Vacancies in officer positions are filled by...

• A. By automatic appointment by the president.
• B. Refilled by the next general election cycle only.
• C. By a special election or temporary appointment as provided by the bylaws.
• D. No vacancies allowed; position remains vacant until next year.

Answer: (C)

When a vacancy arises in an officer’s role, the organization’s bylaws tell you how to fill it. The standard approach is to use a special election or a temporary appointment as provided by the bylaws. This keeps leadership working smoothly and ensures the process follows the rules the group has set, giving both legitimacy and continuity. A special election lets members participate in choosing a successor, while a temporary appointment allows immediate coverage of duties so there’s no leadership gap while a more permanent decision is made or until the next scheduled election. Automatic appointment by the president bypasses the established rules, and waiting for the next general election or leaving the position vacant creates gaps in leadership. Following the bylaws for vacancies—through a special election or temporary appointment—keeps governance orderly and compliant.