The commission shall consist of a group of five nationally recognized scholars with collective expertise on the life and Presidency of Jimmy Carter, the 20th century rural south, historic preservation, and the American Presidency.

The commission members shall be appointed by the Secretary for staggered terms of 3 years each. Any vacancy on the commission shall be filled in the same manner in which the original appointment was made. Any member of the Commission appointed for a definite term may serve after the expiration of such term until a successor is appointed.

Meetings of the Commission shall be called twice annually by the Secretary.