JANUARY 2008

CHAPTER How To
S TA R T E R G U I D E Establish
And Operate
A Successful
MSA Chapter

M U S L I M S T U D E N T S A S S O C I AT I O N O F T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S & C A N A D A
 CONTENTS

Section I.
Get Organized: 04

Section II.
Assigning Roles: 07

Section III.
Get Started: 07

Section IV.
Procedures Guidelines: 09

Section V.
Events, Projects
& Other Useful Ideas: 11

Appendix A
Resources: 12

Appendix B:
Sample Constitution: 12

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IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, MOST GRACIOUS, MOST MERCIFUL.

What is a Muslim Students Association?

A Muslim Students Association (MSA) is an organization devoted to

strengthening the Muslim community through service and activism,

educating both Muslims and people of other faiths about the religion of

Islam, and facilitating a better environment for students on campus.

The establisher of an MSA should make the intention to establish

an organization for the sake of Allah. Begin your journey by saying

“Bismillahi ‘Rahman ar Raheem,” (In the Name of God) and pray

that your MSA is successful, strong, and beneficial to all members

and students alike.

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 S T A R T E R G U I D E How To Establish And Operate A Successful MSA Chapter

Section I. Get Organized organization that can be used in planning, decision-making, and
evaluation. In a brainstorming session, some good questions to
ask include the following:
So you want to start an MSA chapter in your area but you’re • What do we want to accomplish?
not sure how? Here are some basic start-up advice from MSA • What services will we provide?
National, serving and supporting Muslim students like you • Who are our stakeholders?
across the US & Canada since 1963. Ex. Muslim students, students of other faiths,, professors,
the university administration, the campus community,
1. Get Information: Visit the Student Union/Office of Student MSA National.
Government at your college/university/high school and ask
about starting a club. The University will outline the club At the most basic level, the MSA should create a community
requirements and policies such as the minimum number of of Muslims on campus. One MSA’s mission statement put it
members required, election policies, etc. quite well:
The MSA stands for Islam as a complete way of life. By this,
2. Get Members: This can be approached in several different ways: we will develop a dynamic, united and welcome community
• Word of mouth - tell your friends to pass it along. on campus, raise awareness of Islam, and help people become
• Start an email list sign-up sheet of those interested. better Muslims.
• Advertise on campus through flyers, etc.
• Set up a table or booth at your student union and have The MSA is based on the Islamic ideals of united effort and
interested people sign up to attend. brother/sisterhood. The MSA is a proactive organization based
• Go to club meetings, like the Black Student Association, on the Islamic concepts of excellence. This unity is based on
Pakistani Student Association or Arab Student Association, common objectives and transcends petty differences in order to
that may have Muslim members and tell them about have a community that every Muslim feels a part of.
the MSA.
SECTION I: GET ORGANIZED

Some schools provide a list of contact information for all The Mission Statement of MSA National is:
the current students. Try to get a copy and look through it to The Muslim Students Association of the U.S.
find members.
& Canada (MSA National) continues to serve
Whatever method you use to convey the message, make sure Muslim students during their college and
you take names and contact information for those interested.
Compose a list or database of those individuals, and follow up university careers by facilitating their efforts
with emails and phone calls telling them about the first meeting. to establish, maintain and develop local MSA
Try to collect all of the following information from all interested
individuals: chapters. Towards that end, we aim to create
• Name a strong, diverse network of students who are
• Year/Class
• Major conscious of their Islamic identity, well-trained,
• Phone and committed to serving Islam and Muslims
• Email
• AIM/ICQ/MSN Messenger Name both in North America and around the world.
• Talent applicable to MSA. (Web/graphic design, artist,
public speaker, journalist, etc.) 4. Gather A Core Group Of Members: This group will be
responsible for the activities of the coming year. You should
3. Call A Meeting: Make sure this is well advertised on have an election according to your school’s policies in order
campus. to fill positions such as president, vice president, treasurer,
public relations contact and so on (Roles will be discussed
So what should you talk about at your first meeting? Write an further in Section II). Also, try to get a list of those interested in
agenda and try to stick to it. If possible, send out the agenda to volunteering. Email them when you begin a new project to see
the students. Ask someone to take notes and another to keep if they are interested to help.
time and make sure the discussion is on track. Here are some
things you may want to consider: 5. Register As A Club: When organized, you should register your
chapter with the university student union. This means the school will
Establish A Mission Statement: In order to be successful, recognize you as a religious or cultural organization. It will give you
you must first get a clear idea of what your MSA’s purpose the ability to post signs, be eligible for funding from the university,
is. A mission statement is essentially a shared vision of the and allow you to book university facilities and other privileges.

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04 JANUARY 2008
6. Meet Regularly: Establish a time that most of the members Why should you affiliate your chapter with MSA National?
will be able to meet. Generally, General Body Meetings should MSA National helps to facilitate the needs of local MSAs and
be held at least once a month. Emailing notes to all members acts as their voice in North America and around the world.
or posting meeting minutes on your website will help ensure all MSA National strives to facilitate networking, educating, and
members feel included if they cannot attend the meetings. empowering the students of today to be citizens of tomorrow’s
community.
7. Establish A Bank Account: Some universities provide
accounts and accounting for their clubs. Ask your university Working towards the same goal of pleasing our Creator (swt), we
about its policy on keeping club and managing club funds. It are strengthened by our collectivity and unity. As Allah (swt) has
could be that you’ll need to establish an account with a local bank. commanded in the Glorious Qur’an:
In that scenario, always try to establish the account under the
organizational name, rather than the name of the current president
or another affiliated individual to promote organizational stability.
“And hold fast, all together, by
Ask about tax exempt accounts from your bank. This account
becomes especially important for fundraising. the rope which Allah (stretches
8. Identify Tax Needs: Some MSA’s find benefit in acquiring tax out for you), and be not divided
exempt status for the purpose of providing tax exempt receipts to
donors in order to encourage them to donate to the MSA. While
not necessary, you may find that donors are more encouraged to
among yourselves” (Qu’ran 3:103)
give to a federally recognized tax exempt organization.
This ayah is the statement MSA National was founded
upon in 1963.
State subsidized universities (public universities) are awarded

