Guidelines for Establishing a New WISDA Chapter outside the United States
1. Eligibility and Authorization
The new chapter must align with the mission, vision, and values of WISDA.
A formal application must be submitted to the central governing body of WISDA for approval.
The chapter must be initiated by a minimum number of founding members (e.g., 5-10 members).
A local leadership team (Governing Board, Secretary, Treasurer, and other necessary roles) must be designated.
2. Financial and Fundraising Guidelines
Membership fees shall align with WISDA’s global fee structure.
Fundraising activities should be pre-approved by the board.
3. Membership and Operations
Membership must be open and inclusive, following WISDA’s diversity and inclusion principles.
The chapter must hold regular meetings.
Local events and initiatives must align with the mission and strategic objectives of WISDA.
4. Branding and Communication
The chapter must use the official WISDA branding and logo in all communications, ensuring consistency.
The chapter must be connected to the LinkedIn profile of WiSDA
It must follow official communication guidelines for social media, websites, and public relations. These include:
Tagging and referencing WiSDA on all posts when possible
Acknowledging WiSDA leadership and central governance in relevant public communications
Chapters may not modify the logo or create local adaptations without approval to ensure brand consistency.
5. Governance, Oversight, and Reporting
Internal bylaws must be created and aligned with WISDA’s constitution/bylaws.
A member of the governing board shall participate in meetings (virtual) of the WiSDA headquarter to report on the activities of the chapter.
Chapters must submit an annual report summarizing membership, financial activity, and event highlights to the WISDA headquarters
6. Events and Programming
The chapter is committed to organizing at least two events per year focused on Women in Science. One should be organized in the week around the UN Day of Women and Girls in Science (F ebruary each year).
These events should promote networking, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing among women in scientific fields.
The chapter may collaborate with academic institutions, research centers, and professional organizations to enhance the impact of these events.
Chapters are responsible for complying with international/local laws and regulations, including financial and event-related rules.
7. Termination or Revocation
WISDA has the right to dissolve the chapter if it fails to comply with policies, engages in unethical activities, or becomes inactive.
A chapter may voluntarily dissolve by notifying the headquarters and following a formal exit process.
These guidelines ensure that all new chapters operate effectively, uphold the values of WISDA.org, and contribute meaningfully to the global mission of promoting Women in Science.