Advisors

Philosophy on advising student organizations.

As learning laboratories for both academic and non-academic student interests, organizations provide opportunities for exploration outside of the classroom. Advisors are available to help students reach their goals, but advisors also allow students the freedom and space to develop.

Advisors are necessary to:

• Inform organizations of university polices.
• Provide continuity and an historical perspective from year to year.
• Assist in the continued development of the organization.
• Assist in officer transitions.
• Help plan large events.

A good advisor:

• Meets with organization officers on a regular basis.
• Attends programs whenever possible.
• Attends general meeting and executive meetings.
• Talks with students about expectations.
• Offers alternate points of view on issues.
• At times, challenges the group.
• Assists in retreats and goal setting.
• Assists with the budget and monetary issues, including preparation for allocation hearings.
• Has concern for the group and development of leadership among its members.
• Accompanies the group on trip and conferences whenever possible.
• Works as a partner with the Student Activities Office to promote organization success and uphold university policies.
• Cares about organization success.
• Knows when to step back.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q - As the advisor on an off-campus student organization trip (conference, event, etc.), am I liable for the actions of my students?
A - As advisors, we have a responsibility to our students, but we are not responsible for their actions. The university carries a blanket insurance policy to cover our employees and students when involved in university-related activities. Students are adults, and as such we expect them to behave like adults when representing the university. If you are aware of your students engaging in activities that are in violation of university policies or federal, state, or local laws, you do have a duty to inform them or the authorities, but you are not responsible or liable for their actions.

Q - Am I allowed to access the organizations funds?
A - Student Organizations are funded through two avenues:

1. Allocations through Student Senate from the student activity fee (not tuition or tax dollars.
2. Funds raised directly by members of the organization or dues.

As a result, the officers of the organization, generally the treasurer and the presiden, are the sole controllers of the money in their organization account. Some organizations authorize their advisors to have access to funds to help them make purchases in the best interest of their organization. We suggest having a conversation with your organization to establish expectations around organization money.