Student organization advisors are integral to the success of the student leaders an the organization itself. Below are resources and information to assist advisors throughout the year.
The Role of A Student Organization Advisor
While the advisor role varies, it is always an important one. An advisor should be committed to the group's success and should never be resigned to only serve as a signatory on forms. Student organizations register annually in order to attain funding and put on events on campus. Part of this student registration process includes the officers returning a completed Student Organization Advisor Checklist where at least two officers and the advisor have an in-person discussion and come to a mutual understanding about the expectations of the advisor for the upcoming year for that organization's unique needs.
Contracting
Student organizations regularly enter into contracts for such things as speakers or performers, bus rentals, facilities rentals, and catering. A contract should be used any time there is a need for a clear understanding of responsibility, any time you are paying for a person's services or providing travel, lodging, meals, etc. for a performer/speaker, or any time any duties are being performed in exchange for payment. Students are not to sign contracts on behalf of their organization. Contracts are to be signed by an employee of the Student Activities Office or their faculty/staff advisor. You may send your students to the Student Activities Office (4th floor Union) to work on contracts if you do not feel comfortable executing contracts on their behalf. If you'd like to learn more about contracting before you begin taking on that responsibility, please contact Ashley Owen or Michelle Navas.
Officer Transition
One of the main roles of an advisor is typically to serve as a record keeper and historian. This consistent presence truly helps most during officer transition. As the advisor, you'll want to help the organization clarify its mission, give them insights into past successes and failures, help them understand their roles in their different positions, and develop goals for the year. While you are an advisor and not a member of the organization, providing an objective opinion and guidance is extremely important during transition as the advisor is often the most consistent observer of an individual organization's highs and lows.
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