class unity and unity among classes. The Senior-at-Large works with a given budget to plan class social events and works with the other at-Larges to plan inter-class events.
Section 3.7. Junior-at-Large
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM
The Junior-at-Large acts as a liaison between the junior class and organization leadership. They generally promote class unity and unity among classes. The Junior-at-Large works with a given budget to plan class social events and works with the other at-Larges to plan inter-class events. They work with the Sophomore and First Year-at-Larges to plan the Senior Roast in the spring.
Section 3.8. Sophomore-at-Large
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM
The Sophomore-at-Large acts as a liaison between the sophomore class and organization leadership. They generally promote class unity and unity among classes. The Sophomore-at-Large works with a given budget to plan class social events and works with the other at-Larges to plan inter-class events. They work with the Junior and First Year-at-Larges to plan the Senior Roast in the spring.
Section 3.9. First Year-at-Large
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (ONLY IN THE SPRING)
The First Year-at-Large is elected during the second week as a new member of Warner Hall, and they act as the liaison between the First Year class and organization leadership. They generally promote class unity and unity among classes. The First Year-at-Large works with a given budget to plan class social events and works with the other at-Larges to plan inter-class events. They work with the Sophomore and Junior-at-Larges to plan Senior Roast in the spring.
Section 3.10.
Formal Aid
ONE PERSON; 2 SEMESTER TERM
Formal Aid will select both the date and venue for formal in the upcoming spring. They will manage payments and other entities for formal that need to be planned for Formal in the fall. Holding this position does not necessarily mean one will become formal chair next semester.
Formal Chair
ONE PERSON; 2 SEMESTER TERM
The Formal Chairs plan Warner Hall House’s annual Formal in the spring while keeping within the budget as decided upon by the Formal Chairs and Treasurers.
Section 3.11. Sustainability Chair
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Sustainability Chair promotes recycling, composting, and generally “going green” within the organization. They ensure that Warner Hall House conforms to all Patterson Court sustainability standards, and they are expected to attend all meetings required by the PCC Sustainability Chair.
Section 3.12 Head of Conduct Council
ONE PERSON; 1 YEAR TERM (any year)
The head of conduct council leads conduct council meetings and attends Extended Board meetings with Warner Hall's Executive & Extended Boards. They are the liaison between Conduct Council and the Executive Board, keeping the members of E-Board "in the loop" about Conduct Council or current cases when appropriate. This position is voted on within Conduct Council- see Conduct Council Bylaws "Conduct Council Members" for appropriate voting process.
Section 4. In the case of vacancy in any office, the Executive Board shall fill such an office by appointment. The appointment shall be for no longer than three subsequent house meetings at which time the office shall be filled by a house election.
Section 5. The E-Board may adopt rules and regulations for the conduct of all meetings and the management of affairs of Warner Hall House as deemed appropriate by the President, provided that these rules and regulations do not conflict with these by-laws.
Section 6. Each former E-Board member is required to act as an adviser to their successor.
All Executive Board positions with notable responsibility are obligated to keep physical records of their responsibilities for future use. A notebook is strongly suggested.
Article VII: Officer Elections
Section 1. Elections are to be held at the end of the spring and fall semesters. This should occur at least two weeks before the end of the exam period to ensure that the outgoing and incoming position holders have sufficient opportunity to meet and discuss position responsibilities. Any changes to the timing or manner of elections must be approved by a majority vote of the E-Board and communicated to the entire house. At a time prior to elections, as determined by the current Vice President, each member who is interested in running for the Warner Hall House E-Board must notify the Vice President of the positions for which they wish to run.
Section 2. In the event that a member running for a specific position on E-Board does not get elected for that position, they may run again for a different position. Therefore, they must notify the Vice President of their preferences in advance. A member may run for a maximum of three positions in one election cycle.
Section 3. Each person on E-Board may only have one position unless there are not enough members running for all specified positions. An exception is the SGA representative, who may hold another position simultaneously due to the incongruence in the SGA election cycle and Warner Hall House’s election cycle.
