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About AAPOR

Founded in 1947, the American Association for Public Opinion Research is the leading association of public opinion and survey research professionals.

The AAPOR community includes producers and users of survey data from a variety of disciplines. Our members span a range of interests including election polling, market research, statistics, research methodology, health-related data collection and education.

Membership in AAPOR is all about opportunity – the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of leaders in the survey and public opinion research field, the opportunity to network and exchange knowledge and the opportunity to improve how survey research is conducted and disseminated.

Learn more about the benefits of AAPOR membership.

Membership Benefits
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“I became a member of AAPOR more than 20 years ago, primarily to advance my own career. I CONTINUE to be a member of AAPOR to help advance the survey and public opinion research field.”

Robert Santos, The US Census Bureau

“My membership in AAPOR is vital in maintaining regular contact with our professional colleagues from around the nation and in keeping up to date with the latest developments in public opinion and survey research.”

Jon Cohen, SurveyMonkey

"It is our members' professionalism, experience and dedication to excellence that makes AAPOR a leader in enhancing and promoting the public opinion and survey research industry."

Nancy Mathiowetz, AAPOR President, 2007-08

Our Vision

Valid and transparent data about behaviors, attitudes and characteristics enables informed societal decision making.

Our Mission

As a diverse community of scholars and practitioners, AAPOR sets and advocates for high standards and best practices in pursuit of our vision. We encourage inclusive, interdisciplinary collaboration to fuel innovation. We champion and clearly articulate the significance of sound work in our field to ensure its value is understood widely.

Amended: April 2024

AAPOR History

The American Association for Public Opinion Research has a long and rich history.

AAPOR was founded in 1947 by a group of dedicated public opinion research pioneers. They and about 70 of their colleagues had responded to a call from Harry H. Field, director of the National Opinion Research Center, then at the University of Denver, to attend a meeting in Central City, Colorado, July 29 – 31, 1946. The meeting was held in the historic Opera House.

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Code of Ethics

All AAPOR members sign the Code of Professional Ethics and Practice, pledging to maintain high standards of scientific competence and integrity in conducting, analyzing and reporting not only the results of their research but the methods behind them. Much of AAPOR’s work is focused on developing and promoting resources that help researchers meet these demanding, but vital standards.

Together we:

  • Promote best practices in collecting, analyzing and interpreting survey data.
  • Educate practitioners on new developments affecting our field, and help policymakers and the public make better use of surveys and survey findings.
  • Advocate the highest standards of ethical conduct.
  • Encourage and disseminate research and innovations that improve our methods.

Strategic Plan

AAPOR’s Strategic Planning Task Force met in late February 2024 to take a deep dive into the organization, its past and its future to develop a set of five domains, including measures of and goals for success, to lead AAPOR through the next three years. These domains include:

    1. Educate and Support
    2. Advance Best Practices
    3. Foster an Engaged Community
    4. Grow Our Voice
    5. Cultivate Sustainability

Members on this task force reviewed past and current information on the organization including membership surveys, financial reports, Executive Council minutes, and strategic planning survey data.

View the Strategic Plan

AAPOR2025 is a decade-long initiative to help define the future for AAPOR as an association of members united around a common set of interests.  The cornerstone is the AAPOR2025 Strategic Vision, which provides forward-looking guidance for the long-term strategic thinking of the association over the next decade.

Consistent with our mission and goals, the AAPOR2025 Strategic Vision serves as a statement on the character and purpose of AAPOR in the year 2025 with the hope of ensuring that our organization remains vibrant, prominent and relevant for future generations of members.

Developed by a task force established by AAPOR Executive Council in December 2013, the document reflects the views and opinions of a wide range of members and focuses on several critical areas:

  • Upholding our shared common values and member diversity across multiple dimensions
  • Embracing new ways of conceptualizing and measuring “opinions” while maintaining our focus on scientific rigor and transparency
  • Serving members at all career stages through professional development and education
  • Advocating and educating the public, news media, decision-makers and other on the importance of quality measurement and need to support organizations critical to our field
  • Embracing a true global leadership role in our industry

More specific actions to meet the AAPOR2025 and other association goals are contained in AAPOR’s Strategic Plan, which serves as a short- to mid-term blueprint for Council, committee and task force activities. The most current version of this plan was updated by the 2013-14 AAPOR Executive Council.

Comments on AAPOR2025 and the Strategic Plan are welcome. Please email comments with the subject line: AAPOR2025.

Download AAPOR25 Strategic Vision

Consistent with the mission and goals of the
Association, the AAPOR2025 Strategic Vision is established by AAPOR Council as a statement on the
character and purpose of AAPOR in the year 2025 to ensure the Association remains vibrant, prominent,
and relevant for future generations of members.

Read the Report

Bylaws (As amended October 21, 2020)

Download Bylaws

Article I: Offices

Section 1. Principal Office. The principal office of the American Association for Public Opinion Research (hereinafter referred to as AAPOR) in the State of Delaware shall be in the City of Wilmington, County of New Castle, and the resident agent in charge thereof shall be the Corporation Trust Company.

Section 2. Other Offices. AAPOR may have offices at such other place or places as the Executive Council may determine from time to time.

Article II: Members

Section 1. Membership Qualifications. Any person professionally engaged or interested in research or study in the field of public opinion and survey research, can be accepted as a member of AAPOR if they meet the following qualifications:

a) Completes and submits an AAPOR membership application.  On that application they acknowledge that they have read and subscribe to the AAPOR Conduct Policy and the AAPOR Code of Professional Ethics and Practices (referred to in Article IX of these bylaws), and hereafter referred to as the Code, and;

b) Remits the appropriate annual dues for their membership class as listed on the application and described in Section II.2.

Section 2. Classes of Membership. There shall be four classes of  membership: (a) Regular membership; (b) Student membership, limited to full-time students at an accredited college or university; (c) Joint membership, available to one individual living in the same household as a regular member; (d) Honorary life membership, for which AAPOR members are eligible when they attain the age of 65, provided they have held membership in AAPOR for at least 25 years and have relinquished full-time employment. Honorary life memberships may include any or all regular membership benefits, as determined by the Executive Council.

