CONSTITUTION FOR
TERPSICHORE: THE MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY DANCE THEATER
COMPANY
ARTICLE I
NAME
The name of this organization shall be Terpsichore: The Mississippi State University
Dance Theater Company
ARTICLE II
PURPOSE
The specific purposes of this organization shall be the following:
1. To exist as a dance theater performance and education organization.
2. To improve participants’ previously acquired dance skills.
3. To present an opportunity for participants to learn and develop new dance skills.
4. To provide Mississippi State University students, faculty, and staff, local high
school seniors, local community citizens, and visiting foreign nationals with
dance talents a creative outlet and a therapeutic release from the stresses of
everyday activity.
5. To give participants opportunities to perform in large scale productions before
large audiences.
6. To provide a means of flexibility and proficiency maintenance in the art form of
dance.
7. To promote awareness of the importance of dance education and performance for
Mississippi State University students to vital MSU officials.
ARTICLE III
LOCATION AND GOVERNMENT
8. The location of this organization shall be Mississippi State University.
9. The organization shall be governed by this Constitution and By-Laws.
ARTICLE IV
MEMBERSHIP
10. Membership categories shall be the following:
1. Active membership composed entirely of Mississippi State University
students, faculty, and staff.
2. Inactive membership composed entirely of alumni and honorary members;
however, inactive members may not be allowed to vote or hold office.
11. To qualify for basic membership (includes both active and inactive members),
applicants must meet the following requirements on or before pre-registration
date at the specified time:
1. Signature and agreement on all important documentation specified in the
By Laws.
2. Completion and submission of all forms necessary for complete
documentation of all Terpsichore members as listed in the By Laws.
3. All University students and permitted high school seniors must hold a
minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
12. To qualify for membership in the Performing Company (includes both active and
inactive members), applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Must meet all the requirements specified for basic membership.
2. Must pass level placement auditions.
13. Membership Selection Procedures:
1. Auditions will be held before a diverse panel of four to five unbiased
judges to determine level placements.
2. Only those applicants completing all pre-registration requirements/
workshop, as stated in the by-laws by the specified date and time, will be
allowed to audition and will gain status as official Terpsichore members.
3. After careful evaluations, each member will be placed in one of two
levels: Beginner or Advanced.
4. Only members earning placement in the Advanced level will receive an
invitation into the performing company.
ARTICLE V
OFFICERS
14. The executive powers of Terpsichore shall be vested in a President, Vice
President, Secretary /Treasurer, and Dance Captain. All positions will be
nominated and voted upon at the beginning of the Fall Semester of that year.
15. Duties and Powers of Officers:
1. Duties and powers of the President
1. Direct correspondence with Faculty Advisor and other upper level
officials.
2. Decides what performances shall consist of.
3. Finalizes all decisions.
4. Establishes all budgets with correspondence from the treasurer of
the organization.
5. Appoints tasks for all executive powers to complete.
6. Establishes deadlines for all organizational tasks.
1. Administers final disciplinary action for misconduct.
2. Supervises all organizational activity.
3. Heads the Education Committee.
2. Duties and powers of the Vice President
1. Assists President with performance decisions.
2. Reports misconduct to President.
3. Administers some disciplinary action for misconduct.
4. Ensures that all assigned tasks are carried out as assigned.
5. Verifies that all deadlines are met.
6. Assists President in supervision of all organizational activities.
7. Checks organization suggestion box.
8. Heads the Performance Committee.
3. Duties and powers of the Secretary
1. Manages all advertising.
2. Writes the minutes for all executive powers meetings and
organizational meetings.
3. Arranges all reservations and appointments at President’s and Vice
President’s discretion.
4. Assures all important documentation and paperwork is completed
and submitted by the associated deadlines.
5. Conducts most telephone, mail, and email correspondence.
6. Heads the Events and Information Committee.
4. Duties and powers of the Treasurer
1. Responsible for researching dance grants and scholarships.
2. Conducts transactions associated with the Terpsichore bank
account.
3. Obtains Faculty Advisor and President’s signature on all financial
transactions.
4. Manages bookkeeping.
5. Upholds the budget set by the President.
6. Gives reports to President, Vice President, and Faculty Advisor on
Terpsichore’s financial status.
7. Tracks member earnings.
8. Suggests pricing on events and merchandise.
9. Manages all buying tasks.
10. Heads the Fundraiser Committee.
5. Duties of Dance Captain
1. Responsible for keeping up with all dance choreography.
2. Is available to teach and help those that need choreography.
2. The Executive Board shall consist of all officers and the members of their
associated committees. Each committee will receive one vote in all matters to be
voted on in Executive Board meetings.
3. The advisor of Terpsichore shall be a member of the faculty or staff at Mississippi
State University.
1. The advisor will have a vote.
2. Alternatives for Selecting Advisors
1. When a faculty advisor resigns from office, the exiting advisor,
President, and Vice President will appoint a new advisor.
2. If a recent advisor is removed from office for any negative reason,
then only the President and Vice President will appoint a new
advisor.
3. Advisors must sign all financial transactions and University approval
forms (including Activity Forms) for events.
4. Removal From Office/Impeachment Proceedings:
1. Officers will be given only two warnings prior to administration of
impeachment proceedings for reasons mentioned in the By Laws.