Section 4. Above, there are a suggested number of house members to fill each position. However, in the event of change and/or necessity, the number stipulated may be changed at the discretion of the President and approved by a majority vote of the E-Board.
Section 5. A member may not hold a position for more than two consecutive semesters unless there is no one else running for the position.
Article VIII: Finances
Section 1. At the beginning of each semester, each member is required to sign a contract financially binding them to Warner Hall House for the semester. In this contract, each member is required to pay dues at an amount that is decided upon by the Treasurers at the beginning of each semester. Any increase in dues should be announced to the E-Board and approved by a majority vote of the E-Board. Members who terminate this contract after the end of the Switching/Adding/Dropping period will still be held responsible for paying the full amount in dues.
Section 1.2: All members must have their board bills signed by the end of the first week of any semester. Those who pay after the first week will be assessed a sanction determined by the Treasurers and President. After two weeks, if the member has not signed a board bill, they will be told that they have become an inactive member of Warner Hall for that semester.
Section 2. Certain E-Board positions are given a percentage discount off of their board bills. The President receives 35% off. The Vice-President and each Treasurer receive 25% off. The Service Chairs, Social Chairs, Recruitment Chairs, Kitchen Manager, and House Manager each receive 10% off. If at any point, Warner Hall House becomes financially unable to offer these discounts, this section is subject to revocation by a majority vote of the Executive Board.
Section 3. All sophomore athletes in-season are given a discount as determined by the Treasurers each semester, knowing that they are required to eat some meals with their team.
Section 4. The Treasurers are required to submit board bills to the Controller’s Office according to Patterson Court Policy. Members who fail to submit board bills on time to the Treasurers will incur a sanction as stipulated by Patterson Court Policy.
Section 5. Any member who has multiple unexcused absences from House Meeting will be sanctioned on the third missed meeting and each subsequent missed meeting as determined by the Secretary and the Treasurers.
Section 6. Any member failing to report to House Cleanup or to send someone in their place will also incur a sanction determined by the House Manager and Treasurers.
Section 7. Any member in default payment of dues, authorized fees, or accounts due to Warner Hall House shall be sanctioned at the discretion of the Treasurers and President. Any unresolved sanction will be turned over to the Office of the Controller at the end of the year.
Section 8. Any E-Board member who exceeds their position’s allotted budget by 10% or greater without prior consent from the Treasurers will be responsible for paying the amount in full to Warner Hall.
Section 9. Any fine or fee incurred due to an E-Board member’s negligence in performing their duties will be paid by the member at fault. This includes, but is not limited to, any overdraft fees due to a Treasurer overdrawing a bank account.
Section 10. The Treasurers may only give pre-imbursements to members for purchases exceeding $150.
Section 11. Treasurers are under no circumstances allowed to give a blank check to a member.
Section 12. Sophomores and juniors who have restricting dietary needs will be given a discount as determined by the treasurers and kitchen manager each semester. If a member has a pre-existing condition, they must inform those in charge upon signing their board bill.
Section 13. If a member shows a financial inability to pay a fine, they must inform the respective chair. The chair will decide an appropriate in-house alternative to paying.
Section 14. Any member whose actions are deemed financially irresponsible to the extent that they endanger the financial health or reputation of Warner Hall House will be prosecuted accordingly.
Section 15. E-Board must determine a sanctioning system at the beginning of each academic year. The President must present the determined sanctioning system to the entire house within the first two weeks of the semester. Sanctioning can include, but is not limited to, extra house clean-ups, social probation for an allotted period of time, or fines. Sanctions will be determined on an individual basis and will increase in severity with each additional infraction.
Article IX: Meetings
Section 1. All members are expected to attend regular house meetings, which are held weekly. An absence can be excused only at the discretion of the Secretary. An unexcused absence may result in a sanction.
Section 2. Executive Board meetings are held every week at a time and place determined by the President. Extended board meetings are held every other week or as needed. All E-Board members are asked to notify the President if they will not be in attendance. All E-Board meetings, both Executive and Extended, are open to the whole organization to attend.
