USA Fencing Opens Comment on Governance Updates: 4‑4‑4 Board and Broader Chair Eligibility

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — USA Fencing today released a letter to members and a color‑coded draft of bylaw amendments that would modernize governance and invite member input over the next 45 days, with comments due Friday, Nov. 7, 2025.

At the heart of the proposal is a 4‑4‑4 Board structure: four Athlete Directors, four elected At‑Large Directors, and four appointed At‑Large Directors, with at least two of the appointed seats filled by candidates who meet independence requirements. Another key change would allow any voting Director — elected, appointed or Athlete — to be considered for Chair of the Board (under current bylaws, only At‑Large Directors are eligible).

Additional updates would strengthen the independence of the Nominating Committee, refine (but retain) the member‑petition path to the ballot, set voter eligibility to 60 days before voting opens, and make several clarifications and clean‑ups — such as SafeSport terminology and organizational references — to align with best practices across NGBs.

The Board plans to consider these proposals at its next meeting on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025.

• Letter to Members (PDF)
• Proposed Bylaw Amendments, color‑coded (PDF)

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