SECTION I: GET ORGANIZED

tax exempt status, and will sometimes extend that status
Your small affiliation fee can help MSA National make strives
to subsidiary organizations such as clubs. It is easier to get
in Islamic work across the entire United States and Canada.
exemption from under the umbrella of your university, but there
We need your support to sustain and increase efforts such as
might also be greater restrictions or requirements on what you
dawah distribution, political action, conferences and events,
can do with your status. It could be that obtaining tax exemption
education and more. MSA National is only as strong as its
is more trouble than it is worth obtaining. Weigh your options
locals. So affiliate today. Financial assistance and fee reduction
carefully to and decide what is best for your scenario.
is available for MSA’s who cannot afford the fee.
One way to determine the usefulness of exemption is to
There are also many tangible benefits for your chapter that are
analyze your budget. If you are planning to run an Islamic
provided through affiliation with MSA National:
Awareness Week, sponsored by businesses and funded by
large donations, with events totaling above ten thousand
Communication: By affiliating, chapters are better able to
dollars, than it will definitely work to your advantage to have
relay information about themselves and their activities. If they
exemption, if nothing else than for the purchase orders. Have
have an Islamic Awareness Week, for example, they can contact
your treasurer talk to your MSA National zonal representative,
other local MSA Chapters through their zonal representatives to
or University student activities coordinator to determine if tax
coordinate their efforts or benefit from each other’s experiences.
exemption is right for you.
If they want to hold a lecture, they can contact MSA National
for a national list of speakers and obtain access to their contact
9. Establish An Office: This is not always necessary but some
information.
MSAs have found that establishing an office on campus is
very helpful. A physical location, obtained through the student
Access to Information: By affiliating, individual chapters can
government, makes it easy for interested parties to contact you
also obtain information about a wide range of important issues.
for information and is a great channel for facilitating a greater
For example, affiliates can learn from other chapters how to
understanding of Islam on campus. Consider obtaining a mailing
start different projects, to obtain tips on how to get their college
address, a phone number, website, and email address. Please
to recognize the Islamic holidays, as well as tips on how to
be sure to update addresses, phone numbers, web addresses,
deal with anti-Muslim sentiment gain valuable insight from
executive officers, and other information with MSA National to
MSA National’s experience with areas such as fundraisers or
ensue you receive valuable information about national projects
program ideas.
and resources.
Coordination: MSA National has the capabilities to organize
10. Affiliate You Chapter With Msa National
nation-wide and international campaigns, has contacts for MSA
To affiliate your chapter, visit [Link]/contact/affiliate/
chapters in the US and Canada, and can easily use its collective
or contact your Zonal Rep.
voice to make real change. Many issues involve several

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MSAs and not just one. Civil rights issues, for instance, need opportunity to work with MSA National’s Task Forces, which
a coordinated national response. By affiliating with MSA include the:
National, local MSAs can, in essence, become part of the Community Service Task Force (CSTF)
decision-making process for Muslims in North America. Coordinates the various MSAnational community service initiatives
such as Project Downtown. CSTF is available for community
Services: MSA National serves many other functions service project consultations, training and development.
as well; your affiliation is part of what supports these Email: cstf@[Link]
services. Among the work MSA National does for local
MSAs include: COMPASS
Training services provided by professionally trained and
MSA Training Through Compass: provides training services by experienced trainers available to MSA executives. Training
professionally trained and experienced trainers available to MSA sessions may include time management, gender relations,
executives. Training sessions may include time management, successive training and etc. If interested in this service please
gender relations, and succession planning among others. contact your local Zonal representative.
Website: [Link]
Leadership-training: alongside COMPASS, conferences
help train the incoming executives of local chapters in order Political Action Task Force (PATF)
to ensure a smooth transition from the previous year. All year Works on developing various Political projects related to
long, MSA national serves to help MSAs network with each current events within North America that directly affect the
other, coordinate activities, and help support each other. Muslim students.
Email: patf@[Link]
In the process of networking, it maintains the MSA-Org
email list, which facilitates communication and exchange Programs Task Force (PTF)
SECTION I: GET ORGANIZED

of ideas between MSAs across North America. It also Overlooks and aids in developing programs for various MSA
maintains zonal and other regional lists, such as EZ Can National conferences such as the zonal conferences and the
for MSAs in Eastern Canada, WZ Can for MSAs in Western Continental conference while maintaining contact with speakers
Canada, CZUSA for MSAs in Central Zone United States, and local committees.
and so on. These email lists are meant to encourage Email: programs@[Link]
communication and close coordination between MSAs.
Media and Communications Task Force (MCTF)
Zonal Representative: in order to promote more effective Responsible for various media initiatives including the monthly
networking, the regions of the U.S. and Canada are divided MSA National E-letter, publication development for MSA
into 5 zones and there is a zonal representative for each chapters across North America and compiling MSA success
of the 5 zones, and their role helps facilitate and promote stories for In the News.
more effective networking with the local MSA and other Email: mctfchair@[Link]
MSA’s within their region and with MSA National. For submissions to the e-letter contact: eletter@[Link]