2. Disciplinary action will occur after second offense.
3. Officer’s repeated failure to heed prior warnings and comply with the
rules and regulations of the city, the school, and the organization will be
subjected to impeachment proceedings.
4. Impeachment will consist of judgment before a panel consisting of the
Faculty Advisor, the remaining Executive Powers, and all active
members of the organization.
5. These proceedings will be called to order following the chain of
command.
6. An officer will stand and announce all the defendant’s offenses to the
panel.
7. The officer will be given an opportunity to stand and plead his or her case
to the panel.
8. All members will vote anonymously on ballots handed to them as they
enter the room.
9. Those ballots will be retrieved and counted immediately by the Executive
Powers and the Faculty Advisor for a majority vote counting as 1 for or
against removal from office.
10. The Executive Powers and the Faculty Advisor will then vote openly
before the entire panel and the defendant, receiving one vote each.
11. An overall majority vote of 3 to 2 or greater determines the officer’s fate.
ARTICLE VI
MEETINGS
19. Meeting Proceedings
1. Meetings will be held in three factions:
1. Organizational Meetings to be held at the end of practice on
Tuesday, once a month if needed.
2. Committee Meetings to be held when best for the members of that
committee.
3. Executive Powers Meetings to be held after practice when needed.
2. Executive powers will be present for all associated meetings.
3. The Heads of each committee will decide how best to effectively conduct
his or her associated committee meetings.
4. Executive Powers Meetings Proceedings
1. Call to Order by the President.
2. Reading of the minutes for the previous Executive Powers meeting
by the Secretary.
3. Committee reports to be given by each Committee Head.
4. Task assignments appointed by the President.
5. Announcements read aloud by the Vice President.
6. Open floor for questions and presentation of activities or subject
matter to vote on.
7. Voting
8. Dismissal
5. Organizational Meetings Proceedings
1. Call to order by the President.
2. Roll call.
3. Collection of dues.
4. Reading of minutes for previous organizational meeting by the
Secretary.
5. Announcements by both the Vice President and the Treasurer.
6. Handout calendars/ new events for the next month’s activities.
7. Open floor for questions.
8. Dismissal.
20. Parliamentary Procedure will not be used in meetings.
21. If there is a called meeting, the members will be notified at least 2 weeks prior to
that meeting through a written or verbal notice.
22. Only the President, Vice President, or Faculty Advisor may call an emergency
meeting to give information not mentioned at previous meetings that involve fast
approaching deadlines or on the basis of repeated notification of misconduct
from instructors, choreographer, other officers, committee members, or members
of the organization. These meetings will be brief and to the point. There will be
no set order of proceedings for these meetings. Meetings may also be called for
Constitution Amending Proceedings as well as Impeachment Proceedings.
23. The quorum for meetings shall consist of the following:
1. The quorum for Organizational Meetings is 100%. All members, both
active and inactive, must be present at all Organizational Meetings.
2. The quorum for Committee Meetings shall be set by the leader of each
committee. Only members of each committee and that committees leader
should be present at each committee’s associated meeting.
3. A quorum consisting of only 25% of the organization’s active membership
is necessary attendance at impeachment, amending proceedings, or called
meetings requiring a vote of the members of the organization.
ARTICLE VII
DUES AND ASSESSMENTS
24. Dues and assessments will be determined by the Faculty Advisor, President, and
Vice President of the organization based on the needs of the organization and its
members in the semester following deliberations.
25. Dues and assessments will be paid at monthly Organizational Meetings and
organizational assessments will be made as needed.
26. All transactions must be signed by the faculty/staff advisor and the President or
Treasurer.
ARTICLE VIII
AMENDING PROCEDURES
27. Amendments to this constitution shall be proposed in writing at least four weeks
prior to the time they are to be voted upon.
28. Adoption of amendments shall be determined by a 2 to 1 majority vote as stated
in the By Laws of those active members present and voting.
ARTICLE IX
REVISIONS
Revision of this Constitution shall be undertaken only if a motion of revision is approved
by a 2 to 1 majority vote of the members present and voting.
If such a revision is approved, it shall be undertaken by a committee appointed by the
President of Terpsichore. The President shall appoint a member to serve as Chairman of
the Revision Committee.
The revision of this Constitution shall be by ballot and shall require a 2 to 1 majority vote
of the members present and voting.
ARTICLE X
NON-DISCRIMINATION CLAUSE
Terpsichore is a non-discriminatory organization. Mississippi State University formally
reiterates and reaffirms its commitment to the principles of equal opportunity, affirmative
action and diversity. Discrimination based upon race, color, religion, sex, national
origin, age, disability, or veteran's status is a violation of federal and state law and
MSU policy and will not be tolerated. Discrimination based upon sexual orientation
or group affiliation is a violation of MSU policy and will not be tolerated. This
nondiscrimination policy applies to all programs administered by the University.
However, this policy should not be construed to infringe upon the free exchange of ideas
essential to the academic environment.
BY-LAWS FOR
TERPSICHORE: THE MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY DANCE THEATER
COMPANY
The following By Laws are in accordance with the Articles and sections stated in the
Terpsichore Constitution. The proposed By Laws should be considered by
paragraph, amended as desired by the organization, and approved as a whole.
29. NAME
1. TERPSICHORE: THE MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY DANCE
THEATER COMPANY
1. This organization is so named in honor of the Greek Muse of
Dance, Terpsichore.