Article X: Service
Section 1. Warner Hall House requires its members to participate in a certain number of service hours each semester as required by PCC and/or the Service Chairs. Members who do not fulfill their service hour requirements are subject to a sanction as decided by the Service Chairs and the Treasurer.
Article XI: Drug Policy
Section 1. The use of any illegal drugs by any member on the grounds of Warner Hall House or at any organization-sponsored function is strictly prohibited. Any organization member who disregards this policy is subject to discharge from the House in addition to a sanction given by the Treasurers and President.
Section 2. The knowledge of any such violation is to be held confidential and is not to be discussed at any E-Board meeting or House Meeting.
Article XII: Alcohol Policy
Section 1. Any alcohol purchased with Warner Hall House funds is strictly for responsible consumption by members of legal drinking age.
Section 2. Any Warner Hall House member who abuses the use of alcohol purchased with organization funds shall be subject to a sanction and/or may be dismissed from the organization. Any unauthorized use of alcohol purchased by Warner Hall House will result in a sanction.
Section 3. Previously unopened alcohol may not be taken from the house unless given permission from the President and/or Social Chairs.
Section 4. Any piece of organization property that may have been damaged as a result of drunkenness or debauchery, as determined by E-Board, must be replaced by the responsible party.
Article XIII: Standards
Section 1. See the Warner Hall Standards document.
Article XIV: These By-laws
Section 1. These by-laws are to be reviewed on an annual basis by the President and any interested organization members. Any changes must be approved by the Executive Board. A majority vote shall be sufficient to make an amendment.
Section 2. Any amendment to these by-laws not in the revision period must also be approved by the Executive Board. A majority vote shall be sufficient to make an amendment.
Section 3. These by-laws were last revised in July 2020.
Section 4. All members are responsible for knowing and abiding by these by-laws.
By-laws
Article I: Name
This Eating House shall be known as “Warner Hall House.”
Article II: Purpose
Warner Hall House provides opportunities in leadership and service while facilitating friendships. Warner Hall House is a proactive organization that encourages innovation within Patterson Court and Davidson College at large. This institution primarily serves as a dining organization and a social club. It follows all guidelines and policies provided by the Patterson Court Council and Davidson College. Warner Hall House is a non-profit organization, which uses its funds solely for the betterment of its membership. No part of any net earnings shall benefit any one member.
Warner Hall House offers an inclusive and welcoming space for all individuals of marginalized genders, including but not limited to woman-identifying, non-binary, and trans people.
Article III: Warner Hall House Culture
Warner Hall House does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic status, or marital status. Warner Hall celebrates diversity and respects each individual for what they offer.
Warner Hall House strives to create an inclusive, anti-racist space. Through continued education and philanthropy, Warner Hall will work to foster an anti-racist culture and invest in dismantling racism, bigotry, and prejudice whenever encountered. Warner Hall House commits to collaborating with and amplifying the voices of BIPOC organizations and individuals on campus.
All Warner Hall House members are responsible for actively committing themselves to creating a community of equity and inclusion. Warner Hall House members are expected to build a space of accountability. Those who do not adhere to these standards, or are complicit as bystanders, are subject to being sent to Warner Hall House’s Conduct Council, PCC Community Standards Board, and the Deans Office.
Article IV: Membership
Section 1. Membership in Warner Hall shall consist of Davidson College students who identify as women, transgender, non-binary, or other marginalized gender identities. Membership in Warner Hall House shall be determined in a process deemed appropriate by Patterson Court Council. The membership consists of people currently enrolled in Davidson College students who choose to be a member of Warner Hall through either Placement (first years), or adding/switching sophomores, juniors, seniors and transfers).
Section 2. In the spring of each year, first year students who are placed into Warner Hall will be offered one meal at the house per week (day to be decided upon by the President, Treasurers, and Kitchen Manager). They are entitled to attend all social functions and have full access to use the house as stipulated to all members. Sophomore members are required to have a 10-meal plan for the duration of the fiscal year. Junior members are required to hold a 6-meal plan for the duration of the fiscal year, which includes dinner at House Meeting. Seniors must have a 1-meal plan for dinner during House Meeting.