MSA National also maintains a speakers bureau. The database Muslims Accommodations Task Force (MATF)
contains not only the speakers’ contact information, but also Research on the various needs of MSA students on campuses in
his/her specialty topics (if any) and comments from MSAs that North America and develops tools that will be able to provide
have utilized him/her, in order to help guide other MSAs in them with reasonable accommodations on campus such as
making the best choice in obtaining a speaker for their particular prayer space, halal food, etc.
topic in their local environment.
Dawah Task Force (DTF)
MSA National holds conferences that thousands of Muslim Responsible for developing guides and ideas for the various
students attend. The conferences provide a forum to bring dawah initiatives of MSA such as Islamic Awareness Week,
students from across the continent physically together, while compiling relevant information for the various events
face-to-face, in order to strengthen the ties of brotherhood along with statistics of past years.
and help re-energize the hearts and minds to go back and For Fast-A-Thon contact: fastathon@[Link]
be active on campus. There is the annual MSA Continental For IAW contact: iaw@[Link] Information
Conference, held in cooperation with the annual ISNA
convention annually and also the zonal conferences, held Technology Task Force (ITTF)
during the spring of the academic year, with one conference Responsible for the various technical aspects of MSA
in each of the 5 MSA National Zones. National, including maintaining the website and
server while updating online content and payments.
Furthermore, being affiliated with MSA gives students the Email: ittfchair@[Link]

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Section II. Assign Roles Committees: It is often helpful to form committees or task
forces to focus on specific events or tasks. Committees can be
Once a strong member base has been established, the newly standing (ex. Education, Community Service, etc.) or one-time
formed MSA should elect its officers (see university rules for committees (ex. Eid Banquet). MSA National, for example,
election procedures). The following are suggested positions currently has the following standing task forces: Finance,
(addition or omission of positions may be required): Information Technology, Muslim Accommodations, Dawah,
Media and Communications, Political Action, Programs, and
President: The president is responsible for overseeing Education. There are also groups formed for special issues such
everything that goes on within the organization. He/She as the Free Iraq Foundation.
delegates responsibilities / tasks, works with the university
administration, and checks on the progress of activities. He/She There are numerous different projects to pursue and positions to
also acts as the public face of the organization (with the help of fill. So try to get everyone involved!
any public relations representatives).

SECTION II: ASSIGN ROLES

Vice President: The vice president assists the president in
Section III. Get Started
overseeing operations. The vice presidency is usually the individual
Once you’ve established your MSA Chapter, its time to get to
who receives the second-largest amount of votes in the election.
work! Every MSA chapter is different so there is no single way
to do things. You have to assess your needs, available resources,
Treasurer: The treasurer creates and balances a budget,
and create a strategy. For example, one of your main goals may
coordinates fundraising and maintains accounting procedures.
be to work on prayer accommodations and activities to fulfill
The treasurer is responsible for allocating funds and handling
a social need. If these needs are already met, your goals may
all financial transactions.
be more complex. Start off small: don’t spread your resources
too thin. Start out with the basics and as you grow, gradually
Secretary: The secretary keeps meeting minutes; records ideas, policy
expand your activities. Below are some possible MSA projects
changes, and action items; and sees to the archiving or dissemination
and event categories.
of that information. Depending on the MSA’s structure, the secretary
may also be responsible for room reservations.
Prayer accommodations: Every Muslim needs a place to pray
on campus where they feel comfortable. Talk to your university/
Sisters’ Coordinator: Although many events are for both
school about designating an area especially for Muslims to
brothers and sisters, there may be a need for sisters-only events
pray. You can do this by either establishing a permanent space
and correspondence. The sisters’ coordinator advertises and
just for prayer or simply schedule on empty classrooms to use
organizes such events and facilitates communication between
for this purpose.
sisters. It is crucial that the sister-specific needs are also

S E C T I O N I I I : G E T S TA R T E D
addressed in co-ed gatherings and events.
Jummah: Depending on how many people you expect at Friday
prayer, you can either use the same prayer space as mentioned
Brothers’ Coordinator: The role of the brothers’ coordinator
before or you can ask your school to find a larger room to reserve
emulates that of the sisters’ coordinator.
every Friday. You will also need to find a qualified individual to
give the khutbah and lead the students in prayer. Traditionally,
Public Relations Director: The public relations director
this is one of the largest events MSAs hold. This is a good time
creates flyers, advertises for events, establishes contacts with
to make announcements and encourage people to participate in
the media, issues press releases when necessary, and keeps the
MSA events. It may be beneficial to do social events (lunch,
MSA executives informed about pertinent issues on and off
BBQ, picnic, etc) following the prayer to build unity and invite
campus. The PR director should be in frequent correspondence
others to learn about Islam.
with the MSA National Zonal Rep in case of any issues that
arise on campus. This will help the MSA synchronize responses
Communication: In order to stay connected to your members,
with the response of the national Muslim community.
create a list serve and a website for the MSA. There can be a
general list serve as well as separate brothers and sisters list
The following positions are usually not determined through
serves to advertise for specific events. A popular service is yahoo
elections, but instead assigned by the board of directors based
or gmail groups, available through [Link] or [Link].
on interest and qualification.
You should also be able to arrange a list serve using the address
book provided by your schools email account. Consult your
Project Chairs: To make event organization as simple as
school’s IT department for more information.
possible and get more people involved, there should be one
person responsible for each project or event. This person should
Advertising: Advertising is a key part of event planning.
communicate with the board of directors and work with a team
Muslims new to campus often find the MSA through flyers,
of volunteers.

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a booth at a club fair, or the school-wide online calendar.

