Endorsed by: Dr. Grace Gombolay, Chair, Membership Committee
Approved by the Board of Directors: February 2025
CNS Membership Vote Results: The CNS membership voted on a proposed bylaws amendment that closed on August 31, 2025. Members voted to approve the amendment to streamline the Active Membership approval process. This change is effective immediately.
Overview
The Child Neurology Society (CNS) is proposing a change to its bylaws to improve the efficiency of processing active membership applications. This change specifically affects how applications are reviewed based on an applicant’s qualifications.
Active members will be asked to vote on this proposal during the upcoming election period. Before casting your vote, we encourage you to review the details below and view the proposed bylaws edit here.
Current Process
Under the existing bylaws, all active membership applications must be reviewed and approved by the Membership Committee and then ratified by the Board of Directors—regardless of the applicant’s credentials.
Why Change Is Needed
The current process creates unnecessary delays for applicants who already meet CNS’s core eligibility criteria: those certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in Neurology with Special Qualification in Child Neurology. Requiring additional committee review slows down onboarding and access to member benefits.
What’s Changing
The proposed amendment updates the review process for active membership applications as follows:
Applications under Sections B and C
These include applicants who are eligible for ABPN certification or those who qualify based on significant contributions to the field.
- Will continue to be reviewed and approved by the Membership Committee.
Applications under Section A (ABPN-Certified Applicants)
These applicants are already certified in Neurology with Special Qualification in Child Neurology by the ABPN.
- Will be verified and approved by CNS staff.
- Membership Committee review will no longer be required.
Benefits of the Proposed Change
- Faster Processing
Applicants with ABPN certification will gain quicker access to CNS benefits, including discounted registration for the Annual Meeting.
- Greater Efficiency
The Membership Committee can focus on applications that require more nuanced review, making the overall process more effective.
- Modernized Membership Experience
This adjustment aligns our bylaws with the growing needs of the CNS community and ensures a high standard of service for prospective members.
What Happens Next
- This proposed bylaw amendment was approved by the Board of Directors in February 2025.
- It is now being presented to the CNS membership for a vote as part of the 2025 election cycle (August 2025).
- If approved by a majority vote, the change will take effect immediately.
View Full Bylaws Change
Your Voice Matters
We encourage all eligible CNS members to cast their vote and help shape the future of our Society. Thank you for your engagement and support as we continue to strengthen and grow our community.
If you have any questions about this proposed change, please contact the CNS National Office at nationaloffice@childneurologysociety.org.