Charter of the Consortium of Chinese Women Mathematicians (CCWM)
Preamble
Recognizing the historical underrepresentation of women in the mathematical sciences and the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion in STEM, we establish the Consortium of Chinese Women Mathematicians (CCWM). Our mission is to overcome structural barriers and cultural biases that limit women's participation in mathematics through advocacy, community building, and targeted support.
This Charter shall at all times be subject to and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China.
The Consortium of Chinese Women Mathematicians (CCWM) is established as a suborganization of the International Consortium of Chinese Mathematicians (ICCM). CCWM operates under the broad framework of ICCM while maintaining its own governance, membership, and activities consistent with this Charter.
Article I: Name, Mission, and Seat
Section 1: Name
The organization shall be known as the "Consortium of Chinese Women Mathematicians" (hereinafter "CCWM" or "the Association"). CCWM is recognized as a suborganization of the International Consortium of Chinese Mathematicians (ICCM). The President of the International Consortium of Chinese Mathematicians and the president of the Hong Kong Mathematical Society shall serve as the council members.
Section 2: Mission
- Encourage women and girls to pursue mathematical education and research careers;
- Create robust support networks for women in mathematics-related fields;
- Promote equitable treatment and opportunities for women in mathematics;
- Challenge and change gender-based stereotypes in mathematics education and professional environments;
- Highlight and celebrate the achievements of women in mathematics throughout history and in contemporary research.
Section 3: Seat
The seat of the Association is Hong Kong, China. The Association may establish offices or chapters in other locations as approved by the Board of Directors. As a suborganization of ICCM, CCWM does not possess independent legal personality and shall not engage in activities beyond the legal capacity of ICCM.
Article II: Membership
Section 1: Categories and Eligibility
- Regular Members: Individuals who identify as women and are engaged in mathematics research, teaching, or applications; typically of Chinese descent or working or studying in China.
- Student Members: Individuals who identify as women and are currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs in mathematics or closely related fields in China.
- Associate Members: Individuals of any gender who support the Association's mission and goals.
- Institutional Members: Universities, research institutes, corporations, foundations, and professional organizations that support the Association's mission.
Applications for membership shall be reviewed and approved pursuant to procedures established by the Board of Directors.
Section 2: Rights and Responsibilities
- All members may participate in Association events and activities and may serve on committees (subject to committee charters).
- Regular and Student Members have voting rights in Association elections; Associate and Institutional Members do not vote unless otherwise provided in the bylaws.
- All members agree to adhere to and promote the Association's code of conduct.
- Members are encouraged to participate actively in mentoring, outreach, and community programs.
Section 3: Dues
- Membership dues shall be established and may be modified by the Board of Directors.
- Waivers or reductions may be granted for students and individuals experiencing financial hardship.
Article III: Governance
Section 1: Board of Directors
- The Association shall be governed by a Board of Directors consisting of 6-12 women members. A Council is established to supervise the work the Board of Directors.
- Board members shall serve staggered three-year terms.
- The Board is responsible for strategic direction, financial oversight, risk management, and organizational policies.
- Vacancies may be filled for the remainder of the term pursuant to procedures set in the bylaws.
Section 2: Officers
- The officers of the Association are the President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer who are appointed by the Board of Directors in consultation with the Council.
- Officers shall be elected by and from among the Board of Directors, unless otherwise provided in the bylaws. The President shall serve a term of three years, and all other officers shall serve a term of two years. No individual shall be eligible to hold the same office for more than two consecutive terms.
- The President provides leadership and represents the Association; the Vice President assists the President and oversees committees; the Secretary maintains records and manages communications; the Treasurer oversees financial matters and budgeting.
Section 3: Elections
- Elections for Directors shall be conducted by electronic ballot.
- Elections shall be held annually to fill expiring seats so as to maintain staggered terms and broad participation.
- Detailed nomination and election procedures shall be set forth in the bylaws, including eligibility, timelines, and ballot integrity.
Section 4: Committees
- The Board may establish standing and ad hoc committees (e.g., Nominations, Awards, Program, Membership, Finance, Ethics).
- Each committee operates under a charter approved by the Board and reports regularly on its activities.
Section 5: Executive Director
- The Board may appoint an Executive Director to manage day-to-day operations and implement Board policies.
- The Executive Director serves as an ex officio, non-voting participant in Board meetings.
Article IV: Operations
Section 1: Meetings and Records
- The Association shall hold regular meetings as specified in the bylaws.
- Meeting minutes shall be maintained and made accessible to members in accordance with the bylaws.
Section 2: Financial Management
- The fiscal year shall run from January 1 to December 31.
- Funds shall be used exclusively for charitable, educational, and scientific purposes consistent with the Association's mission.
- The Board shall approve an annual budget and conduct regular financial reviews and audits as appropriate.
Section 3: Publications and Communications
- The Association may publish newsletters, journals, proceedings, and educational materials.
- All publications and communications shall reflect the Association's commitment to excellence, inclusion, and professionalism.
Section 4: Regional and Local Chapters
- The Association may establish regional and local chapters to advance its mission.
- Chapters must adhere to this Charter and operate under policies established by the Board.
Article V: Amendments
- This Charter may be amended by a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors.
- Proposed amendments must be circulated to members at least 30 days before the vote, with an opportunity for member comment.
Article VI: Dissolution
- Upon dissolution of the Association, remaining assets shall be distributed to one or more organizations with similar missions, as determined by the Board.
- No assets shall inure to the benefit of any private individual or member.