Good publicity will make sure all the Muslims know the
MSA exists and invite students of other faiths to learn about
Islam and to socialize. Advertising tips from MSAs across
the country include:

• Have a booth at New Student orientation; if possible

become part of the orientation schedule.
• Post flyers around campus in high-traffic areas and at the
prayer room. This may seem redundant but it’s is always
a good way to advertise to students who may not be
connected with the MSA (be sure to check you school’s
flyer posting rules).
• Get a group to “go flyering” is a great way to not only
make putting up flyers fun, but to also get freshmen and
new members involved.
• Send an e-mail on your list serve.
• Ask members to forward the e-mail flyer to their contacts
• Give each MSA member a packet of five mini-flyers. Have
each MSA member give out all of the flyers.
• Announce the event at General Body Meetings and after
Jummah.
• Post all events on the university online calendar.
• Post events and announcements on the MSA website.
S E C T I O N I I I : G E T S TA R T E D

• Make announcements in relevant classes. For example,

if your MSA is holding an Islam Awareness Week, have
students announce the week and pass out flyers in all Islam
classes (be sure to ask the professor before making the
announcement!)
• Network with other campus groups. Ask other groups to
co-sponsor related events.

You may want to extend a warm welcome to other faith-

based groups such as the Jewish Student Association (JSA)
and Christian groups. Let them know that you want to work
together to provide beneficial services to students, and
facilitate a stronger student environment on campus. Make
sure they see you as a potential ally for certain issues.

Social Events: Getting to know your fellow Muslims is a very

important part of campus life. For many students, college is their
first time away from home and they are looking for a group of
friends. Muslim students should be able to support and encourage
one another. Create a Muslim community at your campus and
invite others to Islam.

Dawah/Interfaith: The campus is the perfect opportunity to

engage both Muslims and people of other faiths in dialogue.
Today’s students will be tomorrow’s leaders; you have the
ability to inform their perception of Islam. So how do you
get the message to them? The possibilities are endless. To
be effective, it is important to be friendly and welcoming to
people from all walks of life.

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08 JANUARY 2008
Here Are Some Ideas listening to lectures, reading Islamic books, or taking distance
learning classes together. The local Muslim community may

from MSAs Across the

also have learning opportunities.

Political/Campus Action: Consider forming committees for

U.S and Canada: certain issues that need to be addressed on the campus or larger
level. It’s best to be proactive rather than reactive.
Islam Awareness Week (IAW): Started in the 1990’s, this event
became a national program through MSA National. Variations Get involved in university/community affairs: This could
include IAD (Islam Awareness Day) and IAM (Islam Awareness mean networking with other groups that are interested in the
Month). The following activities can be held as part of an IAW same issues as your MSA chapter. It could also mean individual
or separately (more about IAW under “Events, Projects & Other MSA members joining other clubs and, if interested, holding a
Useful Ideas”). position on the board of these organizations. This will help to
ensure that Muslims are well represented.
The Dawah Table: Inform people about Islam in your central
campus hangout. Get a group of brothers and sisters to pass Utilize the Media: Take an interest in issues related to your
out flyers, pamphlets, and other materials. Have a sign-up list cause. Respond and inquire not only to issues relating to Muslim
for your list serve and flyers for your upcoming events. Ask countries or just political issues but social issues as well. Discuss
questions to encourage a dialogue and try to get people’s national and local issues, the needs of the disadvantaged, the
attention. Be creative, be nice and be careful. If you’re not sure weak, the poor, etc. It’s helpful to appoint a public relations
about something, say, “I’m not sure, but I can find out and get representative. Use whatever channels are available to you:

SECTION IV: PROCEDURES GUIDELINES

back to you.” Try not to speak on a subject or answer a question local radio, local paper, university paper, etc.
you are unfamiliar with.
Get involved in your University: Hold events about Islam’s
Sign Dawah: Think of something eye-catching, a slogan, or contribution to various subject areas such as history, sociology,
“brain teaser” to teach about Islam. Put it on a poster or sign medicine, architecture etc. Invite professors who teach courses
for all to see. Creativity and originality are key. Include your related to these fields of study. Hold rallies, call-ins, and other
website address or office location where passers-by can find peaceful, well-organized events.
more information. Some successful slogans include:
“In the US there are approximately 7 million _________. For
the answer visit [Link] (Answer: Muslims) Section IV. Procedures Guidelines
“Think Fast To learn more about the Fast-A-Thon visit:
[Link]” Creating An Annual Budget: Although creating and sticking
to a budget is the ultimate responsibility of the treasurer, it is
Lectures Series and Interfaith Dinners: Invite knowledgeable very difficult to balance a budget without input and adhesion
speakers on interesting topics or host a dinner. Have other from all other ‘departments’ and individuals. Before the year
student groups co-sponsor the event to increase attendance. begins, the treasurer and his/her financial team should consider
Its beneficial to have “greeters” who welcome attendees and if possible fund-raising activities for the year. At the same time,
necessary help them find a seat. the President should ask each committee to meet regularly
to create a list of activities and a budget for the committee
Dawah By Example: As Muslims on campus, MSA members by a certain date. The calendar of activities and budgets of
often find themselves representing Islam to their classmates and all the committees should then be reviewed by the Executive
professors. Thus it’s important to be conscious of this role and Committee for discussion, modification, and approval. After
portray Islam in a positive light through our behavior. Continue approval of the committee or project budgets, the treasurer can
to be a part of the campus community and support worthwhile compile the committee budgets and other administrative costs
activities on your campus. Some possible activities include: to create an organizational budget that is all-encompassing for
• Support, establish or help a food/clothing bank the year.
• Join in Alcohol & Drug Awareness campaigns
• Support human rights organizations with similar goals Implementing Your Budget: The treasurer should work directly
with each committee to oversee their financial expenditures. If
Education: Make the most of your college years; it’s a perfect a financial team/committee has been successfully composed,
time to increase your own knowledge about Islam. Start study each member can be assigned to a committee (or to multiple
groups that meet once a week or every two weeks. Have students committees, depending on the number of financial committee
take turns each week to prepare a topic to give every student members and the number of committees). The financial team
the opportunity to research, grow, and learn. Some examples member will then be responsible for overseeing all finance-
include Qur’an memorization sessions, Islamic history classes, related activities for that committee for the year.

