NC Delegation to House of Delegates

What is the House of Delegates?

The House of Delegates (sometimes just called "House" or "the House") is when the delegates from all states and sections get together to formally vote on the motions created at the smaller meetings held throughout the year. Motions that are adopted are used by the APTA Board of Directors, lobbyists, and other advocates when making decisions on where to spend their time and financial resources.

Smaller meetings among delegates occur constantly throughout the year to determine the most important issues to their constituents and create motions based on these interests. These meetings can consist of delegates from one or multiple state chapters and/or section academies. Delegates will also meet within their own state chapter or section academy throughout the year to discuss thoughts and opinions brought to their attention by their constituents.

All APTA members have the opportunity to vote for delegates in their state chapter or section academy. These elected individuals speak and vote on behalf of the interests of their constituents (the APTA members of their state chapter or section academy).

North Carolina Delegation

APTA North Carolina has thirteen seats in the APTA House of Delegates that has a total of four-hundred-thirty-nine seats. Each Academy or Section has two seats for a total of thirty-six. The other seats are divided between the fifty one Chapters (includes DC) by proportion of membership.

A delegate's term is two years long and delegates can run for that office as often as they like. The Chief Delegate's term is three years long and limited to two consecutive terms, as that position also serves as on the Board of Directors. The APTA North Carolina Bylaws calls for one seat on the Delegation to be filled by the Chapter president, who also serves a 3-year term, limited to two terms.

Every year, the Chapter holds elections in October to start the following January. As the general delegate positions are 2-year terms, every year, we have approximately half of the seats up for election each year. The top vote-getters are elected, with the following two candidates in vote-count earning slots as alternate delegates for one year.

Alternate delegates attend all the same meetings and learn all the same information about ongoing motions and issues. Fairly often, if a delegate is unable to attend the House of Delegates, an alternate delegate will serve in the House with a vote.

Types of Motions

Adopt/Statement

A statement that identifies a stance or priority of APTA. When a statement is adopted, it indicates that a large portion of the profession supports it. Any PT or PTA can use it to support their advocacy efforts. The APTA Board of Directors also uses statements to guide their decision-making and allocation of resources.

Charge

The House (representing all APTA members) tasks the Board of Directors with allocating time and financial resources to a specific project.

Election

Selects individuals to fill specific roles, such as the Board of Directors or honorary APTA memberships for strong allies that are not PTs or PTAs.

Delegate
2025

Durham

Crystal Ostlind

PTA Caucus Rep
2024-2025

Wilmington