Section 3. Hardship Waiver.  AAPOR members who are experiencing extreme financial hardship may request the Executive Council to grant a one-year waiver of their membership dues. If granted, the member retains their rights as a member during that waiver period.

Section 4. Duration of Membership.  A member shall continue as such as long as annual dues are paid, or a hardship extension is in effect, until withdrawal, death, or termination or suspension of their membership as hereafter provided. The membership of any Member may be terminated by the Secretary-Treasurer if such Member has not paid their dues within six (6) months from the assessment thereof.

Section 5. Membership Termination and Suspension. Membership that has been terminated or suspended because of non-payment of dues will be reinstated when the appropriate dues are paid, providing they have not been terminated for other reasons stated hereinafter.

The Executive Council may suspend or terminate a Member’s membership status for a violation of the AAPOR Conduct Policy or the AAPOR Code under the following conditions:

(a) The finding that such member is guilty of violating the AAPOR Conduct Policy or the AAPOR Code must be made in accord with the established procedures for investigating alleged violations of the Conduct Policy or the Code.

(b) Both the finding of violation and the termination or suspension of membership must be voted by at least two-thirds (2/3rds) of the Executive Council members present at the meeting at which such votes are taken.

Article III: Meetings of Members

Section 1. Annual Business Meeting. The annual meeting of the Members will be held at an announced time and place during the Annual Conference. The annual meeting will be used to: (a) announce the winners of the election of Executive Councillors that has been held according to Article IV, Section 3; (b) transact other business for consideration of all members as listed on the agenda prepared by the Executive Council and distributed by the Secretary-Treasurer; (c) review the past year’s activities and discuss future actions of AAPOR; and (d) discuss business suggested by AAPOR Members. An official record of the annual meeting will be presented by the Secretary-Treasurer in AAPOR publications including Public Opinion Quarterly, the official AAPOR website, or other communications media as appropriate or directed by the Executive Council. Administrative business such as the approval of minutes and motions to adjourn shall not be subject to quorom requirements.

Section 2. Special Meetings. A special meeting of the Members for any purpose or purposes, unless otherwise prescribed by statute, may be called by the President or by order of the Executive Council at any time and shall be called upon the request of at least one-hundred fifty (150) Members entitled to vote thereat.  The request for a special meeting may be announced and approved through appropriate communications media such as electronic communication or mail.

Section 3. Place of Meeting. Each meeting of the Members of AAPOR shall be held at such place within or without the State of Delaware as shall be fixed by the Executive Council. For Member voting, this meeting may be helf online and consist of the process of voting.

Section 4. Notice of Meetings, Proxies. Notice of each meeting of the Members, whether annual or special, shall be given to each Member entitled to vote thereat, stating the purposes thereof and every matter to be voted thereon together with a proxy enabling each such Member to vote either for or against every such matter, not less than fifteen (15) nor more than forty (40) days before the day on which the meeting is to be held, by delivering a notice thereof to such Member  by their preferred communication method such as electronic communication or mail.

Section 5. Quorum. At each meeting of the Members, except at the Annual Business Meeting and as otherwise provided by law, twenty-five percent (25%) of the Members entitled to vote thereat shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business that requires a vote of the membership. In the absence of a quorum any Officer entitled to preside at, or act as Secretary of, such meeting, shall have the power to expand the discussion of the business and the vote to the full membership via electronic communication or the mail.

Section 6. Voting. At each meeting of the Members, every Regular, Honorary Life, Joint, and Student Member of AAPOR in good standing shall be entitled to one vote in person or by proxy. Any vote may be given by the Member entitled thereto in person or by proxy and via an electronic vote or by mail. At all meetings of the Members, all matters (except as otherwise provided by law, by the Certificate of Incorporation of AAPOR or by these bylaws) shall be decided by a majority of the votes cast by the Members voting in person or by proxy.

Section 7. List of Members. It shall be the duty of the Chairperson of the Membership and Chapter Relations Committee, or other Officer of AAPOR authorized by the Executive Council to maintain a list of members entitled to vote. This list will be made available upon request to be examined by any member.

Article IV Executive Council

Section 1. General Powers. The property, affairs and business of AAPOR shall be managed by the Executive Council.

Section 2. Composition and Terms of Office. The Executive Council shall be composed of the President, the Vice President, the Secretary-Treasurer, the Associate Secretary-Treasurer, the Chairpersons and the Associate Chairpersons of the Membership and Chapter Relations Committee, the Conference Committee, the Standards Committee, the Education Committee and the Communications Committee, the Inclusion and Equity Committee, the Past President and three Councillors-at-Large.

No person shall hold more than one position on the Executive Council. An incumbent Executive Councillor who is, pursuant to the provisions of Section 6 of this Article, elected or appointed to another position on the Executive Council shall, upon election or appointment thereto, resign their former position thereon, which position shall then be filled in the manner provided in Section 6 of this Article.

The Vice President shall have a term of office of one year, at the end of which they shall become President. The President shall have a term of office of one year, at the end of which they shall become Past President. The Past President serves as Chairperson of the Committee on Nominations and shall have a term of office of one year.

The Associate Secretary-Treasurer shall have a term of office of one year, at the end of which they shall become Secretary-Treasurer. The Secretary-Treasurer shall have a term of office of one year.

The Associate Chairperson of the Membership and Chapter Relations Committee, Conference Committee, Standards Committee, Education Committee, Communications Committee, and Inclusion and Equity Committee shall have a term of office of one year, at the end of which they shall become Chairperson of the particular Committee of which they were Associate Chairperson. The Chairperson for each of these five committees shall have a term of office of one year.

Councillors-at-large shall have terms of office of three years. Their terms of office shall be staggered so that only one Councillor-at-Large shall be elected each year.

Each person elected to the Executive Council shall take office at the Annual Conference immediately following the election, but in any case no later than 90 days following the conclusion of voting in the annual election, and shall hold office until the expiration of their term of office, or until their death, or until they shall resign, or until they shall have been removed, whichever first occurs.