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All financial transactions should go through the Treasurer for Planning an Event: Great! You’re ready to plan your first
approval and recording. The Treasurer should keep a log of event! Here are some guidelines for you to consider:
all monetary transactions, as well as oversee and monitor all
financial accounts (university checking accounts, bank accounts, Reserve a location
etc.). The Treasurer should head the financial committee and Check with your university to see what rooms are available for
keep up to date with their progress. All committees must the date you desire (consider size of room, setup, and availability
carefully watch their expenditures so they do not exceed their of necessary equipment).
budgetary limits. • Make a list of your university’s policies concerning food,
fundraising, etc.
The Treasurer is responsible for distributing a financial report • Make sure you have the required audio-visual equipment.
to the Executive Committee and all interested members at the
end of each term. Depending on the nature of the event, you may need special
permits or support from the university or the local government.
Fundraising: Fundraising takes creativity and enthusiasm. For rallies, marches, and off-campus events, contact your local
Here are some examples of ways to raise funds for your MSA police or park authority
chapter:
• Membership Dues: This is helpful to get started but don’t Find a Speaker
let this alienate potential members. Always let members First, think about your event’s theme, then think about what
know what services they are receiving by paying their local or national speakers are knowledgeable about the topic.
membership dues. Membership dues vary by MSA but
typically are around $5-$20. If you are an affiliated chapter, you can e-mail:
SECTION IV: PROCEDURES GUIDELINES

• Sell Memorabilia: This can require money upfront, but speakers@[Link] to request speaker contact information.
will also help to advertise for your MSA and will promote
unity and loyalty. Products include T-shirts, calendars and Negotiate an honorarium or some form of compensation,
books. T-shirts / sweatshirts are the most successful product travel accommodations, and other issues with the speaker.
if the right number and sizes are ordered. MSAs can reduce Treat your speaker with the utmost hospitality; make sure
risk by requiring members to pre-order shirts. your guest feels welcome.
• Fundraising Drive: Distribute pamphlets, postcards or
mailing well written letters with a description of the needs Discuss what type of lecture you would like and work with the
of your MSA chapter. Likely donors include parents, other speaker to make sure he or she has ample time to prepare and
family members, friends, alumni and local businesses. address the topic.
• Jummah Fundraising: Make Announcements after
Friday prayer and pass around boxes. Try taking your Delegate to Volunteers
campaign to the local Mosque; ask if your volunteers can You should have volunteers for each committee. For a lecture
make an announcement after Jummah and pass around dinner, for example, you would need volunteers to be in charge
boxes. of the following areas:
• Events: Host a lecture dinner or a similar activity to • Hosting the speaker
solicit donations. Focus on inviting potential donors and • Room/equipment reservation
creating a powerful yet simple program. Create pledge • Food
cards and donation boxes to pass out. Hosting meals • Decoration/Setup
during Ramadan and collecting donations are also a good • Registration (if applicable)
way of collecting funds. • Event moderator (this person should introduce the speaker,
• Ad Booklet: If your MSA is holding an event, give handle questions and make sure everything is going
local businesses the opportunity to advertise in your smoothly; this role is especially important if the topic is
program or create a separate ad booklet that will be controversial.)
distributed to attendees. Businesses and organizations • Cleanup
will receive recognition for their generosity and your
MSA will raise funds. Be prepared for the worst-case scenarios and create backup plans.
• Co-Sponsorship: For iftars (Ramadan Dinners) or
other events, consider having organizations, campus Advertise for the Event
departments, or student groups sponsor the event by Advertising for the event should be done in advance and
covering all or part of the cost. In exchange the sponsor perhaps a more intense advertisement should be planned for the
may ask for speaking time in the program. In appreciation, day before/of the event. Be creative, make people think, make
consider inviting the sponsor to the event, publicly them interested. Of course, make sure your university approves
recognizing the sponsor(s) and sending a thank-you card your advertisements. Free food is always a great incentive for
signed by your Executive Committee. people to attend.

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Section V. Events, Projects & Other MIST: The Muslim Interscholastic tournament is a program for
high school students designed to encourage their participation
Useful Ideas in MSA, network with fellow MSA students, work together
in teams, and increase their knowledge in Islam. MIST has
Ramadan Fast-a-Thon: During the month of Ramadan, many MSA regional tournaments that also follow a conference style of
chapters organize Fast-a-Thons to educate people of other faiths education demonstrated by MSA National. MIST cannot,
about Islam, raise money for the hungry, and remind each other of however, be practiced by high school MSAs without the
the blessings of Allah. Muslim students encourage their non-Muslim sponsorship of a University MSA. Remember, high school
peers to fast for one day and get local business to sponsor the event students are tomorrow’s university MSA officers, so encourage
and donate money for a local food bank or shelter. Join over 200 and mentor the youth in your area by participating in MIST. For
campuses across the US and Canada and hold a Fast-a-Thon! more information, visit: [Link]

MSA National has a how-to packet for the Ramadan Fast-a-Thon. MSAs in the News:
To receive the packet e-mail fastathon@[Link] Also, Interested in learning more about what other MSAs are doing
after your Fast-a-Thon, e-mail fastathon@[Link] with across the country? Visit [Link]/inthenews to
the number of attendees and amount raised so MSA National see a database of news articles about MSA events and activities.
can accurately answer media questions and highlight the positive
contributions of Muslims on campus. Outreach Within Your Muslim Community:
Consider working with the Muslim community near your
Islam Awareness Week/Month Islamic Awareness Week/Month campus to access more resources and further strengthen the
is an event that is scheduled for the spring semester of each Muslim community. If you are part of a high school MSA,
contact your local college MSA chapter.

