Dear ATIF Members,
The Board of Directors of the Association of Translators and Interpreters of Florida (ATIF) is pleased to present proposed amendments to our Bylaws for your review and consideration. These updates aim to strengthen our governance, ensure continuity, and expand opportunities for engagement within our professional community.
Summary of Proposed Amendments
- Staggered Board Elections
Currently, the entire ATIF Board is replaced every two years. The proposed amendment introduces staggered elections, allowing only part of the Board to be renewed at a time. This change will:
Promote continuity of projects and institutional knowledge,
Ensure smoother leadership transitions, and
Support long-term organizational stability.
- New Membership Categories
To diversify our membership and open our doors to new and future professionals, ATIF proposes the creation of two new membership categories:
Student Members: Individuals currently enrolled in translation, interpreting, or related language studies. This category will help broaden our membership and foster engagement with emerging professionals in the field. Student Members will not have the right to vote or to run for office.
Honorary Members: A lifelong, dues-exempt membership granted to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of translation or interpreting, or to ATIF itself.
- Clarification on Membership Dues
In cases where a member is expelled from the association for disciplinary reasons, membership dues will not be reimbursed. This clarification ensures transparency and consistency in our financial and disciplinary policies.
Member Review and Voting Process
Members will have 30 days from the date of this message to review the proposed Bylaw amendments.
After the review period, ATIF will send a follow-up message with the official ballot and voting instructions.
Members will have 20 days to cast their votes.
Only active members in good standing will be eligible to vote.
The amendments will be adopted if approved by a simple majority of the votes cast.
We strongly encourage all members to take part in this important process. Your thoughtful review and participation are essential to ensure that ATIF continues to grow as a dynamic, inclusive, and professionally governed association.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support.
Warm regards,
The ATIF Board of Directors