Section 3. Nominations and Elections. The Association will hold an annual election, with voting open to all members in good standing, for the purpose of filling positions on the Executive Council whose terms will expire that year. All candidates for Executive Council positions must be paid-up members of AAPOR. Student members are not eligible to hold Executive Council positions. No person can be made a candidate without their prior consent. No person can be made a candidate for more than one office. Members of the Committee on Nominations are not eligible for nomination by said committee.

The Committee on Nominations will consist of a minimum of five members appointed by the Past President, who shall chair the committee. The committee composition shall reflect the breadth and diversity of AAPOR membership.

Candidates for Vice-President/President-Elect and Associate Conference Chairperson will be chosen to create a balance between non-commercial (e.g., government, university, and/or non-profit) and commercial organizations. If either of these positions has been filled by members from the commercial sector for two years in a row, the following year’s nominees must come from the non-commercial sector. If either of these positions has been filled by members from the non-commercial sector for two years in a row, the following year’s nominees must come from the commercial sector. No restrictions of this nature apply to candidates for other offices.

The Past President, acting as Chairperson of the Committee on Nominations and on its behalf, shall submit to the members entitled to vote ­ the names and short biographies of two candidates nominated for each Executive Council position to be filled by election. All such nominations shall have been previously approved by the Executive Council. In compiling the list of candidates, both the Committee on Nominations and Executive Council shall make reasonable efforts to ensure that the list reflects the diversity of AAPOR membership in areas such as gender, race, ethnicity, career seniority, organization, and sector (academic, government, commercial and other). The submission of names of candidates to the members entitled to vote shall be not more than ninety (90) nor less than sixty (60) days before the annual meeting of the members and shall be in the manner provided for notice of meetings in Article III, Section 4 of these bylaws. The Past President may, at their option, prior to the preparation of the nominations, poll the members for suggested nominations.

Upon receipt of the names of the candidates submitted by the Past President, any group of at least twenty-five (25) members entitled to vote may nominate another candidate or candidates by so notifying in writing the Past President within fourteen (14) days after the delivery or mailing of such names by the Past President. Thereafter, and subject to the approval of the Executive Council, which has final responsibility for determining candidates to be nominated for positions on the Executive Council, the Past President shall submit the list of candidates as it may be so amended, along with short biographies of any newly added candidates, to the members no less than thirty (30) days before the annual meeting of the members in the manner hereinbefore provided in Article III, Section 4. Executive Council members shall be elected by a plurality of the votes cast by the members. In the event of a tied election, the Executive Council would vote to break the tie. If that vote is also tied, the Executive Committee would vote to break the tie.

Section 4. Resignation. Any Executive Councillor may resign at any time by submitting written notice to the President or the Secretary-Treasurer. Such resignation shall take effect at the time specified therein but in no event prior to being submitted and, unless otherwise specified therein, acceptance of such resignation shall not be necessary in order for it to be effective.

Section 5. Removal. Any Executive Councillor may be removed, either with or without cause, by the vote, at any annual or special meeting of the members, of at least two-thirds (2/3rds) of the members present in person or by proxy entitled to vote thereat, after such removal was first proposed by the Executive Council. The proposal to remove a Councilor may be initiated by the Executive Council. Additionally, if at least fifty (50) members entitled to vote at any annual or special meeting of the members propose to the Executive Council the removal of any member of the Executive Council, their removal shall be proposed to the members at the next annual or special meeting for which notice has not yet been sent.

Section 6. Vacancies on the Executive Council. A vacancy in the office of President shall be filled in the manner set forth in Article V, Section 4. A vacancy in the office of Vice-President shall remain unfilled until the next regular election and until the person so elected takes office. If the office of Past President is vacated for any reason, the office will remain vacant until the next Council election. However, the Executive Council will appoint a Chairperson of the Committee of Nominations, to fulfill those responsibilities of the Past President. Such an appointment shall be filled in the same manner as Executive Council vacancies, as described below. Any other vacancy on the Executive Council caused by death, resignation, disqualification, removal, or any other cause, may be filled by a vote of the majority of the remaining Executive Councillors even if less than a quorum. Each Executive Councillor so chosen must be a paid-up member of AAPOR meeting the qualifications of Article IV, Section 3. They shall hold such office until the expiration of their predecessor’s term of office.

Section 7. Place of Meetings, Offices, and Records. Except as otherwise provided by law, the Executive Council may hold its meetings, have one or more offices, and keep the books and records of AAPOR, at such place or places within or without the State of Delaware as the Executive Council may from time to time determine.

Section 8. Regular Meetings. The Executive Council shall meet during and at the same place as the Annual Conference of the members. The Executive Council will provide, by resolution, the time and place for holding additional regular meetings. The Executive Council shall meet at least three times per year.

Section 9. Special Meetings. Special meetings of the Executive Council shall be held whenever called by the President, Vice President or Secretary-Treasurer. Notice of each such meeting shall be sent to each Executive Councillor, addressed to them at their usual place of residence or usual place of business at least three (3) calendar days before the day on which the meeting is to be held, or shall be sent to said Executive Councillor by electronic communication, telephone or in-person at least one (1) day before the day on which the meeting is to be held. Each such notice shall state the time and place of the meeting but need not state the purposes thereof, except as otherwise herein expressly provided. Any Executive Councillor attending the meeting may not protest the outcome of any vote the Executive Councillors cast at such meeting regardless of whether properly notified of the meeting by the procedures described above.

Section 10. Quorum and Manner of Acting. Except as otherwise provided by statute, one half (1/2) of the total number of Executive Councillors shall be required to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting, and the act of a majority of the Executive Councillors present at any meeting at which a quorum shall be present shall be the act of the Executive Council. In the absence of a quorum, a majority of Councillors attending may cancel the meeting. Executive Council meetings shall be conducted according to Robert’s Rules of Order.

Section 11. Remuneration. Executive Councillors shall not receive any salary for their services as such, but by resolution of the Executive Council expenses of attendance, if any, may be allowed for attendance at each regular and special meeting of the Executive Council. This section shall not preclude any Executive Councillor from serving AAPOR in any other capacity for which they receive remuneration.

