2020 Vision - Restructuring Governance

Starting in 2014, the GSA Council embarked on a deliberative process to examine and update GSA’s governance structure. This was done to capitalize upon GSA’s strengths and facilitate a more strategic and efficient organization. With GSA’s 75th anniversary approaching in 2020, it is indeed an opportune time to evaluate the organization and optimize its structure and processes so that we meet the ever-changing demands of our members and the field of gerontology.

Based upon an in-depth organizational assessment conducted by Quantum Governance (an outside consultant) and extensive work by volunteer leaders, specific recommendations have been prepared in a document titled “2020 Vision for Growth & Impact – Restructuring of GSA Governance.”

Vote Results

The amended bylaws and articles of incorporation were voted on by GSA members from January 10 to 31, 2019. By a 95% majority of ballots cast, GSA members have voted to approve changes to GSA’s bylaws and articles of incorporation, authorizing a plan to make several major updates to the Society’s governance structure. These amendments will take effect November 1, 2019.

Benefits

This proposed evolution of our governance structure would better serve our members’ needs in many ways. Among them:

• Increasing member service opportunities for professional growth
• Stimulating greater interdisciplinary networking
• Transition of governance activities to a new board enables section officers to focus on professional, educational, and scientific activities

Resources

We have several resources that summarize the changes to GSA’s governance structure.

• Approved amended bylaws
• Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation
• Listen to GSA Past President David Ekerdt explain the amended bylaws and provide an overview of the “2020 Vision for Growth and Impact” plan
• The “2020 Vision for Growth and Impact – Restructuring of GSA Governance” document
• A list of frequently asked questions
• An infographic highlighting key elements of the vision

Timeline

Friday, September 21, 2018: All members invited to submit comments via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Monday, October 8, 2018: Comments would be most helpful by this day
Mid-November 2018: Email box will close for final comments
Wednesday, November 14, 2018: GSA Council voted on and approved the final plan
January 10-31, 2019: Amended bylaws and articles of incorporation submitted to GSA membership for a vote
Friday, February 8, 2019: Amended bylaws and articles of incorporation results announced
Friday, November 1, 2019: Amended bylaws to take effect