MDSP By-Laws

Article I: Name and purpose

Name

The organization is named the Maryland & DC Society of Pathologists, referred to as MDSP.

Purpose

MDSP is a nonprofit organization that advances pathology through education, research, advocacy, and support for pathologists and trainees. It fosters professional collaboration, represents members' interests, and promotes excellence in pathology practice.

Article II: Membership

Eligibility

Membership is open to licensed pathologists, pathology residents and fellows, medical students, and other professionals with an interest in pathology.

Membership categories

• Maryland Pathologist: Licensed pathologists practicing or residing in Maryland.
• DC Pathologist: Licensed pathologists practicing or residing in Washington, D.C.
• Other Medical Professionals: Professionals in related fields who support MDSP's mission.
• Maryland or DC Resident/Fellow Trainee: Pathology residents and fellows training in Maryland or D.C.
• Out-of-State Pathologist: Licensed pathologists practicing outside Maryland or D.C.
• Out-of-State Resident/Fellow Trainee: Pathology residents and fellows training outside Maryland or D.C.
• Emeritus/Retired: Retired pathologists who have made significant contributions to MDSP.
• Maryland or DC Medical Student: Medical students in Maryland or D.C. with an interest in pathology.

Dues

The Board of Directors sets membership dues annually. Dues must be paid by the established deadline for a member to remain in good standing.

Rights and responsibilities

Licensed Maryland and D.C. pathologists may vote, hold office, and participate fully in MDSP activities. Other membership categories may participate in society activities but do not have voting rights.

Article III: Board of Directors

The Board consists of the President, President-Elect, Past President, Treasurer, standing committee chairs, and at least five Members-at-Large. It manages MDSP affairs, establishes strategy, oversees finances and budgets, and supports legal and regulatory compliance.

• The Board meets at least annually; the President or a majority of Board members may call a special meeting.
• Standing committees meet at least annually before the annual Board meeting.
• A majority of Board members constitutes a quorum.
• Board members serve two-year terms and may be reelected.
• A two-thirds Board vote may remove a member for cause; remaining Board members fill vacancies by majority vote.

Article IV: Officers

MDSP officers are the President, President-Elect, Secretary, and Treasurer.

• President: Presides over meetings, represents MDSP publicly, and ensures society policies are carried out.
• President-Elect: Assists the President and assumes presidential duties when required.
• Member-at-Large: Represents the general membership in key society issues and decisions.
• Treasurer: Manages finances, prepares annual budgets, and reports to the Board.

Article V: Committees

Standing committees are chaired by Board-appointed members.

1. Legislative & Advocacy Committee: Monitors legislative and regulatory matters affecting pathology.
2. Education and Research Committee: Plans educational events, lectures, and research initiatives.
3. Membership Committee: Supports recruitment, retention, and member engagement.
4. Finance Committee: Assists the Treasurer with financial oversight and reviews grant applications and awards.
5. Education Committee: Supports educational opportunities, mentorship, and career advancement.
6. Programming Committee: Plans society events and activities.

The Board may establish special committees to address specific projects or issues.

Article VI: Meetings of members

MDSP holds an annual member meeting to elect officers, receive reports, and conduct society business. The President, the Board, or 10% of active members may request a special meeting. Twenty percent of active members constitutes a quorum.

Article VII: Finances

MDSP's fiscal year runs from January 1 through December 31. The Board approves an annual budget, and expenditures must follow that budget unless separately authorized. The Treasurer provides a financial report at each Board meeting and an annual report to members. The Board may request an independent audit or review.

Article VIII: Amendments

The by-laws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of members present at an annual or special meeting when members receive at least 30 days' notice of the proposed amendment.

Article IX: Dissolution

If MDSP dissolves, remaining assets are distributed to one or more organizations with similar purposes that qualify for exemption under Section 501(c)(6) of the Internal Revenue Code.