2. If this organization has the potential to be adopted into the
Mississippi State University curriculum in the future, the name of
the performing company associated must remain Terpsichore: The
Mississippi State University Dance Theater Company following
adoption proceedings.
3. No present or former member of this organization may begin
another dance organization outside of or inside of this University
using the name of this organization without the permission of the
proper officials.
30. PURPOSE
1. Terpsichore hopes and strives to convince Mississippi State University
officials to instate and develop a more in depth dance program into the
University curriculum.
31. LOCATION AND GOVERNMENT
1. GOVERNMENT LOCATED AT MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY
1. No meetings of this organization shall be held outside of the
Mississippi State University campus without assurance that all
necessary parties and all willing participants have a means of
attending.
2. All members of the organization not residing on the University
campus are expected to have transportation to and from campus
for practices, classes, and meetings.
3. Beginner participants of Terpsichore’s education courses must
dance only in locations with proper dancing equipment for
beginning dancers such as mirrors and barres.
4. All performance locations shall be reserved as soon as funding
permits the organization to do so. In the event that conflicts arise
with a specific date set for a performance and/or the location in
which that performance was intended to be held, alternative plans
should always be kept on backup.
5. All practice space for set practices shall be reserved in the
preceding semester.
6. All set meeting locations shall be reserved at least one month prior
to the meeting to allow proper notification to members.
7. All called meeting locations shall be reserved at least two weeks
prior to said meeting.
2. ORGANIZATION GOVERNED BY THIS CONSTITUTION AND BY-
LAWS
1. As problems emerge or persist within the organization for reasons
not mentioned in this Constitution, Amending Procedures will
commence within an acceptable time period to immediately fix
those issues.
32. MEMBERSHIP
1. MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES
1. Honorary members shall be composed of local high school seniors,
community citizens, and visiting foreign nationals here for one
semester or more.
2. QUALIFICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP
1. All basic members must possess the following characteristics in
order to be accepted as members of Terpsichore
1. Good overall attitude
2. Good comprehension skills
3. Acceptance of constructive criticism
4. Determination
5. Respect for the art, and others
2. All applicants must submit the following documentation on or
before the set pre-registration/ workshop date:
1. MSU Students:
1. Copy of succeeding semester class schedule
2. Copy of work schedule if applicable
3. Application for membership in Terpsichore
4. Contact Form
5. Waivers and Liability Forms
6. Constitution Contract Agreement
7. Terpsichore Commitment Agreement
8. Filming Release Form
2. Faculty/Staff:
1. Copy of work schedule
2. Application for membership in Terpsichore
3. Contact Form
4. Waivers and Liability Forms
5. Constitution Contract Agreement
6. Terpsichore Commitment Agreement
7. Filming Release Form
3. Alumni:
1. Copy of work schedule if applicable
2. Application for membership in Terpsichore
3. Contact Form
4. Waivers and Liability Forms
5. Constitution Contract Agreement
6. Terpsichore Commitment Agreement
7. Filming Release Form
4. High School Seniors:
1. Signed Parental Permission Slip
2. 2 letters of recommendation from 2 different
sources unrelated to applicant
3. Copy of work schedule if applicable.
4. Copy of other activities schedule if applicable.
5. Application for membership in Terpsichore.
6. Contact Form
7. Waivers and Liability Forms
8. Constitution Contract Agreement
9. Terpsichore Commitment Agreement
10. Filming Release Form
5. Community Citizens:
1. Must be able to travel to and from practices and
classes and arrive on time for these and other
events.
2. Copy of work schedule if applicable.
3. Application for membership in Terpsichore.
4. Contact Form
5. Waivers and Liability Forms
6. Constitution Contract Agreement
7. Terpsichore Commitment Agreement
8. Filming Release Form
6. Visiting Foreign Nationals:
1. Must reside in the Mississippi State University area
for one semester or more.
3. In order for members to receive an invitation into the performing
company, they must possess the following characteristics:
1. Personality in movement
2. Creativity and good improvisation skills
3. Good flexibility
4. Strong general movement (sharpness, grace, flow, etc.)
5. Sustained quality in movement at different speeds
6. Exceptional Memory
7. Knowledge and good execution of basic dance movements
3. MEMBERSHIP SELECTION PROCEDURES
1. Level placement auditions will be held either the Saturday prior to
the last scheduled class day of every semester or in conjunction
with the interest session of the new semester.
2. Only applicants completing all pre-registration requirements will
be allowed to audition. Others will be unable to partake of any
Terpsichore related dance classes until all membership
requirements are met.
3. Only applicants can pre-register themselves. No one else is
allowed to complete pre-registration for any person applying to be
a member of this organization.
4. All applicants completing pre-registration requirements, thus
earning the status of official Terpsichore members, but choosing
not to participate in level placement auditions will automatically
be placed in the beginner level.
5. Only official Terpsichore members will be allowed to participate
in classes during the Performance Semester.
6. Audition procedures shall be conducted as follows:
1. Applicants will submit all forms to the President and Vice-
President who will randomly choose the order in which
each applicant will audition.
2. Judges will need to see all body movement including the
feet and the ankles, and so the required audition attire will
be the following:
3. Members will enter the audition room in groups in
ascending order. These groups may consist of five to ten
members each.
4. A panel consisting of four to five unbiased guest judges
will be evaluating the members in their auditions. These
judges may choose to walk around and through the
members to get a closer look at their movements or they
may sit at a table at the front of the audition room.
