Our by laws pretty much says what JHB's say. (I can't figure out how to do quotes).

I felt pretty useless as a VP, that was my own fault. I showed up at every function ready and raring. Perhaps that is why I needed a break a couple of years ago. The best advice I have is ask the pres what she expects of you. Communication is vital(in most everything). I felt my VPs and other board members were a team and it was fun to sit and plan everything with them.

I agree the VP spot can be an interesting one or a boring one.
I have been EVERY position on our board (including VP). At our school it is in our standing rules (NOT BY-LAWS) the VP shall be the Fall Fundraising chair. This gives the VP a leadership role from the get-go.
The VP is also automatically included in the budget committee (along with the President and the Treasurer). This is important- because if you are just thrust into the job, you need to know how the money works.
It is also understood (although not in standing rules or by-laws) that the VP is in line to be President eventually. Not all of our VPs have followed through with this, but it has been a great time to train, learn all the ins and outs BEFORE they are nominated. If they found out (over the year) it is not for them, better to find out now, than when you are President!.
Bottom line- meet with your President and find out what their expectations are of you, and also let them know what YOU would like your role to be (are you interested in putting together programs? etc.).
NOW is the time to find out. Be assertive, and ask questions- don't wait for people to come to you.
Remember, You are a valuable member of the board!

It depends on your bylaws, but here's one sample. The VP shall:
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• 1.Act as an aide to the President.</font>
• 2.Perform the duties of the President in the absence or inability of that officer to serve.</font>
• 3.Assume other responsibilities as assigned by the Executive Board.</font>
• 4.Coordinate the general activities of any Special Committees created by the Executive Board.</font>

The VP position is an interesting one. One extreme (which I hope you avoid) is to serve as a perpetual understudy, doing very little unless the president is absent and you serve as a substitute. The other extreme is when the VP tries to act like a co-president and fights the President for power.

Hopefully, you'll find a more balanced role.

Yes, one of your key roles is to fill in when the president isn't avaialble. But it's also good to have some concrete responsibilities. You might take over a particular project or committee. You might divide up some of the organizational responsibilities so everything doesn't fall to the President.

The best thing is to sit down with the President and figure out what each of your strengths and weaknesses are (wonderful with people, fabulous organizer, great computer skills, etc.) Look at the goals the group has to accomplish and how you can best put your skills to work assisting the president and the organization.

Tonight I was elected VP for the new school year. They wanted me to be president, I wouldn't go for it. I don't even know what the vice president does. So, what do I do anyhow? Thanks!