Advisors
Role of an advisor - An advisor to a student organization:
- must be a full-time St. Cloud State University employee during the academic year in which one serves, unless otherwise approved by the University President or her/his designee.
- shall serve without pay and shall not be provided release time from other professional duties, unless otherwise indicated by the University President or his/her designee.
- represents and protects the interests of SCSU in all matters pertaining to the organization.
Advisors play a crucial role in the effective and efficient functioning of student organizations. Advisors provide professional expertise for their respective organization in the selection, promotion, production, and evaluation of the organization's activities. By sharing knowledge about the university and personal experience, the advisor can assist the organization in the conduct of its activities. In addition, valuable mutually rewarding non-classroom friendships between students and advisors can be fostered. Organization advisors are required to:
- Sign all 1400 Forms or other financial documents
- Sign organization registrationForms on an annual basis
- Grant permission to rent a college vehicle
- Notify CSOLD through the student organization database, if they have agreed to act as an advisor or are resigning as an advisor
The general concerns of the advisor are to remain constant and encompass the
following points:
- The advisor recognizes and supports participation in student organizations for its contribution to the educational and personal development of students.
- The advisor works with student organizations and should not direct the organization's programs or activities. However, advisors should be frank in offering suggestions, concerns, or ideas for the organization's discussion.
- The advisor stays well informed about the plans and activities of the group. The expectation is that advisors will attend some meetings and activities of the group and will consult frequently with the organization's officers.
- The advisor is aware of the goals and mission of the organization and helps the organization evaluate its progress.
- The advisor is familiar with the organization's history, and provides continuity for the group. The advisor should also be familiar with the constitution and/or bylaws of the organization and be prepared to assist with their interpretation.
- The advisor insures the organization's compliance with university policies and procedures. The advisor needs to be aware of the policies and procedures in this manual.
- Advisors should be aware of the general financial condition of the organization and encourage good financial record keeping. The advisor's signature is required on all financial transactions.
- The advisor should monitor how the organization functions and encourage members to fully participate, to assume appropriate responsibility for group activities, and to maintain a balance between academic activities and cocurricular commitments.
- The advisor should attempt to learn the names of the organization's members as soon as possible.
- The advisor should assist new officers in developing members' leadership skills.
- The advisor should be prepared to deal with major problems or emergencies within the organization.
- Advisors should consult CSOLD about organizational problems, plans, or changes in organizational status, when the advisor deems it appropriate.
- Advisors and organizations should continue their association as long as both parties believe the relationship is productive and mutually satisfying.
- All advisors who become aware of an allegation of a violation of University Policy, Student Code of Conduct, civil law, or criminal law on the part of their student organization must report the allegation to the CSOLD office at 320-308-3004.
