Which term refers to the formal status of belonging to an organization, including governance rights?

• A. Membership
• B. Member
• C. Association
• D. Fellowship

Answer: (A)

Membership is the formal status of belonging to an organization, and that status carries governance rights such as voting, eligibility for office, and participation in decision-making. It isn’t just being part of a group; it defines what privileges and responsibilities come with being part of the organization. A member is the person who holds that status. The term association refers to the organization itself, not the status of belonging. Fellowship can denote camaraderie or a special designation in some groups, but it does not universally denote the formal governance rights that come with membership.