Section 3. Members who desire extra weekly meals may purchase them by paying an appropriate fee as determined by the Treasurers. Board-bill discounts given to Executive Board members will not apply to the purchase of additional meals.
Section 4. Warner Hall House does not offer a “social membership.” Exceptions to the above stipulations will be made only in rare circumstances as deemed necessary by the President and Treasurers.
Section 5. All Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors in the house are encouraged to become Risk Management certified. Risk Managers will be paid at an hourly rate determined by the President, Treasurers, and Social Chairs at the beginning of each academic year.
Article V: Ownership
Section 1. In the fall semester, all sophomore members are expected to help clean the house in a rotating schedule as decided by the House Managers. In the spring semester, all first year members are expected to help clean the house in a rotating schedule as decided by the House Managers. Any failure to adhere to this policy will result in a sanction as decided by the House Managers and Treasurers.
Section 2. The use of all staples, cleaning supplies, cooking utensils, eating utensils, and other standard supplies provided by the house should not be abused by any member.
Section 3. All members will be held responsible for their misuse of any shared organization possession and/or their damage to any property previously purchased by Warner Hall House. If any property of Warner Hall House is damaged, broken, or stolen, the responsible party is required to pay for the replacement or repair of such property.
Section 4. While Warner Hall House welcomes non-members into the house, all Warner Hall House members are fully responsible for the actions of their guests. Visitors unaccompanied by a Warner Hall member are not allowed inside the house.
Section 5. Any ‘impromptu’ gatherings that occur in Warner Hall House must be in accordance with Patterson Court and College policy.
Article VI: House Government
Section 1. The government and management of Warner Hall House shall be vested in an Executive Board and Extended Board, collectively referred to as “E-Board.”
Section 1.1. Members of the E-Board will be expected to support events and initiatives of other E-board members. This includes but is not limited to attending Warner events when possible, undergoing Risk Management training as set forth by the Patterson Court Advisor, and Risk Managing at least one Warner event in a semester.
Section 2. The Executive Board consists of a President, one Vice-President, two Recruitment Chairs, two Treasurers, two Service Chairs, two Social Chairs, two Kitchen Managers, a Secretary and two House Managers. The Vice-President and Secretary serve as the Patterson Court Council Representatives along with the President.
Section 3. The Extended Board consists of a Historian, a Publicity Chair, an SGA Representative (if applicable), a T-Shirt Chair, a Sustainability Chair, an At-Large for each class, Formal Chair, and a Formal Aid. The Sophomore and Junior Conduct Council representatives also serve as the Community Standards Board Representatives in the event that a Community Standards Board Hearing is called.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Section 2.1. President
ONE PERSON; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically a junior) – Calendar Year
The President is ultimately responsible and held liable for anything that concerns Warner Hall House. They are responsible for overseeing the management of Warner Hall House. They lead weekly E-Board meetings and house meetings and attends Patterson Court Council meetings. Anything else that needs to be done is the President’s responsibility: supporting the E-board, attending all events, being liable for the organization and all members, and maintaining relations with other Patterson Court Organizations and the Patterson Court Advisor.
Section 2.2 Vice-President
ONE PERSON; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically a junior) – Calendar Year
The Vice-President’s primary responsibilities are to serve as an adviser to the President and the rest of E-Board, be a liaison for the Recruitment Chairs in their planning and execution of events, and to organize Warner Hall House’s educational events. This involves promoting the importance of scholarship, leadership, and service within the organization, as well as ensuring that Warner Hall House satisfies the requirements of the Patterson Court Standards Program. They also serve as the chair of Warner Hall House’s Conduct Council. They are to be the President’s “go-to person” and is expected to fulfill certain duties in the event that the President is for some reason unable to fulfill them. This may include running House Meeting if the President cannot attend, etc. An additional responsibility is attending PCC meetings with the President and Secretary. They also must attend any PCC Scholarship Committee meetings.