SECTION V: EVENTS, PROJECTS, ETC.

year. During this week or month, events are held by the MSA
to encourage awareness of Islam, dispel misconceptions, reach
out to the larger campus community, and encourage less active Establish and maintain contact with High School MSA chapters
Muslims to participate in an MSA event. or MYNA chapters and work on enriching the development of
the Muslim youth within them.
Muslim Accommodations: Work to get accommodations
on campus such as Muslim housing, a prayer area, and Make a constructed effort to reach out to the Muslims within
Islamic holidays. To view professional guides visit: your school that are not involved with the MSA. Make all
[Link] students feel like there is place for them within your MSA.
Outreach outside of the Muslim community:
Management Training: Do you want to take your MSA to the
next level? Do you believe in professionalism? Hold a day-long Develop interfaith partnerships with other faith groups within
training event with COMPASS, MSA National’s management your school.
training task force. With trainers with years of MSA and
professional experience, COMPASS will train your members Giving Charity plays an important role in a Muslims life and
using modules designed specifically for the MSA context. And this should be considered during the developmental stages of
there is NO fee for MSA chapters! Visit [Link] your outreach campaigns. Focus on easy ways to serve your
for more information. community such as holding a project downtown by volunteering
at homeless shelters, assisted living centers, food kitchens or
Community Service: Work with other MSAs and campus non-profit organizations. These organizations will often be
groups to feed the homeless each month by hosting a Project happy to have the extra help!
Downtown. A small act can have a profound impact. For more
information visit [Link] Try your best to practice Islam as the Prophet (pbuh) did. You
can tell people all about the beauty within Islam, but it will be
MSA National Conferences: Each year, MSA National holds easier to convey this message through your everyday actions.
and sponsors many conferences. Affecting hundreds of students, Allah (swt) says,
these conferences provide an opportunity for Muslim students
to interact with scholars, learn about Islam, network with other
students, and learn how to improve their MSAs (all for typically
less than $100 for registration, food and hotel). Often MSAs can
“Is there any reward for good
get their university’s to pay for part of the registration expenses. other than good?” (Qu’ran 55:60)
Also, consider working with other MSAs and state / regional
councils to organize carpools and buses to make the trip even
more affordable and fun. For dates and locations of Zonal,
Continental and other conferences, visit [Link]

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 S T A R T E R G U I D E How To Establish And Operate A Successful MSA Chapter

Appendix A: Resources Appendix B: Sample Constitutions

Georgetown University MSA:
MSA National: [Link]
Introduction and Mission
We, the Muslim students of Georgetown University, out of our
MSA National Zonal webpages:
faith and dedication to the service of Islam, do hereby proclaim
East Zone USA: [Link]
the establishment of the Muslims Students Association, so that
Central Zone USA: [Link]
collectively we can share in a common set of moral commitments
West Zone USA: [Link]
rooted in the message of Islam; engage in religious, social and
East Zone Canada: [Link]
community activities; support educational and intellectual
West Zone Canada: [Link]
pursuits; and continue to promote the goals of Muslim students in
Georgetown University, and thus serve our faith as best we can.
Ramadan Fast-a-Thon: [Link]
To this effect, we hereby set forth and enact the following
APPENDIX A: RESOURCES

Speakers Database: Contact: speakers@[Link]

laws governing the Muslim Students Association which shall
be binding on each and all of us in totality, until and unless
Halal Food guide, Prayer Room Guide, Islamic Holiday Guide,
properly amended by the provisions herein.
all available through the Muslim Accommodations Task force.
These guides are free when you become a member of MSA
Article I– Establishment and Name
National. See [Link]/taskforces/matf/ for more
The name of the organization will be the Muslim Students
details.
Association henceforth referred to as MSA. As an Islamic
institution it will strive to conduct itself in accordance with
Workers Training Program: An Interactive lecture series
the Qur’an and Sunnah. In such a capacity the organization is
with trainers who are sent to your MSA chapter to go over
bound first and foremost by the aforementioned sources.
the organization, management and maintenance of a chapter.
Contact compass@[Link]
Article II– Affiliation
The MSA will function under the auspices of the Office of
Visit our website on a regular basis: [Link]
Student Programs in all matters related to the successful
org, and sign up for MSA mailing lists including zonal lists!
fulfillment of its mission and will abide by all policies set forth
by Georgetown University in accordance with its mission. In
A database of MSA projects and activities: Get the info on
those matters permitting a closer interaction with the Campus
APPENDIX B: SAMPLE CONSTITUTIONS

what Muslim Students are doing in the United States and Canada:
Ministry, the MSA will actively seek the Campus Ministry’s
[Link]
cooperation in its activities so as to strengthen the MSA’s ability
to fulfill its mission as outlined in Article III.
Muslim Interscholastic Tournament: [Link]
Article III– Objectives
We hope this guide has been helpful! Please keep your
The objectives of this organization are to provide a means for
Zonal Rep informed about your MSA development and visit
Muslims at Georgetown University to fulfill their obligations
[Link] often for more updates and resources!
to Islam:
• To create an environment on campus that will foster the
MSA National is always looking for insights into serving chapters
development and growth of the diverse Muslim community
better. If you have any suggestions please contact your Zonal Rep
at Georgetown University.
or manager@[Link] or call 703-820-7900.
• To provide Muslims with proper accommodations to fulfill
©Muslim Student Association (MSA) National 2007-2008 Executive Committee religious obligations including maintenance of the Prayer
room, the organization of the Friday prayer, as well as any
accommodations for Ramadan.
• To sponsor programming and events that positively
contribute to the development of Islam and Muslims on
campus. This may include lectures, panel discussions,
halaqas (Islamic discussion groups) as well as social
events.
• To act as a resource to the whole campus community and
represent Islam in the best possible manner.
• To actively engage both Muslims and non-Muslims in
a portrayal of the message of Islam as completely and
accurately as possible.

