AKC Delegate

Elected every 2 years by the membership

What are the unique powers of a Delegate?

• Approves Rules governing dog shows and field trials

• Approves amendments to the AKC Bylaws

• Nominates and elects Delegates to serve on the AKC Board of Directors & Delegate Standing Committees

• Approves new member clubs

• Votes to uphold or overrule an AKC Board decision to disapprove a Delegate candidate or to remove a seated Delegate

• Only a Delegate may serve on the AKC Board

• Votes to discipline, and even to expel, a Member Club

How do they exercise these powers?

• Attends and votes at quarterly Delegate Meetings

• Attends and/or Participates with Delegate Standing Committees

• Brings Member Club’s proposals to the Delegates and/or Delegate Standing Committees

• A Member Club, through its Delegate, may propose amendments to the AKC Bylaws or AKC Rules directly to the AKC Board

• Informs all members of their Member Club of Delegate actions

• Acts as ombudsman for Member Club members dealing with AKC

What are the qualifications for a person to become a Delegate?
Required– Article VI of the AKC Bylaws

• Represents a Member Club

• Both Member Club and individual are in good standing with AKC

• Is a resident US citizen or has permanent resident alien status

• Meets all of the occupational eligibility criteria

• May not have been found guilty of or admitted to the theft, embezzlement or misappropriation of funds or property from an AKC Club

Suggested – for perspective and continuity

• Ten year involvement in AKC events and/or activities

• Willingness to serve for five years or more

• Willingness to invest time, effort and expenses

• Willingness to speak up and become involved

• Willingness to engage others in crucial conversations

• Access and skills to use a computer or the support of someone with the access and skills

What should a Member Club expect from their Delegate?

• Long term (5 years or more) commitment to represent and serve the Member Club

• Commitment to attend and participate at Delegate Meetings

• A timely report on the actions taken at Delegate Meetings

• Presentation of actions/issues that will come before future Delegate Meetings

• When applicable, vote as directed by the Member Club

What should your Delegate expect from the Member Club?

• Long term appointment as Delegate

• A forum to report on what transpired at Delegate meetings

• Discussion and guidance on forthcoming actions/issues

• Assistance with Delegate expenses to expand who might become Delegates and to maximize their participation