Section 2.3 Recruitment Chairs
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically sophomores) – Academic Year
The Recruitment Chairs work to create an inviting atmosphere for first years and potential new members. They are responsible for new member recruitment, event planning, and new member education. Together, they plan several events in the fall to introduce the first years to the members of Warner Hall House. In the spring, they plan events for the formal recruitment period, welcome new members into the organization during Placement weekend, and maintain steady contact with them throughout the semester.
Section 2.4 Treasurers
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically juniors or seniors) – Rotating Terms
The Treasurers’ main responsibilities are paying bills (which include but are not limited to: the cook's weekly salary, taxes, utilities, food bills, and accounting fees), maintaining the Business, Non-Profit, and Free Business Checking Accounts, creating a budget for use of organization funds, maintaining a running budget, collecting board bills, and working closely with Warner Hall House's accountant. They should also work closely with the cook to monitor food receipts. The Treasurers should present the budget to E-Board within the first two weeks of the semester. They are elected on a rotating basis, one each semester.
Section 2.5. Service Chairs
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (typically at least one junior or senior) – Calendar Year
The Service Chairs are responsible for organizing organization-wide community service and philanthropic events, especially Red and Black Ball. They plan fundraising and other events throughout the year to help promote Red and Black Ball, and, in the fall, they form committees to assist them. If in-person fundraising events are unable to occur, Service Chairs are expected to organize other fundraising opportunities. It is the responsibility of the Service Chairs to enforce any Patterson Court standards concerning community service and philanthropy. The Service Chairs must also attend any PCC meetings as required by the PCC Service Chair.
Section 2.6. Social Chairs
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (any year) – Rotating Terms
The Social Chairs are responsible for coming up with fun, creative and original ideas for sisterhoods and parties as well as for planning traditional events. They are in charge of organizing the party, securing Risk Managers, decorating the house, booking the DJ/band, getting alcohol (if provided), and preparing the house for the party (as in moving couches, securing bulletin boards, etc). They are also responsible for contacting the House Manager in advance of parties to schedule cleanups when necessary. If they do not request a party cleanup, or do not do so with adequate time for the House Manager to plan one (at least two weeks in advance), they are responsible for cleaning up after the event. They are elected on a rotating basis, one each semester.
Section 2.7. Kitchen Manager
TWO PEOPLE; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Kitchen Manager acts as a liaison between the cook and the people in the organization. The Kitchen Manager is primarily responsible for communicating with the cook to make a weekly menu that is both delicious and affordable. They ensure that everything is kept in order with dishes, utensils, and food storage. It is also the Kitchen Manager’s responsibility to make sure the food is taken out of the warmer and put in containers and into the fridge after every meal. They are responsible for organizing a waitressing schedule for the entire semester to ensure that this gets done. They must hold an informational session at the beginning of the semester to show all prospective waitresses how to run the sanitizer, clean the front kitchen, put the food away, and the other responsibilities.
Section 2.8. House Manager
TWO PEOPLE; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The House Manager ensures that the house stays clean. They schedule and run weekly House Cleanups to comply with Patterson Court house inspections. It is their responsibility to schedule post-party cleanups when asked to do so by the Recruitment Chairs and Social Chairs. They also co-chair the House Beautification Committee with the Historian, planning projects to improve the house. The House Manager is also responsible for working with the Physical Plant and RLO/Patterson Court Advisor to keep the house stocked with paper towels, toilet paper, and cleaning supplies and to apply for work orders when things need to be fixed.
Section 2.9. Secretary
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Secretary attends and takes notes at weekly house meetings and E-Board meetings, and they send the minutes to the people in the organization in a timely manner. They are in charge of keeping attendance at House Meeting and determines whether an absence is excused or unexcused. They keep track of any associated sanctions due to excessive absences from House Meeting. They also attend PCC meetings with the President and Vice President.
EXTENDED BOARD
Section 3.1. Historian
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Historian is responsible for scheduling the photographer for events (as necessary). They serve as co-chairman of the House Beautification Committee with the House Manager. They keep bulletin boards updated with recent pictures and upcoming events on the monthly calendar, and they organize the composite photographs in the spring. They also keep records of organization events and assists the Publicity Chair with updating the organization website. They are responsible for keeping the basement closet clean and organized. Finally, they are responsible for writing and publishing an alumni newsletter at least once a semester.