5. Auditions will be led by the officers of the organization.
6. All members will be asked to execute basic dance skills
given by the President.
7. These tests are designed to test the dancers’ flexibility,
rhythm, balance, comprehension, creativity, memory,
posture, spotting, centering, usage of space, determination,
stamina, breathing, self control, confidence, and gesture.
8. Following each group audition, members will be dismissed
to the waiting area.
9. Judges will deliberate and tally all scores after each
audition.
10. Level placements will be based on the successful or
unsuccessful completion of a specified number of the
aforementioned basic skills.
11. These tests are designed to test the dancers’ speed, dance
quality, personality in movement, knowledge of the art
form, stamina, and ability to handle pressure.
12. All groups will be immediately dismissed following each
audition.
13. Judges will deliberate after all auditions are complete.
14. After all level placements are complete, the President and
Vice-President will let them know immediately, call or e-
mail all audition participants the night of the audition and
inform them of which level they will be participating in
the following semester.
4. Interest sessions shall be held each semester to recruit new members into
the organization. All Executive Powers will be required to attend these
sessions and the Faculty Advisor will asked to attend. Reservations for
locations to conduct these sessions must be made one month in advance.
The sessions should be carefully planned out beforehand and advertised
for at least one full month before the interest session is commenced.
Refreshments may or may not be served depending on the rules and
regulations of the building in which the interest session is held. It is not a
requirement. Sign-in sheet should be given to keep up with those
interested..
33. OFFICERS
1. EXECUTIVE POWERS
1. Only members of the Performing Company will be allowed to hold
an executive power position.
1. If the President graduates in the middle of the School the
Vice President will take on the responsibilities until the
next elections.
2. DUTIES AND POWERS OF OFFICERS: As mentioned in the
Constitution, each officer governs and supervises the activities of specific
committees and reports those activities to each other at Executive Powers
meetings. The Executive Powers must also abide by the following
guidelines and regulations as well as those later mentioned for all
members in these By Laws:
1. Must demonstrate respect for peers, authority, and non-members of
the organization at all times.
2. Must complete all tasks as assigned to each power by the dates and
times specified.
3. Must be honest about finances, activities, and give constructive
criticism well to peers.
4. Must show progression in dancing as well as in office.
5. Must be cooperative and patient at all times.
6. Must keep up with all information discussed in meetings. Maintain
a 3-ring notebook with specified sections and information inside
and carry with at all times.
3. EXECUTIVE BOARD: The executive board consists of four separate but
equally important committees: the Education Committee, the
Performance Committee, the Events, Information, and Scrapbooking
Committee, and the Fundraiser Committee. Each committee is run by a
specific officer and is responsible for different tasks in the organization.
All members of each committee are required to attend associated
committee meetings. Important information for each committee is listed
below:
1. Education Committee:
1. This committee is headed by the President of the
Organization and consists of the Instructors and
Choreographers.
2. Members must audition or be appointed to gain one of
these two positions, however, there may be as many as
eight or more of each.
3. Audition Procedures:
1. Choreographer/Instructor auditions will be held at
the beginning of the semester.
2. The President and Vice-President will randomly
assign each applicant for choreographer a song to
choreograph a four to eight 8ct. piece to and tell
each applicant what mood is desired to be
portrayed from the song they have been assigned.
3. Each applicant will receive his or her music at most
one month prior to the audition.
4. Instructor applicants will be required to develop a
full lesson plan for one or more of the four primary
dance forms of the organization (Ballet, Jazz, Hip
Hop, Modern).
5. The applicant will be expected to effectively
demonstrate his or her lesson plan before the
judges in auditions.
6. A panel consisting of the President, Vice President,
and Faculty Advisor, and/or two or three unbiased
guest judges will judge the auditions evaluating
each applicant on the following criteria:
1. Choreographers
1. Creativity
2. Personality
3. Patience
4. Exceptional Attitude
5. Exceptional Skill
6. Variety
7. Cooperative Potential
8. Effective Portrayal of Assigned
Mood
9. Use of Space
10. Gesture
11. Rhythm
12. Dynamics
2. Instructors
1. Patience
2. Authoritative Potential
3. Skill Level
4. Knowledge of the style he or she is
desiring to teach
5. Consistency
6. Good Attitude
7. Authoritativeness
8. Self Confidence
9. A love for teaching
10. Creativity in lesson plan
11. Constructive Criticism Delivery
7. Following auditions, all applicants will be
dismissed and judges will deliberate.
8. The President and Vice-President of the
organization will call each applicant and deliver
the results of his or her audition.
9. Those earning positions as either choreographer or
instructor must not be paid for services. These
positions are strictly voluntary.
4. This committee is also in charge of recruiting guest
instructors in other dance forms and major dance
companies.
5. Only guest instructors from professional dance companies
qualify for payment for their services. All other guest
instructors will be permitted to instruct strictly on
voluntary basis.
2. Performance Committee:
1. This committee is headed by the Vice-President of the
organization and consists of the Costume
Designers/Manufacturers, Set Designers/Manufacturers,
Prop Designers/Manufacturers, Music Operators, Lighting
Crew, Videographers, Photographers, Stage Directors, and
Makeup Artists.
2. Applicants for this committee must submit a sample of
work where showing any experience he or she may have
in on ore many of these areas.
3. These positions are strictly voluntary. No payment will be
allotted for anyone holding any of these positions.
