Established: 2026 (term of 1 year, renewable)
Purpose: To review the AHA’s constitution, bylaws, and governance policies and recommend revisions that strengthen sound governance and organizational effectiveness and ensure that the AHA’s governing documents remain current, functional, and aligned with the AHA’s mission and nonprofit governance best practices. The committee’s work should be performed in consultation with legal counsel to ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and ethical standards and adherence to the AHA’s Congressional charter and founding documents.
The Governance Committee should propose any amendments to the constitution or bylaws for Council consideration at its January meeting. If approved by the Council, any constitutional amendments must also be reported to the membership with arguments pro and con, if appropriate, and be included in the next annual vote for election of officers and committee members. The Governance Committee will coordinate this reporting, for both member- and Council-proposed amendments, in advance of the 2027 election. It will also work with AHA staff to determine when and how to solicit member feedback on the amendments in advance of the election and where and how to announce the proposed amendments and pro/con report.
Membership: Up to 6 members, including the AHA parliamentarian, legal counsel, a member of Council, and an additional 2-3 members with expertise in governance in nonprofits and membership associations. Committee members are appointed by the AHA president.
Assignment to Division: None. Reports directly to Council.