The purpose of this organization is to further women's interest in science, be a support and networking group for women in science, and to provide a society for women's recognition as scientists. A scientist is eligible for active membership if qualified for membership in Sigma Delta Epsilon, Graduate Women in Science, Inc. as specified in the National Constitution and Bylaws. An active chapter member must be one who pays full chapter dues and is a full-time, officially registered graduate student, faculty or staff. At any time, at least half of the members must be graduate students.
Dues are due at the third meeting of every semester for all active members.
During the summer, additional dues may be collected from members currently residing in the area to help fund an event if the membership approves. The dues rate shall be voted on at the first meeting of the semester by the membership. A member shall be considered in 'good standing' if the member has paid dues. The officers shall constitute the Executive Committee, which will be the governing body of the chapter. The President of GWIS shall be the main contact person for this chapter both within Penn State and outside the university, preside over meetings, be responsible for notifying the membership of upcoming meetings and events, appointing heads of committees, ex-officio a member of all committees, keeping contact with their work to the extent that may be advisable, may authorize the withdrawal of funds from the treasury for the payment of obligations incurred by the chapter for such other purposes as the Executive Committee may approve, and conducting the activities of GWIS with consent of the membership.