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12 JANUARY 2008
Article IV- Membership of the request, asking the officer to be present at the next
The MSA openly admits undergraduate students to its meeting prepared to speak in their own defense
membership and does not discriminate on the basis of race, c) Written notification to the membership by the Executive
creed, color, sex, or national origin. Board
d) After due deliberation, the Executive Board, minus the
Regular: Membership shall be limited to persons officially officer in question, will present its recommendation to a
connected with the University as enrolled undergraduate general body meeting called for this purpose. The quorum
students. Only regular members have voting rights. for this meeting shall be at least two-fifths (2/5) of the
regular members in MSA in good standing of which a 2/3
Honorary: The MSA may elect an honorary member from majority vote is necessary to remove the officer.
outside the University to recognize any person who has given
distinguished service to the organization. The President, in consultation with the Board, reserves the right
to remove non-voting officers.
Associate: The MSA also recognizes the significant Muslim
population at Georgetown University that does not fall under Article VII– Amendments
the category of regular membership. The MSA invites interested Amendments may be proposed to the constitution by
graduate students, faculty members, staff personnel, and alumni a) At least ten (10) regular members in good standing
to actively participate in the organization. Such members will b) The MSA Executive Board
henceforth be recognized as Associate members.
After due deliberation, the Executive Board will present its
Article V– Internal Structure recommendation to a general body meeting called for this

APPENDIX B: SAMPLE CONSTITUTIONS

General Body: The general body shall consist of those purpose. The announcement for a meeting for a constitutional
individuals who have been accepted as members in accordance change must take place at least one week prior to the meeting.
with the provisions listed under Article IV. Regular members The quorum for this meeting shall be at least two-fifths (2/5)
shall be the main policy-making body of MSA. It may, however, of the regular members in MSA in good standing, of which
for the smoother running of its affairs, delegate this authority to a 2/3 majority will be needed to amend the constitution. The
the various components as outlined herein. All actions taken by amendments will become effective immediately upon adoption
any officer may be approved, rejected, or amended by this body. and adjournment of the general body in which it is passed.

Executive Board: The Board shall be the executive body of Bylaws

MSA and shall consist of at least five officers elected by the Article I– Dues
regular members of MSA. Members of MSA shall pay dues and assessments as determined
by the Executive Board. All interested undergraduate students
Article VI– Officers must pay the set amount per election year to qualify for regular
Eligibility: Voting officers of MSA must be full-time membership in good standing. Associate and honorary members
undergraduate students at Georgetown University capable will not be required to pay dues. In those years in which the
of sincerely performing and executing the mission of the Board chooses not to set dues, interested undergraduate students
MSA as stipulated in Article III of this document. They are exempted from this requirement.
must be regular members in good standing prior to being
considered for office. Article II– Meetings
General Body: The date and place of the meeting will be
The President, in consultation with the Board, may appoint decided by the Executive Board. The meeting will be announced
other non-voting officers if necessary. Non-voting officers must at least one week in advance. At any general meeting of MSA,
be full-time undergraduate students enrolled at Georgetown the membership may direct the Board to appoint committees
University and must be regular members in good standing that pertain to the aims and objectives of the Association.
prior to being considered for office. The board shall execute A quorum shall constitute the presence of at least two-fifths
its commitments in accordance with the principles of shura (2/5) of the regular members of MSA. A simple majority of
(consultation) outlined in the Qur’an and Sunnah. those present will be required for adoption of a resolution. To
override a Board action, a majority of two-thirds (2/3) of those
Removal: Any officer of the MSA in violation of the voting will be considered affirmative.
organization’s purpose or constitution may be removed from
office by the following process: Executive Board: The Board shall meet at a time determined
a) A written request by at least ten (10) members of the by its voting officers. The Board may also be called into session
organization to the Executive Board stating the reasons at any time by the President or any three (3) members of the
for removal. Board. MSA Board meetings may be attended by any member
b) Written notification by the Executive Board to the officer of the MSA. A quorum of the Board shall constitute of no less

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 S T A R T E R G U I D E How To Establish And Operate A Successful MSA Chapter

than fifty (50) percent of its voting members, one of whom must appoint a representative from each undergraduate class. Their
be the President or Vice-President. Officers may vote in absentia duties include:
provided that they submit a signed confirmation of their vote. 1. Serve as a conduit between the constituency and the
Board meetings will be scheduled once a week. These meetings Executive Board.
will be open to all MSA members. The Board can also decide to 2. Find key ways to mobilize grass-roots support for MSA
schedule other meeting times; attendance at these meetings is at activities.
the discretion of the board and may be closed. 3. Contribute to the organization and running of MSA
activities.
Article III– Duties of Officers 4. Assist the secretary in membership drives.
The voting officers of this association shall have the following
duties: Article IV– Standing Committees
President: To facilitate discussion and planning, the Executive Council
1. Be the presiding officer of all meetings shall maintain standing committees comprised of a chairperson
2. Appoint all committee chairpersons and make individual and other members. The chairperson shall be a regular member
appointments with consultation of the Executive Board in good standing while any member- regular, honorary, or
3. Be an ex-officio member of all committees associate- may sit on a committee. Standing committees may
4. Set the agenda of all MSA meetings only make recommendations to the Executive Board.
5. Attend 90% of all meetings
Article V– Relationship to Faculty Advisor
Vice-President: MSA may select a member of the faculty in good standing from
1. Preside at all meetings and functions that the president the University to advise the Association on matters relating to
APPENDIX B: SAMPLE CONSTITUTIONS