Section 3.2. Publicity Chair
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Publicity Chair is in charge of publicity for Warner Hall House organization events, as well as coordinating Warner Hall’s continuing connection with alumnae. Their responsibilities include as assisting the Red and Black Ball Committee Publicity Chair, updating the alumnae database, participating in Patterson Court outreach events, updating the website, and utilizing social networking sites to publicize events. They, with the input of key house leaders, create and send a newsletter to Warner Hall alumnae each semester. In the fall, they plan an event over Homecoming for current members and alumnae. They also must attend any PCC Public Relations Committee meetings.
Section 3.3. SGA Representative
ONE PERSON; 1 YEAR TERM ON SGA CYCLE (if applicable)
The SGA Representative acts as a liaison between Eating Houses and the Student Government Association. They attend the weekly SGA meetings and reports the necessary information to the E-Board.
Section 3.4. J-Board Representatives
TWO PEOPLE; 2 SEMESTER TERM (any year) – Academic Year
Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Conduct Council Representatives serve as J-Board Reps during the academic year. If a Representative is unable to fulfill their full academic term, their position will be filled via elections. The First Year Conduct Council Representative will serve as a J-Board Representative for the spring semester. They attend Community Standard Board hearings as Warner's representatives as needed. Along with representatives from other organizations and a few faculty and staff, they consider alleged violations by Patterson Court organizations and agree on appropriate sanctions. It is their responsibility to communicate with the E-Board to impart "lessons" from the trial (i.e. what to be conscious of, how to better understand application of rules etc.).
Section 3.5. T-Shirt Chair
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The T-Shirt Chair is in charge of designing, ordering, and distributing, all t-shirts for Warner Hall House. They are responsible for collecting the payment for the t-shirts and delivering it to the Treasurers. They are required to keep a spreadsheet of all of the transactions so that the Treasurers may maintain records. They must get approval for all designs and orders from the E-Board.
Section 3.6. Senior-at-Large
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM
The Senior-at-Large acts as a liaison between the senior class and organization leadership. They generally promote class unity and unity among classes. The Senior-at-Large works with a given budget to plan class social events and works with the other at-Larges to plan inter-class events.
Section 3.7. Junior-at-Large
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM
The Junior-at-Large acts as a liaison between the junior class and organization leadership. They generally promote class unity and unity among classes. The Junior-at-Large works with a given budget to plan class social events and works with the other at-Larges to plan inter-class events. They work with the Sophomore and First Year-at-Larges to plan the Senior Roast in the spring.
Section 3.8. Sophomore-at-Large
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM
The Sophomore-at-Large acts as a liaison between the sophomore class and organization leadership. They generally promote class unity and unity among classes. The Sophomore-at-Large works with a given budget to plan class social events and works with the other at-Larges to plan inter-class events. They work with the Junior and First Year-at-Larges to plan the Senior Roast in the spring.
Section 3.9. First Year-at-Large
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (ONLY IN THE SPRING)
The First Year-at-Large is elected during the second week as a new member of Warner Hall, and they act as the liaison between the First Year class and organization leadership. They generally promote class unity and unity among classes. The First Year-at-Large works with a given budget to plan class social events and works with the other at-Larges to plan inter-class events. They work with the Sophomore and Junior-at-Larges to plan Senior Roast in the spring.
Section 3.10.
Formal Aid
ONE PERSON; 2 SEMESTER TERM
Formal Aid will select both the date and venue for formal in the upcoming spring. They will manage payments and other entities for formal that need to be planned for Formal in the fall. Holding this position does not necessarily mean one will become formal chair next semester.
Formal Chair
ONE PERSON; 2 SEMESTER TERM
The Formal Chairs plan Warner Hall House’s annual Formal in the spring while keeping within the budget as decided upon by the Formal Chairs and Treasurers.
