Ratified Constitution

Preamble:
Following a two thousand year-old tradition, faithful Catholic Christians continue to benefit the art of medicine. The image of the selfless,
compassionate, and ethical physician who treats those most in need received its stimulus from Jesus Christ himself and was practiced
by centuries of Catholic Christians.  In a world of increased biomedical specialization, Catholics must present a larger perspective that embraces the dignity of the entire human person and is aware of the ethical principles involved in medical treatment.  Furthermore, Catholics must lead by example, treating poor and sick as images of Christ himself.  Acknowledging these truths, as well as the importance of nourishing the soul through prayer and friendship, we hereby establish the Catholic Society of St. Basil the Great.
Picture
The rod of Asclepius (secular/pagan symbol of medicine) becomes a Biblical symbol (Moses’ bronze snake, Christ’s cross, Paul’s viper). Beneath, it reads ‘Christ the physician, Christ the patient’, words taken from Mt 9.12, 25.36. Interestingly, the words ‘iatros’ and ‘astheneon’ are also used in Hippocratic literature. Above is a star, symbolizing both Texas and Christ/Mary (see Rev. 22.16).
I. Mission
The St. Basil the Great Society sponsors academic discussions, service opportunities, religious events, and social gatherings to encourage
Catholic-Christian judiciousness,  charity, faith, and camaraderie among its members.
II. Aims
The St. Basil the Great Society aims to:
  1. Sponsor academic forums covering topics of interest to Catholic clinicians and researchers, including bioethics, science, theology, literature, and history;
  2. Encourage volunteer service activities for the local and global community,including in medical service and the extraordinary ministry of Holy Communion;
  3. Sponsor the annual White Coat Mass and other opportunities for communal Mass, prayer, and study of the Bible or other spiritual texts;
  4. Encourage socializing and networking among its members, and communication via the internet.

III. Affiliation
In accordance with UTSW Registered Student Organization Guidelines, the Society in no way presumes to act with the authority of UTSW, although its membership is composed primarily of students, faculty, residents, and staff of UTSW.

The St. Basil Society is a chapter of the national Catholic Medical Student Association, which has chapters in medical schools across the nation, including three in Texas.  We pledge fidelity to the Magisterium, and also openness to ecumenism and dialogue.

IV. Fundraising
The St. Basil Society gratefully accepts donations, including those made at the annual White Coat Mass.  In addition, we host fundraisers, such as the selling of t-shirts. 
V. Members

     V.1. Membership
Membership is open to all students (MD, PhD, PA, PT, etc.), faculty, fellows, residents, and staff of UT Southwestern.  In the future, members may be required to pay an annual membership fee.

     V.2. Advisors
Advisors provide advice and support and, when possible, attend major meetings or events.  Advisors should include:
  1. Faculty Advisor(s)
  2. Spiritual Advisor/Chaplain (must be a priest, deacon, or religious)
  3. Newman Center Liaison (when possible)

     V.3. Officers
Officers may include:
  1. President (Pontifex Maximus)
  2. Vice-President (Pontifex Secundus)
  3. Secretary (Scribe)
  4. Treasurer (Tax Collector)
  5. Publicity Chair (Propagandist)
  6. Service Chair (Good Samaritan)
  7. Webdesigner (Dangerous Wizard)
  8. Ph.D. or Allied Health Liaison (Doctor of the Church)

The Society is active when it has a President, Vice-President, and the approval of UTSW and CMSA.

     V.4. Elections
Officers are elected by simple majority vote by members.  As necessary or required, an individual may be elected to more than one office, but not all positions need have officers. 

     V.5. Officers' Responsibilities
  1. President: His/her Eminence serves as the chief spokesperson of the Society to the administration/Student Services.  It is the responsibility of the President to encourage all officers and members in their duties and in the mission of the Society, ensuring that the Society's aims are met.  The President is the coordinator of Society meetings.
  2. Vice-President: His/her Excellency supports the President in all of his/her duties, and acts as President in his/her absence.
  3. Secretary: His/her Punctiliousness maintains any necessary documentation for the society and may aid particularly in securing speakers for Society academic forums.
  4. Treasurer: His/her Parsimoniousness maintains the account of the Society funds, and directs Society fundraising.
  5. Publicity Chair: His/her Proclamorousness publicizes Society functions.
  6. Service Chair: His/her Beneficence encourages volunteer work, whether local or international.
  7. Webdesigner: His/her Wirelessness maintains the Society website.
  8. Ph.D. Liaison: Acts as the chief spokesperson of the PhD students.
  9. P.A. Chair: Acts as the chief spokesperson of the PA students.

     V.6. Non-discrimination clause
The St. Basil Society shall not deny membership on the basis prohibited by applicable law, including sex, race, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, or disability. 

VI. Constitutional Ratification and Amendment
This Constitution shall take effect by a 3/4 vote of membership.  Any amendments may be made with a 3/4 vote.