Section 12. Special Procedures.

(a) Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Executive Council may be taken via conference telephone call or electronic communication if the occurrence of such actions are filed with the minutes or proceedings of the Executive Council.

(b) Members of the Executive Council may participate in a meeting of the Executive Council by means of conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and participation in such a meeting shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.

Article V Officers

Section 1. Officers. The officers of AAPOR shall be a President, a Vice President, a Past President, a Secretary-Treasurer, and an Associate Secretary-Treasurer, who shall constitute the Executive Committee of the AAPOR Executive Council.  The Executive Committee shall have the authority to act on behalf of AAPOR during the interval between Executive council meetings on time-sensitive matters, provided that a report of actions taken is made to the Executive Council within 10 days of any action. All actions taken by the Executive Committee are subject to change by a vote of the Executive Council.

Section 2. Other Officers and Agents.  AAPOR may have such other officers and agents as may be deemed necessary by the Executive Council. Such other officers and agents shall be appointed in such manner, have such duties and hold their offices for such terms as may be determined by the Executive Council.

Section 3. The President. The President shall be the chief executive officer of AAPOR and shall be responsible for fulfilling the purposes of AAPOR. They shall serve as Chairperson of the Executive Council and as the official representative of AAPOR in its relations with other organizations and the public. The President shall serve as an ex officio member of all committees.

Section 4. The Vice President. Except where by law the signature of the President is required, the Vice President shall possess the same power as the President to sign all certificates, contracts, obligations and other instruments on behalf of AAPOR. In the event of the temporary absence or disability of the President, the Vice President shall perform all duties of the President, and when so acting, shall have all the powers of, and be subject to all the restrictions upon, the President. In the event of the removal, resignation, death, or the disqualification of the President, the Vice President shall assume the Office of President for the balance of the current term; at the expiration of such term they shall continue in the office of President as provided in Article IV, Section 2.

Section 5. The Past President. The Past President shall serve as Chairperson of the Committee on Nominations. In the event of the absence or disability of the President and the Vice President, the Past President shall serve as the official representative of AAPOR in its relations with other organizations and the public.

Section 6. The Secretary-Treasurer. The Secretary-Treasurer shall oversee the preparation and distribution of minutes of all the proceedings of the meetings of the Members and of the Executive Council to all Council members; they shall also be responsible for communicating with the membership. The Secretary-Treasurer shall keep and disburse the moneys of AAPOR, as limited by these bylaws and as directed by the Executive Council, shall keep correct books of account, shall render to the President and to the Executive Council at the regular meetings thereof, or whenever requested by them, reports of financial transactions by him or her and of the financial condition of AAPOR. The Secretary-Treasurer shall serve as chair of the Finance Committee. The Secretary-Treasurer shall also perform such other duties as shall be assigned to that office by the President or the Executive Council and in general shall perform all duties incident to the office of Secretary.

Section 7. The Associate Secretary-Treasurer. The Associate Secretary-Treasurer shall perform any portion of the duties of the Secretary-Treasurer, as stated in Section 6, at the request of the Secretary-Treasurer or the Executive Council. They shall serve as associate chair of the Finance Committee. They shall act in place of the Secretary-Treasurer in the event of the absence or disability of the latter.

Article VI The Standing Committees

Section 1. The Standing Committees. There shall be eight (8) standing committees: Nominations, Membership and Chapter Relations, Conference, Standards, Communications, Education, Inclusion and Equity, and Finance.

Section 2. The Executive Council shall determine the charge, composition, terms, role of non-members of AAPOR, succession planning, concurrent committee membership, concurrent leadership roles (with the exception of the elected standing committee chairs) , reappointment and/or such other policy considerations that may be required to effectively govern AAPOR. Policies and procedures concerning standing committees, ad hoc committees, task forces or other groups appointed to accomplish the work of the association adopted by the Executive Council, shall be available on the AAPOR website.

(a) The Committee on Nominations shall prepare the lists of nominations for the election of Executive Councillors for submission by its Chairperson, as set out in Section 3 of Article IV of these bylaws.

(b) The Committee on Membership and Chapter Relations shall have the responsibility of recruiting members and regularly reporting to Council information on membership trends, composition, and retention; it shall be responsible for carrying out activities designed to further membership retention and for other membership matters which may arise. It shall also be responsible for the liaison with local chapters.

(c) The Conference Committee shall be responsible for planning and organizing the annual conference or conferences of the Members of AAPOR under the direction of the Executive Council.

(d) The Committee on Standards, shall act to improve professional standards in the field of public opinion and survey research and shall be responsible for addressing complaints brought forth by the Members of AAPOR regarding violations of the Code or the Conduct Policy.

(e) The Committee on Communications shall be responsible for oversight of AAPOR communications strategy. This committee shall establish and maintain relations between AAPOR and the public and shall assist the President and the Executive Council in the dissemination of information relating to public opinion and survey research, and the policies and activities of AAPOR. The Committee shall be responsible for oversight of publications and online content, excluding journals, whether peer-reviewed or not.

(f) The Education Committee shall have the responsibility for advising the Executive Council on educational and professional development activities, as well as overseeing and causing the implementation of such activities. The Committee will work closely with the Conference Committee.

(g) Except for the Committee on Nominations, each standing committee shall have a Chairperson and an Associate Chairperson, the Associate Chairperson carrying out the duties of the Chairperson during their temporary absence or disability. The Chairperson of the Committee on Nominations is the Past President and in the event of their absence, disability, death, removal, or resignation the duties of such Chairperson shall be performed by the person selected by the Executive Council pursuant to Article IV, Section 6 of these bylaws.

(h) The Finance Committee shall be responsible for oversight of AAPOR investment strategies and policies and revenue development for the Association.

(i) The Inclusion and Equity Committee shall be responsible for the oversight of AAPOR’s inclusion and equity strategies. This committee shall establish, implement, and maintain programs that promote the inclusion of diverse AAPOR members and ensure that member of marginalized groups receive equitable opportunities, recognition, and support within the organization.