Section 3.11. Sustainability Chair
ONE PERSON; 1 SEMESTER TERM (any year)
The Sustainability Chair promotes recycling, composting, and generally “going green” within the organization. They ensure that Warner Hall House conforms to all Patterson Court sustainability standards, and they are expected to attend all meetings required by the PCC Sustainability Chair.
Section 3.12 Head of Conduct Council
ONE PERSON; 1 YEAR TERM (any year)
The head of conduct council leads conduct council meetings and attends Extended Board meetings with Warner Hall's Executive & Extended Boards. They are the liaison between Conduct Council and the Executive Board, keeping the members of E-Board "in the loop" about Conduct Council or current cases when appropriate. This position is voted on within Conduct Council- see Conduct Council Bylaws "Conduct Council Members" for appropriate voting process.
Section 4. In the case of vacancy in any office, the Executive Board shall fill such an office by appointment. The appointment shall be for no longer than three subsequent house meetings at which time the office shall be filled by a house election.
Section 5. The E-Board may adopt rules and regulations for the conduct of all meetings and the management of affairs of Warner Hall House as deemed appropriate by the President, provided that these rules and regulations do not conflict with these by-laws.
Section 6. Each former E-Board member is required to act as an adviser to their successor.
All Executive Board positions with notable responsibility are obligated to keep physical records of their responsibilities for future use. A notebook is strongly suggested.
Article VII: Officer Elections
Section 1. Elections are to be held at the end of the spring and fall semesters. This should occur at least two weeks before the end of the exam period to ensure that the outgoing and incoming position holders have sufficient opportunity to meet and discuss position responsibilities. Any changes to the timing or manner of elections must be approved by a majority vote of the E-Board and communicated to the entire house. At a time prior to elections, as determined by the current Vice President, each member who is interested in running for the Warner Hall House E-Board must notify the Vice President of the positions for which they wish to run.
Section 2. In the event that a member running for a specific position on E-Board does not get elected for that position, they may run again for a different position. Therefore, they must notify the Vice President of their preferences in advance. A member may run for a maximum of three positions in one election cycle.
Section 3. Each person on E-Board may only have one position unless there are not enough members running for all specified positions. An exception is the SGA representative, who may hold another position simultaneously due to the incongruence in the SGA election cycle and Warner Hall House’s election cycle.
Section 4. Above, there are a suggested number of house members to fill each position. However, in the event of change and/or necessity, the number stipulated may be changed at the discretion of the President and approved by a majority vote of the E-Board.
Section 5. A member may not hold a position for more than two consecutive semesters unless there is no one else running for the position.
Article VIII: Finances
Section 1. At the beginning of each semester, each member is required to sign a contract financially binding them to Warner Hall House for the semester. In this contract, each member is required to pay dues at an amount that is decided upon by the Treasurers at the beginning of each semester. Any increase in dues should be announced to the E-Board and approved by a majority vote of the E-Board. Members who terminate this contract after the end of the Switching/Adding/Dropping period will still be held responsible for paying the full amount in dues.
Section 1.2: All members must have their board bills signed by the end of the first week of any semester. Those who pay after the first week will be assessed a sanction determined by the Treasurers and President. After two weeks, if the member has not signed a board bill, they will be told that they have become an inactive member of Warner Hall for that semester.
Section 2. Certain E-Board positions are given a percentage discount off of their board bills. The President receives 35% off. The Vice-President and each Treasurer receive 25% off. The Service Chairs, Social Chairs, Recruitment Chairs, Kitchen Manager, and House Manager each receive 10% off. If at any point, Warner Hall House becomes financially unable to offer these discounts, this section is subject to revocation by a majority vote of the Executive Board.
Section 3. All sophomore athletes in-season are given a discount as determined by the Treasurers each semester, knowing that they are required to eat some meals with their team.
Section 4. The Treasurers are required to submit board bills to the Controller’s Office according to Patterson Court Policy. Members who fail to submit board bills on time to the Treasurers will incur a sanction as stipulated by Patterson Court Policy.
