Who presides over meetings in the absence of the president?

The vice president is designated to preside over meetings in the absence of the president. This role is essential in organizations, ensuring continuity of leadership and maintaining order during meetings. The vice president typically takes on this responsibility to uphold the organization's structure and follow the rules of order, which often outline this succession of authority.

In organizational contexts, the vice president’s function is not limited to simply stepping in for the president; they also often support the president in various tasks and may have specific duties outlined in bylaws or governing documents. This responsibility highlights the importance of having a clear chain of command and preparedness within the group.

Other roles like the secretary and sergeant-at-arms have distinct responsibilities, such as keeping records and ensuring decorum, respectively, but they do not step in to lead meetings in the president's absence.