cannot attend the pursuit of its mission. The Executive Board will nominate
2. Act as an advisor to the President a candidate and will present him or her to the General Body for
3. Serve as President in the event that the President resigns approval. A quorum shall constitute two-fifths (2/5) of the regular
members of MSA, and 2/3 vote is necessary to approve the
Secretary: action. The faculty advisor retains their position for a maximum
1. Keep a record of all meetings of MSA of two years, upon which their position can be renewed through
2. Supervise all arrangements for the holding of each meeting voting procedures. The removal of a faculty advisor shall require
in compliance with the constitution and bylaws a meeting of the general body in which a two-fifths (2/5) of
3. Conduct membership drives and update the directory the regular members shall constitute a quorum. A 2/3 vote is
4. Maintain a list of voting and active members and handle necessary to remove the faculty advisor. It is not necessary for
incoming new members the MSA to maintain a faculty advisor position.
5. Maintain email server list.
The Faculty Advisor Shall Have The Following Duties:
Treasurer: 1. Advise the Association in all matters relating to the pursuit
1. Keep a record of all funds of MSA of its mission.
2. Dispense funds as approved by the Executive Board and 2. Serve as an advocate for the Association in Georgetown
under direction from the Office of Student Programs University.
3. Present a state of accounts to the Executive Board or 3. Attend at least one general body meeting per semester.
General Body upon request
4. Notify each member of their financial obligations, including Article VI– Relationship to Imam (Campus Ministry)
dues and other costs MSA recognizes the important role that Campus Ministry
fulfills in Georgetown University and affirms that it provides a
Public Relations positive resource for the enrichment of the Muslim common life
1. Supervise and execute all announcements of programming on campus. The Campus Ministry is a source of guidance and
or meetings to the members and larger community. spiritual leadership that provides MSA with advice, programs,
2. Remain in touch with campus media groups and academic financial resources, and an opportunity to engage other faiths.
departments. The Muslim Imam of the Campus Ministry shall serve as a
3. The non-voting officers of the organization shall have the liaison between the MSA and Campus Ministry.
following duties:
Article VII– Elections
Past-Officers: Voting Eligibility: Only those members meeting all requirements
1. Act as advisors to the Executive Board of regular membership under Article IV of the Constitution and
Article I of the bylaws will be eligible to vote.
Class Councilors (4):
The President, in consultation with the Executive Board, may Election: The election will be held by the general body on

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14 JANUARY 2008
an annual basis no later than February 15 of each academic Article X– Amendments
year. The President will take nominations from the floor, The bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the full
the nomination process must be closed, and the movement Executive Board. These amendments shall be presented to the
seconded. The nominated parties will be allowed to vote if they general body at the following general meeting.
are eligible voting members. The elections will be conducted
by secret ballot and a simple majority will determine election Article XI– MSA Web page
to an office. Votes shall be tabulated by the secretary and one The MSA web page will be maintained by the MSA Board. This
MSA voting member appointed by the outgoing president. No responsibility may be delegated to a member of or outside the
member can be elected to any office unless enrolled in classes Georgetown University MSA. The content of the MSA web
at Georgetown campus during the semester. page will be determined by the Board.

Run-Off: In the case that a majority of votes is not achieved by Other MSA Constitutions:
any candidate, a run-off election will be conducted between the University of Michigan:
top two candidates receiving the most votes. New names will [Link]
neither be sought or added to the list of candidates indicated on
the original ballot for the post in consideration. The reelection Simon Fraiser University:
will be conducted by the same voters present and no new votes [Link]
will be allowed.

Terms: All candidates will be limited to a one-year term. Term

of office will begin two weeks from the date of election and end

APPENDIX B: SAMPLE CONSTITUTIONS

when new members take office the following year.

Article VIII– Vacancies

An office of MSA shall be declared vacant by the Executive
Board when an officer resigns or becomes unable to carry out
duties of the office for reasons of health or otherwise. The
Executive Board shall fill a vacant post under the following
guidelines:

President: The Vice-President shall succeed to the presidency

for the un-expired term. If the VP declines, the Board shall
choose a new President from the elected Board members.

Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Public Relations: The

vacancy will be filled by a special election to be directed by the
President in accordance with Article VII of the Bylaws.

Class Representatives: The President, in consultation with the

Executive Board, shall appoint a new representative immediately.

Article IX– Finances and Records

Funds for meetings and expenses of MSA shall be raised from
the Student Activities Commission’s annual allocation, Campus
Ministry, annual dues if necessary, special assessments, and
voluntary contributions.

MSA will submit a budget to the appropriate office of the

student program advisory board on an annual basis and
request funding appropriate for the effective operation
of MSA. MSA will conduct all financial activities in
accordance with Islam as well as with university policy and
place all funds in its university account. MSA funds and
records will be handled and managed exclusively by the
MSA Executive Board under the direction of the Office of
Student Programs.

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© MSA National, 2008
P.O. Box 1096
Falls Church, VA 22041
Tel: (703) 820-7900
Fax: (703) 820-7888
[Link]