Section 5. Any member who has multiple unexcused absences from House Meeting will be sanctioned on the third missed meeting and each subsequent missed meeting as determined by the Secretary and the Treasurers.
Section 6. Any member failing to report to House Cleanup or to send someone in their place will also incur a sanction determined by the House Manager and Treasurers.
Section 7. Any member in default payment of dues, authorized fees, or accounts due to Warner Hall House shall be sanctioned at the discretion of the Treasurers and President. Any unresolved sanction will be turned over to the Office of the Controller at the end of the year.
Section 8. Any E-Board member who exceeds their position’s allotted budget by 10% or greater without prior consent from the Treasurers will be responsible for paying the amount in full to Warner Hall.
Section 9. Any fine or fee incurred due to an E-Board member’s negligence in performing their duties will be paid by the member at fault. This includes, but is not limited to, any overdraft fees due to a Treasurer overdrawing a bank account.
Section 10. The Treasurers may only give pre-imbursements to members for purchases exceeding $150.
Section 11. Treasurers are under no circumstances allowed to give a blank check to a member.
Section 12. Sophomores and juniors who have restricting dietary needs will be given a discount as determined by the treasurers and kitchen manager each semester. If a member has a pre-existing condition, they must inform those in charge upon signing their board bill.
Section 13. If a member shows a financial inability to pay a fine, they must inform the respective chair. The chair will decide an appropriate in-house alternative to paying.
Section 14. Any member whose actions are deemed financially irresponsible to the extent that they endanger the financial health or reputation of Warner Hall House will be prosecuted accordingly.
Section 15. E-Board must determine a sanctioning system at the beginning of each academic year. The President must present the determined sanctioning system to the entire house within the first two weeks of the semester. Sanctioning can include, but is not limited to, extra house clean-ups, social probation for an allotted period of time, or fines. Sanctions will be determined on an individual basis and will increase in severity with each additional infraction.
Article IX: Meetings
Section 1. All members are expected to attend regular house meetings, which are held weekly. An absence can be excused only at the discretion of the Secretary. An unexcused absence may result in a sanction.
Section 2. Executive Board meetings are held every week at a time and place determined by the President. Extended board meetings are held every other week or as needed. All E-Board members are asked to notify the President if they will not be in attendance. All E-Board meetings, both Executive and Extended, are open to the whole organization to attend.
Article X: Service
Section 1. Warner Hall House requires its members to participate in a certain number of service hours each semester as required by PCC and/or the Service Chairs. Members who do not fulfill their service hour requirements are subject to a sanction as decided by the Service Chairs and the Treasurer.
Article XI: Drug Policy
Section 1. The use of any illegal drugs by any member on the grounds of Warner Hall House or at any organization-sponsored function is strictly prohibited. Any organization member who disregards this policy is subject to discharge from the House in addition to a sanction given by the Treasurers and President.
Section 2. The knowledge of any such violation is to be held confidential and is not to be discussed at any E-Board meeting or House Meeting.
Article XII: Alcohol Policy
Section 1. Any alcohol purchased with Warner Hall House funds is strictly for responsible consumption by members of legal drinking age.
Section 2. Any Warner Hall House member who abuses the use of alcohol purchased with organization funds shall be subject to a sanction and/or may be dismissed from the organization. Any unauthorized use of alcohol purchased by Warner Hall House will result in a sanction.
Section 3. Previously unopened alcohol may not be taken from the house unless given permission from the President and/or Social Chairs.
Section 4. Any piece of organization property that may have been damaged as a result of drunkenness or debauchery, as determined by E-Board, must be replaced by the responsible party.
Article XIII: Standards
Section 1. See the Warner Hall Standards document.
Article XIV: These By-laws
Section 1. These by-laws are to be reviewed on an annual basis by the President and any interested organization members. Any changes must be approved by the Executive Board. A majority vote shall be sufficient to make an amendment.
Section 2. Any amendment to these by-laws not in the revision period must also be approved by the Executive Board. A majority vote shall be sufficient to make an amendment.
Section 3. These by-laws were last revised in July 2020.
Section 4. All members are responsible for knowing and abiding by these by-laws.