Section 3. Review and Approval of Committee Action. The actions of the eight (8) standing committees and all ad hoc committees, subcommittees, task forces or other groups appointed to accomplish the work of the association shall be subject to the review and approval of the Executive Council.

Section 4. Manner of Acting. Subject to the directions of the Executive Council, the Chairperson of each standing committee may fix its rules of procedure, fix the time and place, whether within or without the State of Delaware, of its meetings and specify what notice thereof, if any, shall be given.

Section 5. Representation of the Diversity of AAPOR Membership on Committees. Inasmuch as the success of AAPOR in achieving its goals is deemed to be most achievable through active involvement of its many and diverse members, AAPOR will endeavor to represent the breadth and diversity of its membership in appointments to its Committees. Diversity in this context includes, but is not limited to, diversity in employment, age, sexual preference, religion, chapter vs. non-chapter affiliation, geographical region, race, ethnicity and gender identity, or expression.

Section 6. Standing and Ad Hoc Committees Ad Hoc committees include but are not limited to task forces and working groups. Except as otherwise provided in these bylaws, the Executive Council shall create and may discharge all standing and ad hoc committees, task forces or other groups appointed to accomplish the work of AAPOR. Except as otherwise provided in these bylaws, the Council shall appoint the chairs of all committees and approve the appointments of committee members. Such committees, however, are not empowered to exercise any of the powers or authority of the Executive Council. The Chairperson of each such committee may fix its rules of procedure, determine its action and fix the time and place, whether within or without the State of Delaware, of its meetings and specify what notice thereof, if any, shall be given, unless the Executive Council shall otherwise provide. Each committee shall regularly report to a designated member of the Executive Council. The Executive Council may change the members of any such committee at any time, fill vacancies therein or discharge any such committee with or without cause at any time.

Article VII Local Chapters

Section 1.  Upon application to and approval of the Executive Council, Members of AAPOR may organize into local chapters with the aim of furthering the general purposes of AAPOR and shall be given recognition by AAPOR. There cannot be more than one local chapter per area (as determined by Executive Council). The Executive Council may at any time, in its sole discretion, revoke such recognition.

Section 2.  All chapters will have bylaws and other organizational documents that are reasonably consistent with the AAPOR’s goals and objectives as determined by Executive Council. AAPOR shall grant to Chapters a conditional, revocable, non-exclusive license to use the name “AAPOR”. Chapters are recognized by AAPOR and acknowledged to be separate organizations.  As such, AAPOR bears no liability for actions of Local Chapters or their obligations or liabilities and each Local Chapter shall waive, release and indemnify and hold AAPOR harmless from and against any and all loss, claim or liability that might arise in connection with its existence and activities. To ensure clarity of understanding and affirmative agreement, each Chapter will sign an agreement acknowledging acceptance of this Article and other appropriate matters governing the relationship between AAPOR and such Chapter.

Section 3. Officers in officially recognized local Chapters must be paid-up members of AAPOR. Local Chapter members need not be members of AAPOR.

Section 4.  All AAPOR Chapter members must adopt the AAPOR Conduct Policy and the AAPOR Code of Professional Ethics and Practices as a condition of Chapter membership.

Section 5.  Executive Council liaison to Local Chapters will be the Chair of the Membership and Chapter Relations Committee.

Section 6. Local Chapters shall not, except with the express approval of the Executive Council, make any public statement or enter into any contracts on behalf of AAPOR or in any manner represent, obligate or legally bind AAPOR. Local Chapters shall not take any action contrary to the policies and purposes of AAPOR.

Article VIII Conferences and Other Events

Section 1. Annual Conference. The Executive Council shall in May, or at such other time as it may from time to time determine, in each year convene an Annual Conference of the Members of AAPOR. Each Annual Conference shall be held at such place within or without the State of Delaware as shall be fixed by the Executive Council.

Section 2. Other Events. Other events may be conducted by AAPOR with the prior approval of Executive Council. The events must be consistent with the objectives of AAPOR and not conflict with the Annual Conference or the Advisory Business Meeting.

Article IX The Code of Professional Ethics and Practices and the Conduct Policy

The goals of AAPOR are to support sound and ethical practices in the conduct of public opinion and survey research and in the use of such research for policy and decision-making in the public and private sectors, as well as to improve public understanding of public opinion and survey research methods and the proper use of survey research results. Additionally, AAPOR is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for everyone attending or associated with our events and activities and to providing an environment that is free from harassment and discrimination.

To that end, AAPOR has a written the Code of Professional Ethics and Practices (“The Code”) and the Conduct Policy. Members must confirm their agreement with these annually, at the time of membership renewal, on the Code.

As the Code and Conduct Policy are living documents, the Standards committee will review them at least every five years to keep them current with changing environmental circumstances. Suggested Code or Conduct Policy revisions will be presented by the Standards Committee to Council. Revisions as then agreed to by Council, along with the rationale for them, will be presented to the membership for its approval by way of a ballot. Approval will require a majority of those voting and at least 25% of eligible voters must vote.

Article X Dues

The Executive Council shall from time to time determine annual dues to be paid by Members and the manner and time of assessment and collection thereof provided, however, the dues to be paid by Student Members shall not be more than one half (1/2) the dues to be paid by Regular Members.

Article XI Financial Transactions

Section 1. Orders for the Payment of Money and Contracts. Except as aforesaid or as specifically authorized by the Executive Council, all checks, drafts or bills of exchange or other orders for the payment of money issued in the name of AAPOR shall be signed on behalf of AAPOR by either the President, the Vice President or the Secretary-Treasurer. Except as aforesaid or as specifically authorized by the Executive Council, no officer, agent or employee shall have any power or authority to bind AAPOR by any contract or engagement or to pledge its credit or to render it liable pecuniarily for any purpose or for any amount.