4. Members of the organization not participating in the
Performing Company are encouraged to join this
committee and assist with any of these positions he or she
desires. This is not a requirement, however.
5. Duties of Crew Positions:
1. Costume Designers/Manufacturers work with the
Faculty Advisor, President, and Vice-President to
design costumes for major performances based on
the vision the two leading officers encompass for
each piece in those performances. They then take
the designs created and without altering that
design, manufactures the garments for the
performances. If problems arise with the
manufacturing of any garment, he or she must
immediately report those issues to the Vice-
President so that changes to the design can be
discussed.
2. Set Designers/Manufacturers are responsible for the
designing and manufacturing all sets associated
with each performance and assuring each
performer’s safety in those sets.
3. Prop Designers/Manufactures design and
manufacture or acquire all props to be used by the
performers in performances.
4. Music Operators are responsible for playing all
music for performances on cue and editing
performance music as well. They are also
responsible for recruiting live musicians when
needed for any performances.
5. Lighting Crew handles all lighting during stage
performances.
6. Videographers are responsible for effective taping
all performances, editing them, and converting
them to DVD as well as maintaining a Terpsichore
video library which can include a record of all
classes and practices for makeup practice purposes.
7. Photographers are responsible for documenting all
Terpsichore activities on still film for scrap
booking purposes as well as for websites, annual,
and advertising purposes.
8. Stage Directors are responsible for assuring that all
activities on and backstage during performances
run smoothly. They help with costume changes,
inform dancers of when to enter the stage, fix
makeup and hair, keep the dancers hydrated, and
give moral support to the dancers for their work.
9. Makeup Artists are responsible for giving
performers dramatic looks for performances when
necessary or simply assuring that each performer’s
facial expressions are noticeable from the audience
in a dark room.
6. Members of this committee will be required to attend a
specified number of practices throughout the semester.
3. Events, Information, and Scrapbook Committee
1. This committee is headed by the Secretary of the
organization and consists of the Graphic Designers, the
Web Designer, and the Scrapbook Organizer.
2. These positions are strictly voluntary and no one holding
any of these positions will receive payment for his or her
services.
3. Applicants for Graphic Designer and Web Designer must
submit a sample of his/ her work to prove experience.
4. Scrapbook Organizer will be a volunteer dancer from any
of the three levels. He or she must also submit samples of
work for consideration.
5. Duties of Committee Members:
1. Graphic Designers are responsible for designing all
flyers and event posters as well as commemorative
t-shirts, logos and other graphic art for the
organization.
2. Web Designers will be responsible for designing,
updating, and maintaining the Terpsichore Website
as necessary.
3. The Scrapbook Organizer is responsible for
creatively and effectively documenting all
activities of Terpsichore in a well designed a well
organized Scrapbook. In order to carry out his or
her duties, the person holding this position must
attend many different practices, meetings and
events.
4. Fundraiser Committee:
1. This committee is headed by the Treasurer of the
organization and consists of up to ten volunteers from any
of the three dance levels in the organization.
2. This committee is responsible for researching fundraising
opportunities such as grants and scholarships, sales,
donations, etc. and reporting them to the organization.
They are also responsible for checking the status of all
fundraisers already implemented by the organization as
they persist. This organization discusses and makes
suggestions for budgets and pricing.
4. FACULTY/STAFF ADVISOR The advisor should have some dance
experience and have many connections with University officials, dance
performance companies, and many other important contacts as well.
1. The advisor must view all pieces and music prior to performances.
2. New advisors must agree to full participation in the events and
activities associated with the organization.
3. No financial transactions can be completed without the advisor’s
approval and signature.
5. REMOVAL FROM OFFICE/IMPEACHMENT PROCEEDINGS
1. Warnings: Only two before impeachment
1. The first warning will be verbal from the Vice-President of
the Organization or next in command.
2. The second warning will be given through disciplinary
action administered by the President of the organization or
next in command.
2. Possible offenses:
1. Repeated failure to complete assigned tasks and meet
organizational deadlines.
2. Disrespect for authority.
3. Disrespect for peers.
4. Disrespect for non-members of the organization or non-
dance members of the organization.
5. Failure to maintain the minimum GPA requirements.
6. Moral Misconduct (embezzlement, fighting, violation of
MSU honor code, violation of city and state laws,
plagiarism of Terpsichore pieces, etc.)—Could result in
immediate impeachment.
7. Refusal to accept disciplinary action after second offense—
Results in immediate impeachment.
3. Possible disciplinary action:
1. Written and verbal apology to all parties offended as well
as entire organization.
2. Possible removal from performances.
3. Loss of vote in any executive decisions.
4. Results of impeachment proceedings:
1. Majority vote for no impeachment- Officer will remain in
office and continue duties under close supervision of other
Executive Powers and the Faculty Advisor.
1. Immediate removal from office if misconduct
persists with no trial and possible removal from the
organization.
2. Majority vote for impeachment- Officer must immediately
resign from office.
1. Other officers will move up in position and a new
Secretary will be appointed.
2. Officer will not be permitted to hold any other
office position under the organization again.
34. MEETINGS
1. PROCEEDINGS
1. All members will be required to keep a notebook with all
associated Terpsichore information inside and bring that notebook
to each organizational meeting as well as all practices and classes.
2. Only members of the basic classes and members of the Performing
Company as well as officers will be required to attend
Organizational Meetings.
