RASA European Committee Guidelines
RASA European Committee Guidelines
(Approved by the RASA Board of Directors on April 25, 2025)
Composition and Appointment
The RASA European Committee (EC), appointed by the Board of Directors (BoD), functions as an advisory body within the Russian-American Science Association, Corp. (RASA). The EC consists of full RASA members and includes at least the following:
- One member of the RASA Board of Directors.
- Two members from outside Europe and Eurasia.
- Two members representing STEMM disciplines.
- Two members representing the humanities or social sciences.
- Two members from Europe and Eurasia.
The EC proposes a Chair candidate to the BoD for a one-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for another year. Committee members are appointed for a one-year term, with an option for multiple term extensions. If sufficient candidates are available, one-third of the EC membership is rotated annually.
Meetings
The EC holds at least two meetings per year, chaired by the EC Chair or a BoD member, to ensure a structured and effective decision-making process.
Powers and Responsibilities of the EC
The EC is entrusted with the following responsibilities:
- Implementation of RASA Strategy: Expanding the association and refining strategies for strengthening RASA’s collaboration with colleagues and organizations in Europe and Eurasia.
- Developing Scientific and Programmatic Content: Organizing RASA events in Europe and Eurasia, launching historical and cultural projects, mentorship and scholarship programs, and proposing new activities and initiatives.
- Facilitating Decision-Making and Urgent Responses: Ensuring swift decision-making on European and Eurasian matters and responding proactively in critical situations.
- Monitoring Compliance: Ensuring alignment with RASA policies and regulations, including the Conflict of Interests Policy, as well as the laws of the United States and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts regarding RASA’s activities in Europe and Eurasia.
- Organizing RASA Conferences and Workshops in Europe and Eurasia: Selecting event locations, proposing conference chairs and section leaders to partners and program committees, and participating in program committees.
- Enhancing Professional and Educational Development: Supporting the training and academic growth of researchers and students in Europe and Eurasia.
- Grant and Scholarship Programs: Administering grants and scholarships for researchers and students in Europe and Eurasia.
- Cooperation with Similar Professional Associations: Collaborating with European and Eurasian organizations for joint events and collective initiatives.
- Interaction with Government and Other Organizations: Engaging with governmental and non-governmental organizations in Europe and Eurasia, ensuring advocacy efforts align with RASA’s Charter and are coordinated with the President, CEO, or BoD.
- Initiating a Regional RASA Branch: Establishing a regional branch with a defined level of autonomy in grant-related activities, subject to BoD approval.
Exclusive Prerogatives of the Board of Directors
Certain decisions remain the exclusive prerogative of the BoD and are not within the purview of the EC. These include:
- Financial Management and Oversight: The BoD holds exclusive authority over financial management and oversight, including budgeting, financial planning, grant submission and execution, and monitoring of financial resources.
- Appointment of Officers: The appointment of RASA officers, including the selection and dismissal of RASA officers, is solely the responsibility of the BoD.
- Suspension or Removal: The BoD has the exclusive right to suspend or remove any RASA member or officer as is deemed necessary.
In these and other areas, the EC serves in an advisory capacity to the BoD, with executive powers delegated by the BoD as needed.