Section 2. Loans. No loan or advance shall be contracted on behalf of AAPOR, and no negotiable instrument shall be issued in its name, unless authorized by the Executive Council. Loans and advances so authorized by the Executive Council may be effected at any time for AAPOR from any bank, trust company or other institution, or from any firm, corporation or individual. All bonds, notes and other obligations or evidences of indebtedness of AAPOR issued for such loans and advances shall be made, executed and delivered by two persons, one of whom shall be the President or the Vice President and the other of whom shall be the Secretary-Treasurer. When so authorized by the Executive Council, any and all stocks, securities and other personal property held or owned by AAPOR may be pledged, hypothecated and transferred as security for the payment of any and all loans, advances, indebtedness and liabilities of AAPOR and of the interest thereon, and to that end necessary endorsements, assignments, and delivery may be made by the President or the Vice President.

Section 3. Deposits. All funds of AAPOR not otherwise employed shall be deposited in a timely manner to the credit of AAPOR in such banks, trust companies or other depositaries as the Executive Council may select. The Executive Council may make such special rules and regulations with respect to such bank accounts, not inconsistent with the provisions of these bylaws, as it may deem expedient. For the purpose of deposit and for the purpose of collection for the account of AAPOR, checks, drafts and other orders for the payment of money which are payable to the order of AAPOR shall be endorsed, assigned and delivered by the President, the Vice President, the Secretary-Treasurer, the Associate Secretary-Treasurer, or by someone or agent specifically authorized by the Executive Council.

Article XII Fiscal Year & Reporting

Section 1.  The fiscal year of AAPOR shall be the twelve-month period from January 1 through December 31 unless otherwise determined by the Executive Council.

Section 2.  All financial reporting should be consistent with AAPOR’s fiscal year unless otherwise determined by the Executive Council.

Article XIII Waiver of Notices

Whenever any notice whatsoever is required to he given by these bylaws or by the Certificate of Incorporation or by the laws of the State of Delaware, a waiver thereof in writing, signed by the person or persons entitled to said notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent thereto.

Article XIV Amendments

These bylaws may be amended by a vote of a majority of 25% or more of the Members in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware.

Executive Council will review the bylaws at least every five years to determine the need for amendments.

Diversity

Report to AAPOR Executive Council from Working Group on Long Term Diversity

INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
As a multidisciplinary organization, AAPOR has held a long commitment to diversity. This commitment to diversity is stated in Article VI, Section 5 of AAPOR’s Bylaws, in which the “breadth and diversity of its membership” are to be reflected in the appointments to AAPOR’s committees; in the AAPOR 2025 Strategic Vision, in which AAPOR commits to promote our core values across. its membership regardless of employment, geographic, and social and demographic characteristics (including as specified in the Statement on Diversity and Inclusion their sex, gender, gender identity, age, race, race, religion, ethnic background, nationality, sexual orientation, or disability status); and in the 2013-2014 Strategic Plan in which diversity is identified as an important driver for the future direction of the organization. AAPOR’s commitment to diversity is also demonstrated by the requirement that key leadership positions such as President, Conference Chair and Councilor-at-large are rotated between individuals from for-profit and nonprofit organizations. In early 2016, AAPOR reaffirmed and deepened its commitment by adopting its first formal diversity statement.

Across these documents, AAPOR recognizes that increasing and valuing diversity at all levels of the organization are necessary to maintain the “big tent” nature of the organization. By having a diverse membership and leadership, AAPOR can:

  • Identify and promote new ideas to benefit members and advance the profession;
  • Strengthen and grow the membership base;
  • Serve the wide range of researchers who use the tools that AAPOR is uniquely positioned to provide (such as Standard Definitions for Response Rates);
  • Quickly respond to issues that may arise within the research industry; and
  • More effectively represent the many constituencies served by AAPOR.

Despite a written commitment to diversity, recent analyses of characteristics of individuals in existing leadership roles, committee compositions, and the membership at large have raised concerns that AAPOR has fallen short of implementing its commitment to diversity.  For example, the 2016 Presidential Address identified that the share of AAPOR Presidents who are women is far lower than the share of members who are women, and a report to Executive Council in 2015 from the Membership and Chapters Relation Committee showed that many of the AAPOR Committees were unrepresentative in terms of committee member characteristics compared to membership characteristics.  In June 2016, AAPOR Executive Council created a working group to develop a comprehensive plan for Council that would lay out AAPOR’s next steps to enhance diversity in the long term for the organization and more broadly for our industry.

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AAPOR Conduct Policy

I. Preamble

As a professional association, AAPOR fully supports and values all participants at AAPOR-sponsored, online and in-person events and activities such as conferences, meetings, and listserv (collectively and as defined further below, “AAPOR Events”). AAPOR Events help establish professional networks and, in the spirit of free inquiry and expression, encourage collegial interactions that include discussions, differing viewpoints, and scientific debates, all of which are important and necessary for advancing the science and practice of public opinion research. We pride ourselves on our professionalism and our respect for others.

AAPOR Events bring together people from around the world, and from many different cultures. As such, we need to be sensitive to cultural contexts that vary not only among regions of the USA, but also among the various parts of the world. We must also be sensitive to legacies that have produced discriminatory and prejudicial beliefs and practices. AAPOR firmly believes the success of any organization requires a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce and a culture that embraces and encourages different perspectives. We recognize the inherent value in cultivating a wide range of experiences and it is our commitment to embrace every person’s uniqueness and to provide a professional work environment where everyone is welcome and treated with dignity and respect.

For these and other reasons, AAPOR is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment for everyone attending or associated with AAPOR Events. These individuals include all attendees whether they are AAPOR members or non-members, as well as staff, vendors, exhibitors, contractors, and venue staff (collectively, the “Participants”). We are committed to providing an environment that is free from harassment and discrimination, whether sexual or otherwise, based on gender, age, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, language, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, health, socioeconomic status, marital status, domestic status, political affiliation, or parental status. Harassment and discrimination undermine the principles of equality and respect and are serious forms of professional misconduct. Participants at AAPOR Events who are found to violate this policy will be subject to discipline.