3. Dues for all other members of the organization not dancing in any
of the two levels will be retrieved at their associated Committee
Meetings.
2. PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURE
1. Parliamentary Procedure may be amended into the Constitution in
the future.
3. CALLED MEETING NOTIFICATION
1. If a called meeting requires a vote, members will not be required to
attend.
2. If a called meeting requires a vote, alumni and honorary members
will not be allowed to attend.
35. DUES AND ASSESSMENTS
1. AMOUNTS AND PERCENTAGES
1. Dues: All members of the organization, including non-dancing
members, will be required to pay dues. Dues will be set by the
President, Vice President, and Faculty Sponsor of the organization
based on the needs of the organization for that year or semester.
2. Assessments:
1. Funds raised will go to buy costumes for the performance
2. Funds raised will go directly to the organization for
costumes, equipment, performance supplies, and various
other organizational necessities, events, and activities. The
President, Vice-President, and Faculty Advisor decide
where best to allocate these funds.
2. PAYMENT
1. Dues:
1. Member dues must be paid monthly at organizational
meetings.
2. Committee member dues must be paid monthly at one of
two committee meetings.
3. No one is exempt from paying dues. Those who fail to pay
on time will not be allowed to participate in Terpsichore
events until he or she has done so. Absentee rules will still
apply.
2. Assessments:
1. Members will receive notification of how much earnings
they have acquired in fundraising. No one will receive
their earnings in hand.
2. Other funds will be allocated for specific purposes
considered necessary for the organization.
3. TRANSACTION SIGNATURES
1. Three parties must sign all financial transactions associated with
Terpsichore: The President of the organization, the Treasurer of
the organization, and the Faculty Advisor of the organization.
Failure to abide by this By Law may result in serious disciplinary
action.
36. AMENDING PROCEDURE
1. Only active members of this organization are allowed to propose
amendments to this Constitution and its By Laws.
2. In amendment proceedings, the Faculty Advisor shall receive one vote, the
Executive Powers as a whole shall receive one vote, and the members in
attendance will collectively receive one vote. A unanimous vote of two to
three determines the adoption of a new amendment to this Constitution
and its By Laws.
37. REVISION
1. The Chairman of the Revision Committee shall not be a member of the
Executive Board. He or she is appointed for the sole purpose of
governing amendment proceedings.
The following By Laws are indirectly associated with the Articles and sections
mentioned in the Terpsichore Constitution. The proposed By Laws should be
considered by paragraph, amended as desired by the organization, and approved as
a whole.
38. CLASSES
1. Walk-ins and visitors are not allowed to participate or enter the classroom
without permission from the President and Vice-President of the
organization.
2. There are four main dance disciplines that will be taught on these days:
Jazz, Modern, Ballet, and Hip Hop. Other dance forms will be guest
instructed sporadically throughout each semester.
3. Beginner level classes will be held Mondays at 5:00 PM until 6:00 PM
each semester.
4. Beginner level classes should be held in a facility so that beginning
dancers will have access to mirrors and barres.
5. Beginner level members will learn any choreography for minor
performances within the class hour.
6. Advance level classes will be held Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays
from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
7. Advance level classes will be strictly for conditioning and developing old
and new skills in each discipline.
8. Members of the Performing Company must attend all classes..
9. Classes may be videotaped daily with proper consent from all parties
involved.
10. Members of the Advanced level may attend Beginner level classes for
extra conditioning or to assist the instructor. Beginner level dancers may
likewise attend Intermediate level classes for conditioning purposes with
exception of the performing semester. They must not, however, disrupt
class proceedings in any way. This does not give any dancer permission
to skip his or her own classes for his or her own specific level.
11. Instructors and choreographers will take roll at the beginning of each
class and practice.
12. Members who must miss a class or practice for any non-emergency
reason must give two weeks notice to the President and Vice President of
the organization.
13. If a member misses a practice they are responsible for getting the
information taught.
14. Members will be notified via email if classes are cancelled for any
reason.
15. The Faculty Advisor, President, or Vice President reserves the right to
randomly inspect classes and ensure that they are running smoothly and
properly.
39. PRACTICES
1. The final two Saturday practices before major performances will be full
day practices and all parties associated with that performance will be
required to attend. No exceptions.
40. APPAREL
1. Males must wear belts or cups under costumes and all other dancewear.
2. All Terpsichore performance costumes as well as public appearance
uniforms excluding t-shirts must be returned at the end of each year for
inventory purposes.
3. Beginning Members will need the following garments before the start of
each semester:
1. Females
1. One pair of pink ballet shoes (No Pointe shoes)
2. One pair of pink ballet tights
3. One black leotard
4. One pair of black jazz pants
5. One pair of black jazz shoes
6. Hair pulled back, out of eyes, and off of shoulders
2. Males
1. One pair of black ballet shoes
2. One fitted white T-shirt
3. One pair of black jazz pants
4. One pair of black jazz shoes
5. One dance belt or a cup
4. Good items to have:
1. Shoes (ballet, lyrical, jazz, hip hop, Pointe)
2. Bottoms (shorts, jazz pants, capris, gouchos, leggings)
3. Leotards
4. Unitard
5. Tights
6. 1 Shrug with matching short or skirt
7. 1 Pair of leg warmers
8. Company Warm-ups
9. 1 Practice bag
10. 1 Garment bag (Company members only)
11. Company Uniform
41. SAFETY REGULATIONS
1. This organization will follow accepted dance safety guidelines and a copy
of those guidelines will be provided to each member of the organization.
