Become a member
If you have a cumulative GPA of 3.4 or above, you’ll be invited to apply to join the Garnet Key Society. Email invitations go out in the first half of the winter term.
As part of the selection process, you’ll be asked to submit an application, including:
- a personal essay
- your curriculum vitae, reflecting your school and community involvement
- a reference letter, as required
If you are selected for an interview, the society’s recruitment chairpersons will contact you to schedule a time. If you are among the top 30 candidates, you will be invited to a cocktail reception, following which current members will choose 12 candidates to form the new cohort.
Selection criteria
You'll need to be pursuing your studies full-time and available to serve a full-year mandate starting in May.
Beyond impressive academic achievement, members of the Garnet Key Society demonstrate remarkable people skills, a solid understanding of social etiquette and a deep commitment to serving Concordia and their community.
Roles and responsibilities
Once they join the new cohort of Garney Keys, members run for one of these positions:
President
The president oversees the overall functioning of the Garnet Key Society, guiding members in their elected roles and ensuring everyone fulfills their responsibilities throughout the academic term. Additionally, the president acts as the primary liaison between the Garnet Key Society and the University's Office of the President. This involves regularly scheduled meetings to provide updates, share announcements and address any requests.
Vice-president
The vice-president supports the president in administrative tasks and steps into the president’s role in their absence. They are also responsible for managing requests for Garnet Key participation in various events and banquets. This includes communicating with requestors, confirming details, and ensuring the assigned member attends and fulfills their role effectively.
Treasurer
The treasurer manages all financial aspects of the Garnet Key Society, maintaining detailed records and ensuring fiscal responsibility. This includes overseeing the Society’s account, preparing the annual budget, and tracking expenses for initiatives and events. The treasurer’s mission is to safeguard the financial health of the organization.
Secretary
The secretary is responsible for preparing meeting agendas, recording minutes and tracking updates or votes from members during meetings. As the team’s key organizer, the secretary maintains all electronic records, ensures their accuracy and organization, and acts as the booking officer for scheduling meetings and booking necessary spaces.
Community project chairperson
Two chairpersons lead the community project committee, overseeing various initiatives throughout the year. These projects often include community volunteering, supporting Concordia-affiliated associations and organizing fundraisers for diverse causes.
Recruitment chairperson
Two recruitment chairpersons lead the recruitment committee, coordinating the selection process for the next Garnet Key cohort. Their responsibilities include reviewing applications, conducting interviews and organizing a cocktail event to meet and evaluate the final round of applicants.
Banquet chairperson
Two banquet chairpersons lead the banquet committee, overseeing the organization of the annual alumni banquet—the Society’s largest event of the academic year. Their responsibilities include managing all aspects of the event, from selecting the venue and catering to planning the itinerary, ensuring a successful evening of networking with Concordia administrators and Garnet Key alumni.
Marketing and communications coordinator
The marketing and communications coordinator designs graphics and manages the Garnet Key Society’s social media platforms and website, ensuring the community stays informed about the Society’s projects and announcements. They are also responsible for maintaining the Society’s online image and fostering engagement with the student community.
Outreach and alumni officer
The outreach and alumni officer serves as the primary liaison between the Society’s current cohort, its alumni network, and external partners. Responsible for securing external sponsorships and funding opportunities, they help sustain the Society’s initiatives while also planning and executing alumni events. Additionally, they review and maintain the Society’s archives, preserving historical insights to uphold and strengthen the Society’s legacy.