Specifically, and as described in more detail below, the Policy outlines expectations, reporting, and procedures for every Participant at an AAPOR Event. For purposes of this Policy, the phrase “AAPOR Event” also includes the following:

  • In-person gatherings such as conferences, meetings, short courses or other AAPOR-sponsored events and activities;
  • Online, “virtual” events such as webinars or virtual conferences;
  • Emails, texts, telephone calls and any other online or offline communication related to AAPOR business; and
  • Online forums such as AAPORnet.

II. Expected Conduct

All Participants are expected to act in a professional manner and treat others with respect while conducting or engaging in AAPOR Events.

All Participants are expected to abide by this Policy in all meeting venues, including ancillary events as well as official and unofficial social gatherings. At a minimum, the Participants are required to:

  • Follow the norms of professional respect that are necessary to promote the conditions for free inquiry and expression.
  • Be proactive in helping to mitigate or avoid any harm, be it physical or psychological, to any event or activity participant that they personally witness.
  • Alert law enforcement or venue security personnel or appropriate authorities if they see a situation in which someone might be in imminent physical danger.

III. Unacceptable Conduct

What is prohibited? Harassment of others will not be tolerated. AAPOR has zero tolerance for any such behaviors.

Definitions of Harassment: More generally, harassment consists of a myriad of activities or conduct, including, without limitation, single or multiple persistent or pervasive acts that are demeaning, abusive, offensive, or create a hostile professional environment. Harassment may include sexual solicitation, physical advances, or verbal or nonverbal conduct that is sexual in nature; it may also include threatening, intimidating, or hostile acts; circulation of written or graphic material that denigrates or shows hostility toward an individual or group; epithets, slurs, or negative stereotyping based on group identity. Such unprofessional behavior is not limited to face-to-face interactions. As such, it also includes any such unprofessional behavior via emails, texts, telephone calls and any other online or offline communication.

Sexual harassment refers to unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Behavior and language that are welcome or acceptable to one person or culture may be unwelcome and offensive to another. Personal or cultural acceptance is not a justification for any unwelcome form of behavior. The following are examples of behavior that, when unwelcome, constitute sexual harassment:

  • Sexual flirtations, advances, or propositions;
  • Verbal comments or physical actions of a sexual nature, including sexually degrading words used to describe an individual;
  • Making unwelcome comments about someone’s physical appearance;
  • A display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures;
  • Sexually explicit jokes;
  • Unwanted touching; and
  • Persistent and unwelcome solicitation of emotional or physical intimacy, especially when accompanied by real or implied threat of professional or other type of harm.

Other Harassment. Harassment on the basis of any other protected characteristic is also prohibited. This conduct includes, but is not limited to, prejudicial actions or comments related to actual or perceived gender, gender identity, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, ability, socioeconomic status, age, or religion that coerce others, foment broad hostility, or otherwise undermine professional equity or the principles of free inquiry and expression.

Verbally or physically abusive behavior by a Participant toward others while conducting or engaging in AAPOR Events will not be tolerated. Examples of such behavior include, but are not limited to:

  • Bullying;
  • Knowingly communicating false information about someone else;
  • Intimidating, harassing, abusive, derogatory or demeaning speech or actions;
  • Directing abusive profanity toward others;
  • Engaging in behaviors that have the effect of humiliating others;
  • Mobbing (i.e., group bullying an individual);
  • Damaging property;
  • Deliberately intimidating, stalking or following;
  • Harassing photography or recording;
  • Sustained disruption of talks or other events;
  • Physical assault;
  • Real or implied threat of physical harm; and
  • Engaging in other unprofessional or inappropriate behavior.

Anti-Competitive Behaviors: Antitrust laws are designed to prevent any situation from which collusion, price-fixing or other anti-competitive activity can be reasonably inferred.  While it is the case that many of our members are affiliated with academic or other non-profit enterprises, a large number are in fact principals, members, employees or contractors of for-profit competitors. Accordingly, discussions of price-setting, attempts to limit competition, or other unreasonable restraints on trade are strictly prohibited.

While not fully comprehensive, the following list sets forth some basic parameters of what is strictly prohibited at AAPOR Events. Agreements among competitors relating to any of these subjects are per se violations of the antitrust laws.

  • Any discussions, collaborations, or attempts by Participants regarding fixing, establishing, maintaining, or discounting prices or terms or conditions of sale, for services or products.
  • Any collaborations or attempts by Participants to coordinate restrictions for employment opportunities in the industry or to set salaries, wages or other compensation.
  • Any discussions of territorial limitations of any kind.

General Compliance with Applicable Laws. All Participants are expected to comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations (collectively, the “Laws”). Any violation by a Participant of the Laws relating to or arising out of its conduct in connection with an AAPOR Event shall constitute a violation of this Policy.

IV. Procedures for Addressing Misconduct

A. Notice

If you believe that you are or have been subjected to harassment and/or you have identified some other violation of this Policy, please speak up. Any such reporting will be reviewed by the appropriate individuals at AAPOR in confidence and in a non-prejudicial manner. Only if you feel it is appropriate, and in your judgment if you can do so without harm to yourself or others, you can of course communicate, in an effective form, to the person whom you believe is acting inappropriately that their behavior is unwelcome and/or potentially in violation of this Policy. Explicitly identifying inappropriate behavior communicates: 1) that one perceives the act as crossing a professional line, and 2) one does not wish it to continue.

If you witness potential harm, such as physical contact or hostile verbal behavior, be proactive in helping to mitigate or avoid any escalations in the activity or other negative consequences. Avoid physical or verbal altercations of any kind. If it poses no immediate safety risk to you, alert law enforcement or venue security personnel.

If you are or have been subjected to harassment and are not comfortable addressing it directly with the individual, if the behavior does not stop, or if you remain concerned about the incident, concerns should be reported in the manner stated below.

More generally, if you experience harassment that results in physical harm, makes you feel physically unsafe, or otherwise requires an immediate response, you should alert law enforcement or venue security personnel.