2. First aid kits must be on hand at every practice and class.
3. No chewing gum or candy during classes or practices.
4. Fire exits should not be obstructed.
5. Spills should be cleaned up immediately.
6. Members should not attempt any movement without an appropriate warm-
up.
7. Members should refrain from any unsafe act that might endanger them or
their peers.
8. No member should engage in horseplay.
9. No member will report to classes or practices under the influence of
alcohol or non-prescription drugs. Drinking of alcoholic beverages or
taking non-prescription drugs while on the job is strictly forbidden.
10. Report immediately any unauthorized use of equipment or work areas to
supervisors.
11. Members should be aware of their surroundings and know where and
what others are doing around them.
12. Supervisors should make certain that dance spaces are unobstructed and
well lighted.
13. Supervisors should make certain that dance floors are clean and dry.
14. All participants should familiarize themselves with the particularities of
the rehearsal/performance space.
15. Anyone who takes a rehearsal space into complete darkness must inform
participants before doing so.
16. Participants with special health concerns should inform the supervisor.
17. Appropriate footgear and clothing should be worn at all times.
18. If flames are to be used in any performance, participants must follow all
fire protection and fire safety guidelines.
19. Know the location of the nearest first-aid station, phone, fire
extinguisher, fire alarm pull station, and fire exit at all times.
20. Report all injuries or accidents immediately to the supervisor, no matter
how slight.
21. If serious injury should occur, call 911 immediately.
22. Rehearsal space should be left in the condition in which it is found, or
better.
23. “Buddy up” when traveling to and from rehearsals, particularly at night.
Never check dressing rooms or isolated backstage areas by yourself.
Crew members will follow separate theater safety guidelines as well.
Each member will receive a copy of these guidelines.
42. EXPECTED BEHAVIORS AND STANDARDS
1. All members will receive a copy of the Terpsichore Constitution and are
expected to know and understand the rules and regulations and the
consequences for violating those rules and regulations.
2. Members must be respectful of choreographers and instructors in practices
and classes.
3. Members must be punctual for all practices, meetings, and classes. Only a
five minute grace period will be allotted for those in classes or at work
prior to the scheduled time of these three events.
4. Members must be respectful of peers, non-dance Terpsichore members, as
well as non-members of the organization, and officers at all times.
5. All members must pay dues on time or face penalties.
6. Costumes and uniforms must not be worn in public for reasons
unassociated with the organization.
7. Members must show full participation in classes and practices as well as
other organizational events or be dismissed with penalty.
8. All members of the Performing Company must return from breaks on time
or face a penalty.
9. Uniforms and costumes must not be worn while drinking, smoking, or
participating in illegal activity.
10. Participation in illegal activity of any kind is prohibited.
11. Members should check their emails often to receive news and update for
the organization.
12. Cell phones must be turned off or placed on vibrate before entering a
meeting, practice, or classroom.
13. All members must come dressed and ready to go for class and practice.
14. Members must stay for the entire class, meeting, or practice. No one will
be allowed to leave early without permission from the President and Vice
President of the organization.
15. There should be no excessively vulgar movements in any piece.
16. Members should not engage in physical altercations unless under a class
setting (Boxing, karate, etc.)
17. There should be no “plagiarism” of Terpsichore performance pieces.
18. All members are required to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5/4.0.
19. Members must agree to obey the rules and regulations of this
organization.
20. Members must agree to obey the rules and regulations of this University.
21. Members must agree to obey the rules and regulations of this city and
state as well as all other cities and states in this country.
MISCONDUCT PENALTIES
22. Members will be required to apologize to all parties offended as well as
the entire organization for disrespectful behavior. This behavior will also
constitute a write-up.
23. Members will be removed from classes or practices for lack of
participation. .
24. Leaving Terpsichore related events early without proper permission will
result in a fine.
25. Requiring members to undergo any physical strain as a result of
misconduct is considered a form of hazing and is prohibited. Those in
violation of this regulation will be dealt with immediately upon
accusation of such activity.
ADVERTISING
26. Major performances should be advertised at the outset of each semester.
27. Poster/Flyers should be posted at least one month prior to any event.
28. The organization will provide advertisement to the proper officials to be
placed in summer orientation packets.
29. The organization should take advantage of every avenue possible for
advertising such as newspapers, internet, radio, word of mouth,
television, etc.
30. Twenty flyers must be submitted to Herbert Hall for approval before they
can be posted in dorms.
PERFORMANCES
31. The purpose of performances is to provide a place to recognize the efforts
of the dancers and their athleticism.
32. There will be one major performance per year and several minor
performances per semester.
33. Lee Hall Auditorium must be reserved six months prior to major
performances if it is to be used.
34. All three levels will participate and perform in minor performances.
35. All members of the organization will clean up after all performances.
36. The President, Vice President, and Faculty advisor reserve the right to
pull pieces from any performance if they do not meet the standards set for
the organization.
37. Receptions will be held after all major performances for all parties
associated with the production of the performance and their family and
friends.
FUNDRAISING/STANDARD COSTS
38. Members will wear matching T-shirts for all group assembly fundraiser
functions if available.
