Understand that clubs/organizations are student-led and are great ways for students to develop leadership and management skills
Encourage students in the group to have critical discussions around issues related to the club’s/organization's purpose and lend your voice when necessary
Develop a working relationship with student leaders and establish expectations of both students and advisor
Have regular contact with student leaders to stay on track of club business and attend meetings in accordance with students’ expectations and club rules/bylaws
Become familiar with the group’s governing documents (i.e. constitution, bylaws) and ensure student leaders work in accordance of these frameworks
Introduce new members and elected leaders to the history and mission of the club or organization
Work proactively with student leaders on addressing internal club issues, and relaying concerns to Student Engagement & Traditions (SET) or Dean of Students Office in a timely manner
Assist students in designing large events or lectures and work with University staff to ensure relevant University procedures are followed
Work with outgoing and incoming executive teams to ensure smooth transition and turning over of key information (i.e. social media passwords, banking/financial information) occurs
DON'T
Just sign paperwork and assume the group handles all matters
Be unknowledgeable on club/organization matters, including travel and hosting speakers/large events
Insert yourself into club/organization matters when not asked by student leaders or members
Force your own opinions in organizational matters or discussions (remember, student clubs/organizations are run by STUDENTS)
Handle any club financial information or manage bank accounts
Do all the work in handling club/organization registration, payments, or event planning
Ignore communication from club/organization members
Withhold information about potential hazing, bullying, harassment, or other disruptive/threatening behavior to the Dean of Students Office
Threaten club/organization with loss of recognition or funding from your department if student leaders act in accordance with governing documents and the desires of membership (Student Engagement & Traditions (SET) is the entity on campus that officially recognizes student organizations)