B. Formal Reporting

  1. Submit a report via the online form which goes directly to an Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee consisting of AAPOR’s President, Membership & Chapter Relations Chair, Senior Councilor-at-Large, Standards Chair, and Inclusion and Equity Committee Chair, and Executive Director (non-voting member). Should any member of the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee be involved in a complaint—as the complainant, the accused, or a witness—and therefore needs to be recused due to this conflict of interest, the reporting individual has the option to select which committee members receive the violation report.  Should any member be recused from the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee, the person(s) will be replaced by another person in similar office (e.g., Past President, Associate MCR Chair). This Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee will report through the Standards Committee. The Standards Committee chair, or a person in a similar office, will serve as the chair of the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee.
  2. Instructions are provided on what to report: (i) a statement describing the alleged action or violation, (ii) the date or dates when the alleged violation occurred, (iii) the AAPOR event/meeting/connection, (iv) the name(s) of the individual(s) alleged to be in violation, (v) any other witnesses to the event(s), and (vi) your first and last name (as the complainant) along with contact information, including telephone number, postal address, and e-mail address.
  3. Within two (2) business days (or with one business day during in-person events, such as in the case of a conference), the Executive Director will respond to complainant on behalf of the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee with a message saying that the incident/issue will be investigated within thirty (30) days. The complainant will be told to reach out directly to the Executive Director and/or President if (1) the person wants to discuss the matter more quickly or (2) if they haven’t heard back within the response times as set forth above.

C. Review Process

  1. The role of the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee is to review the written report of violation. The Committee reaches out to the person whose conduct is in question in the complaint and that person can provide their own written account of the incident(s). In its sole discretion, the Committee may reach out to the complainant and/or any other named witnesses as needed. The Committee may secure the service of an independent professional Ombudsperson as deemed appropriate and necessary in any given complaint.
  2. The Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee will decide about possible action within 30 days of the complainant report.

D. Decision-Making by AAPOR

AAPOR reserves the right to have sole discretion over decision-making regarding standards of conduct in its organizational activities and at AAPOR Events and to determine any associated penalties. By agreeing to the terms of registration for a specific AAPOR Event, all Participants are subject to this Policy. AAPOR will have no liability in connection with the stated penalties below; and there will be no refund or compensation of any kind associated therewith.

After a review by the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee and based on the merits of the complaint and any records of prior complaints, the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee will seek a consensus on the appropriately judged outcome. Majority opinion will rule if consensus is not achieved. The outcomes include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Declination to take action;
  • Temporary or permanent removal from AAPOR listserv;
  • Temporary or permanent removal from AAPOR leadership, committee, or volunteer role;
  • Revocation of registration for upcoming AAPOR-sponsored event(s), with refunding of registration fees to be determined by the event’s cancellation policy;
  • Immediate expulsion from an AAPOR-sponsored event(s) with no refund for any fees paid;
  • Temporary or permanent ban from participation in AAPOR-sponsored event(s); and
  • Temporary or permanent revocation of AAPOR membership with no refund for any fees paid.

Referral to Law Enforcement: AAPOR Executive Director, officers, and members of the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee will review federal offense-reporting standards (e.g., Clery Act) tied to violent threats, assault, and other related acts. In cases where the behavior could be unlawful, AAPOR will immediately refer the incident to those parties that may have a right to bring a claim, including in the case of criminal claims, referrals to the appropriate law enforcement or prosecution authorities.

E. Referral to Executive Council

The Standards Chair will report on the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee decisions, but not the facts or details thereof, at AAPOR’s next occurring Executive Council Meeting. The decisions will be announced (decision information only) not subject to vote but entered into the minutes by acclamation. The “facts” of the complaints will be archived with AAPOR’s Executive Office and in its historical archives with other confidential Standards files, and not made a part of the public minutes. It will be the responsibility of AAPOR event organizers and leadership to review participant lists to identify individuals who are under temporary or permanent restrictions.

All decision information delivered to the Executive Council will be kept confidential. The complaint form and all related materials prepared for the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee, including but not limited to information gathered through interviews with the complainant, the accused, and witnesses, and the outcome of the investigation, will be kept confidential. All Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee discussions related to the specifics of the complaint will be treated as privileged communication with no information recorded that would identify the incident or any individuals involved in the incident.

F. Reinstatement and Appeals

A person subject to a temporary ban will be automatically reinstated when the ban expires, assuming they meet other criteria for membership and participation, including renewed agreement to the AAPOR Code of Conduct and payment of dues or registration fees.

All decisions rendered by the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee are subject to appeal by either the complainant or the person whose behavior was the basis of the complaint.  The appeal must be submitted in writing to the AAPOR Executive Council stating the justification for the appeal. The appeal must also be submitted within six (6) months of the time the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee rendered its decision. The enforcement of the decisions and rulings of the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee shall stay in effect during the pendency of any appeal, subject to the sole discretion and unanimous consent of the members constituting the Ad-Hoc Committee. The appeal will be reviewed by an Appeals Committee consisting of the AAPOR Vice President, Past President, Associate Standards Chair, Associate Membership & Chapter Relations Chair, Associate Inclusion & Equity Committee Chair, and Executive Director (non-voting member). Should any member of the Appeals Committee be involved in the previously reviewed complaint, or be involved in the complaint, as the complainant, the accused, or a witness, the person(s) will be replaced by another person in a similar office. This Appeals Committee will report through the Standards Committee; the Standards Associate Chair, or person in a similar office, will serve as the chair of the Appeals Committee.

If a majority of the Appeals Committee agree that there is justification for an appeal, then they may review written reports of the violation. This Appeals Committee may reach out to the complainant and/or any other named witnesses as needed to gather additional information. The Appeals Committee may secure the service of an independent professional Ombudsperson as deemed appropriate and necessary in any given complaint. If the Ad-Hoc Conduct Committee used an Ombudsperson in arriving at its original decision, a different Ombudsperson will be selected for the appeals process to ensure fairness and transparency.

The Appeals Committee will render a decision on the appeal within forty-five (45) days. shall be communicated to the accused and the complainant by the Chair of the Appeals Committee.

Additional Resources
https://www.rainn.org/after-sexual-assault
https://victimsofcrime.org/help-for-crime-victims/national-hotlines-and-helpful-links