39. Fundraising will be done in the fall semester. One small fundraiser may
be done in the spring. These may include candy sales, raffles, bake sales,
etc.
40. Donations will be accepted at any time, but members may choose to do a
donation drop fundraiser at a busy location on campus or in the city.
41. Major Performance Admission fees will be as follows:
1. $8 to $15.00 for adults.
2. $3 to $5.00 for Mississippi State students with student ID and kids
5 to 9 years of age
3. Free for kids 4 years of age and younger and Seniors 65 years of
age and older.
42. Teambuilding exercises will be budgeted a maximum of $150.00 per
exercise.
43. The funds raised throughout the year will be applied to the following
organizational necessities:
1. Costume materials
2. Dance equipment
3. Costume accessories
4. Performance supplies
5. Instructional videos
6. Music
7. Printing and Advertising
8. Uniforms for public appearances (T-shirts, Warm-ups, etc.)
9. Performance location reservations
10. Group transportation
11. Professional Guest Instructors
12. Professional Photography and Videography
13. Storage
14. Necessary Video/Music editing software
15. Performance receptions
16. Team building exercises
17. Awards banquets
18. Practice and meeting refreshments
44. The following items will be purchased for every end of the year Awards
Banquet:
1. Awards
2. Gifts
3. Table favors
4. Food
5. Décor
6. Banquet location
TRANSPORTATION
45. Members of the organization may car pool to any off campus events and
performances.
46. Transportation may be rented if funds permit the organization to do so.
47. Members must follow all vehicle safety rules and all traffic laws for this
state and the city of Starkville.
48. All drivers of state owned vehicles must have a valid Mississippi driver’s
license.
49. The driver of any state owned vehicle is responsible for a pre-driving
inspection of the vehicle to check the correct operation of all safety
devices. Tail lights and turn signals must be kept clean, visible, and
operating. All unsafe, inoperable, or defective equipment must be
reported to the technical director.
50. Do not tailgate. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you
at all times.
51. Posted speed limits will not be exceeded at any time. Keep in mind that a
slower speed may be required under certain conditions such as snow,
rain, fog, freezing rain, etc.
52. Operating a vehicle while in an intoxicated condition is strictly
prohibited. No alcoholic beverages are allowed in state owned vehicles.
53. Disabled vehicles must be parked completely off the traveled surface of
the road.
54. Pop bottles and other trash will be kept out of the cab of all vehicles.
55. When backing up, be sure no vehicle, person or object is in the way. This
may involve getting out of the vehicle and checking the rear.
56. All members must wear seatbelts at all times.
57. In case of an accident, the driver must not move the vehicle until
receiving instruction from the State Police.
DISCIPLINE-SUSPENSION AND DISMISSAL POLICY
58. Repeated misconduct and disrespect for peers and those in positions of
authority will result in suspension.
59. Blatant disregard for the rules and regulations of this organization and
this University will result in suspension.
60. Fifteen write-ups will result in dismissal from the organization.
61. A deterioration of one’s GPA to a number lower than the minimum
required GPA will result in automatic probation.
62. Alcohol abuse will result in probation.
63. Conviction of a crime will result in automatic dismissal from the
organization.
64. Drug abuse will result in automatic dismissal from the organization.
65. Embezzlement will result in automatic dismissal from the organization.
66. Suspension includes exclusion from performing in any performances for
a week and/or prevention from participating in Terpsichore related events
for a week.
67. Probation prevents a member from holding office, instructing or
choreographing pieces, and performing in major performances for an
entire semester.
68. Dismissal from the organization is permanent. Anyone dismissed for any
reason will not be allowed to re-audition for the organization again.
69. Members who choose to leave the organization mid-semester must re-
audition to re-enter and may not do so for up to one year following their
resignation. Only exceptions are students withdrawing from the
University for personal reasons.
OTHER RULES AND REGULATIONS
70. Members will be required to attend community service events.
71. There will be at least two community service events.
72. All absences are unexcused unless the member is in a class at the time of
practice, sick, experiences a death in the family, or is hospitalized for any
reason.
73. A comment/suggestion box will be stationed at a specified location with
comment slips as well. Members may drop complaints, suggestions, or
comments into the box anonymously or non-anonymously whenever they
wish to do so.
7. Members cannot be demoted to a lower level.
8. Anyone leaving the organization for a semester or more must re-audition
to re-enter.
9. The Faculty Advisor will keep all organization credit cards and checks.
The Treasurer will be responsible for retrieving these items from the
Faculty Advisor when he/she needs to purchase anything for the
organization.
10. This organization will hold and maintain a bank account with a trusted
local bank.
________________________________________________________________________
Terpsichore Constitution and By Law Agreement Contract
I ___________________________ have read and understand the rules and regulations set
forth in this Constitution and its By Laws. I understand the consequences for misconduct
and I agree to accept all consequences for my actions, follow all safety specifications, and
fully participate in all functions and activities associated with this organization. I
appreciate the hard work and dedication this organization will require in order to continue
to run smoothly and effectively. I agree to uphold and obey this Constitution and By
Laws as a member of this organization, and I will strive to live up to the expectations of
this organization and I will do my part to help this organization reach its goals.
_____________________________ _____________________________
Applicant Signature Print Name
_____________________________ _____________________________
Date Position
_____________________________ _____________________________
Parent’s Signature (If under 18) Print Name
_____________________________ _____________________________
Faculty Advisor Signature Print Name
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