Member Emeritus

Member Emeritus

Overview

The Member Emeritus designation is conferred as an honorary recognition for individuals whose careers reflect extraordinary service and commitment to the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) and the construction industry. While eligibility criteria are defined in CSI’s Bylaws, the recognition process shall elevate Member Emeritus status to emphasize distinction, honor, and service beyond tenure.

Member Emeritus status is conferred by the CSI Board of Directors following formal review and approval.

Upcoming Member Emeritus Nominations - Coming Soon

The off-cycle nomination window opens Wednesday, April 1.

Submit nominations by Thursday, April 30, at 12:00 PM ET.

Review the information below before submitting. Use the official nomination form to apply. A sample form is available to help you prepare your materials.



Eligibility

  • Candidates must meet Bylaws requirements:
    • 15 consecutive years as a Professional Member in good standing.
    • Minimum age of 70 years.
    • Recommended for change in status by their chapter by documented application to the CSI Board Secretary. 
  • In addition, candidates should demonstrate three or more of the following:
    • Significant leadership roles within CSI (chapter, region, or national level).
    • Documented contributions to advancing CSI’s mission (e.g., publications, standards development, certification, education).
    • Mentorship of CSI members and support of emerging professionals.
    • Active advocacy for the AECO industry.
    • Recognition by peers for exemplary service or innovation.
This designation is not automatic based on age or years of service. It requires documented distinction.



Nomination Process

Who May Nominate

  • CSI chapters or members submit nominations. 

Required Submission Materials

Applications must include:

  • Completed Member Emeritus Submission Form
  • Chapter board meeting minutes documenting the motion recommending the candidate
    • Sample Motion Language: Motion to recommend [Full Name, CSI/FCSI] for designation as Member Emeritus in accordance with CSI Bylaws and policy.
  • Narrative describing contributions in at least three qualifying categories
  • Current CV or résumé
  • Three to five letters of endorsement from CSI members, peers, or colleagues 



Review and Approval

Awards Committee Review
  • The Awards Committee will review Member Emeritus nominations annually, in accordance with the schedule and process for submissions established by the Board.
  • The committee evaluates nominations against Bylaws criteria and service criteria and may request additional documentation or references.
Board Approval
Members Emeritus are elected by an affirmative vote of at least 85 percent of Board members present at a Board meeting. 



Term and Status

  • Lifetime designation upon Board approval
  • No annual dues required
  • Retains membership in CSI
  • Recognition remains subject to CSI member standards of conduct
  • Status may be revoked by the Board of Directors 
Members Emeritus do not assume governance, fiduciary, or voting responsibilities. They may be invited to serve in advisory or ambassadorial roles. 



Recognition

Approved Members Emeritus:
  • Are recognized at CSI Celebrates
  • Are acknowledged in CSI communications
  • May use the title “Member Emeritus” as a suffix following CSI or FCSI 
Example:
Jane Smith, FCSI, Member Emeritus



Annual Submission and Review Timeline

Standard Annual Cycle
Member Emeritus nominations follow an annual fall submission cycle.
  • Submission Period: Each fall, during the official window published by CSI.
  • Awards Committee Review: Conducted following the close of the fall submission period.
  • Board Action: Recommendations are presented to the CSI Board of Directors for election at the CSI Winter Board Meeting. 
All complete applications received during the fall window will be reviewed in that cycle.



Transitional Cycle: 2025–2026

Due to the pause in applications beginning August 2025, CSI will implement a one-time transitional cycle.
  • Off-Cycle Submission Period: The off-cycle nomination window opens Wednesday, April 1. Submit nominations by Thursday, April 30 at 12:00 PM ET.
  • Awards Committee Review: Completed prior to the CSI June 2026 Board Meeting
  • Board Action: Recommendations presented to the CSI Board of Directors at the June 2026 meeting
Following the June 2026 Board meeting, the process will return to the standard annual fall submission cycle.
The off-cycle nomination window opens Wednesday, April 1. Submit nominations by Thursday, April 30 at 12:00 PM ET.

Sample Form - link coming soon

Submit Nomination - link coming April 1