Frequently Asked Questions

Q:      What is TAME?

A:      The Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering, Inc. (TAME) is a non-profit, statewide organization pre-college program whose purpose is to increase the number of women and underrepresented minorities enrolling in and graduating from universities and colleges with degrees in Engineering, Science, and Computer Science in preparation for related professions.

Q:      What is a TAME Chapter?

A:      Chapters are groups of individuals from fields of education, industry, government, and nonprofits, all with the same vision in mind: to work with Texas K-12 students to strengthen female and minority representation in STEM professions. 

Q:      How are TAME Chapters formed?

A:      The TAME Board of Directors (BOD) has authority to charter chapters based on criteria established for that purpose.  If a chapter fails to uphold the criteria as established and reviewed by the BOD, it may be dissolved by a BOD majority vote.

Q.      How are Chapters started?

A.      Click here for a step-by-step procedure for starting a TAME Chapter.

Q:      What is required of an active TAME Chapter?

A:      Requirements include:

• Implement community-based activities and events that support the TAME vision and mission
• Provide data annually that:
• Is in compliance with 501(c)3 tax exempt status
• Is required for audits and donor reporting
• Adhere to Policies and Procedures as specified by TAME Board of Directors and TAME Handbook including:
• Submit all certification and year-end paperwork (if applicable) prior to August 31 of each academic year
• Participate in annual Chapter Certification Conference Call
• Attend the Fall Conference/Leadership Workshop
• Participate in at least two of the following state sponsored programs:
• Poster Contest
• Essay Poster Contest
• T-shirt Design Contest
• Math/Science Contest
• Trailblazer event (usage fees required)
• Statewide Scholarship Program
• Include the words “a Chapter of TAME, Inc” directly under the name and/or logo of local Chapter in all printed communications
• Submit Requests for Payment (RFPs) to the state office for any expenses that need payment or reimbursement
• RFPs submitted by the chapter for services rendered by an individual must include a completed W-9
• Ensure that all donations be made to TAME, Inc. and forwarded to the state office for 501(c)3 tax exempt status. 

                   
Q:      How are local Chapters funded?

A:      Local Chapters are responsible for soliciting funds with the understanding that while funds are deposited with TAME, Inc., they are used for the purpose solicited. Compliance is mandatory based on TAME Standard Business Practice & Compliance Policy.  In addition and whenever possible, TAME works with donors and chapters to provide financial and in-kind resources that directly support local chapter programs.

Q:      What are the responsibilities of the State Office?

A:      The State TAME Office:

• Deposits and disperses funds
• Provides financial oversight and maintains tax exempt status
• Provides organizational administration
• Coordinates State-sponsored events
• Provides communication hub
• Provides training for procedural compliance
• Updates and maintains web with links to local Chapters
• Coordinates fundraising to ensure organizational sustainability
• Coordinates Board member meetings
• Provides news and opportunities to members and students
• Provides quality assurance and oversight of events and programs

Q:      How does becoming a TAME Chapter benefit our organization?

A:      Chapter benefits include:

• 501(c)3 tax exempt status
• Trailblazer trailer visits at reduced fee
• Insurance coverage for up to three local events with 250+ participants
• Eligibility to invite student participation in Statewide Poster Contest, Essay/Poster Contest, T-shirt Design Contest, Statewide Scholarship Program, and Statewide Math & Science Competition at no cost (per guidelines in TAME Handbook)
• Networking and learning opportunities
• Leadership, teamwork, mentoring and problem-solving experiences
• Board representation
• A cash award of $150 for each first place won by a student participating in state-sponsored Poster, T-shirt Design, or Math/Science Contests
• Inclusion in “Each One Reach One” partnership program to assist in achieving individual Chapter goals through collaboration and shared efforts and ideas

Q:      Who is responsible for leadership of the local Chapter and what are his/her responsibilities?

A:      Each Chapter selects a Chair and a Treasurer.  The Chair (or alternate appointed individual) serves as Chapter Board Representative and participates in all state board-related activities and meetings. While the Chapter Board Representative is not obligated to satisfy board member fiscal requirements (including in-kind contributions), participation is encouraged.