Constitution, Advisors & Coaches
Constitution Requirements
All RSO constitutions must include:
- All RSOs must comply with federal/state laws regarding discrimination, and with the University's policy of providing equal opportunity. A non-discrimination clause must be in all constitutions. Any RSO with selective membership criteria must state this criteria in their constitution. Membership selection practices may be reviewed by the Office of Student Life at any time.
- Every aspect of University life should be free from discrimination because of age, color,disability, familial status, height, marital status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex/gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, veteran status, or weight. Student housing, organizations, athletics, classes and University community facilities should be open to all who desire to participate (University Policy)
Advisor Requirements
All registered student organizations must have a GVSU Full-Time faculty or staff advisor selected. The individual must be currently employed with GVSU. An organization may choose any secondary advisor according to their constitutional requirements (i.e. Club Sport Coaches, Greek Life Chapter Alumni).
Student organization advisors are required to review the following terms and conditions regarding their involvement with student organizations. This agreement establishes the understanding that the faculty or staff member involved is aware of the policies and procedures associated with their involvement in student organizations at Grand Valley State University.
An Advisor is responsible for familiarizing themselves and the organization's members with all university procedures and policies pertaining to the organization's activity. This includes, but is not limited to, the following publications: The GVSU Student Code, RSO Handbook, Event Services Policies and Procedures, Office of Student Life Policies and Procedures, Fraternity and Sorority Manual, and the Club Sport's Policies and Procedures.
Responsibilities of an Advisor to the University
An advisor will understand and support the following responsibilities:
- The advisor to a student organization must be familiar with University policies and regulations, and the organization's policies and regulations that they advise.
- All off-campus accounts must have two signatures on their checks. It is suggested that the advisor audit off-campus accounts on a regular basis and before new executive boards begin their duties.
- The role of an advisor to a student organization is one of consultation and resource. Therefore, with the assumption and completion of the duties and obligations outlined herein, an advisor shall not be held accountable for the individual conduct of the organization's members and their activities.
- The advisor must be listed on the roster for their respective organization on LakerLink, and are encouraged to participate in any trainings offered by the Office of Student Life.
- Because scholastic success is important to the university's mission, the advisor may wish to work closely with the students concerning their academic progress.
- Organizations such as club sports, fraternities, and sororities have special needs and considerations. Advisors should become familiar with these additional policies.
- During Student Senate funded travel-related activities, participants are required to complete the Travel Release Statement. Advisors should make sure all participants review the risk of the off-campus activity and complete the release statement. Forms are available on LakerLink.
Responsibilities of Advisors to Registered Student Organizations
An advisor will understand and support the following responsibilities:
- Maintain regular contact with officers and members.
- Serve as a resource person at executive and regular meetings. Attend functions of the organization as necessary.
- Assist with the formulation and/or revision of the organization's constitution and bylaws.
- Encourage and assist the organization to plan active and significant programs, work with the officers and promote efficient and effective administration of the organization.
- Assist the treasurer in maintaining accurate accounting procedures and in formulating an annual budget, as well as individual account budgets.
- If it is necessary for an advisor to resign his or her position as advisor, he or she shall notify in writing the organization and the Office of Student Life.