Club and Organization Advisor

MeetingNovember 20, 2015

Objectives

Discuss role and support for advisors

Go over basics for the club processes, important dates for clubs and organizations

Discuss where advisors can help the clubs and where they need to just assist the clubs (Examples, reserving space on campus) and go over resources and policies

Gain feedback for our areas on what you would like to see to support you moving forward

Provide a resource for the advisors to reach out to if they have questions

Here are just a few of the benefits of advising student groups:

A unique opportunity to get to know and mentor students outside the classroom or office

The chance to see students develop their individual skills and talents The opportunity to informally share knowledge and expertise on topics that you are passionate about

An opportunity to feel satisfaction and accomplishment through making a special contribution to campus as well as to a particular group of students

The Attributes of a Good Advisor

Aware:  Knows what is happening with the group at all times, including all group meetings, travel and events.

Dedicated:  Always willing to assist the organization when necessary.  Enjoys being associated with the group and is involved.

Visible:  Attends meetings, social functions and other special events of the group when possible.

Informed:  Familiar with the rules, policies and regulations of the University and the bylaws of the organization constitution.  Is prepared to assist with interpretations.

Supportive:  Provides encouragement and praise to group members.

Open-Minded:  Willing to consider new ideas and approaches even if not in complete agreement.

Respected:  Earned through being trustworthy and honest as well as demonstrating a genuine interest in the welfare of the group.

How Advisors Support Student OrganizationsOrganizational Maintenance

Ensuring organizational continuity by periodically reviewing the constitution, minutes, files, and/or traditions with students.

Serving as a resource for students, especially regarding University policies, regulations, and procedures.

Coaching the officers in the principles of good organizational and administrative practice.

Helping and encouraging officers to fully register their group each academic year.

Organizational Growth

Keeping the group focused on its development and goals.

Remembering and assisting groups as they develop and mature.

Pointing out new opportunities, perspectives and directions to the group.

Developing self-discipline and responsibility among group members.

Motivation

Attending organizational meetings, retreats, and events whenever possible.

Remaining as available as possible to assist the organization.

Supplying expert knowledge and insight through experience.

Providing problem-solving suggestions serving as a role model for creative decision-making and flexibility, because problems can create stressful circumstances for students.

Support all areas of student organization engagement especially through direct interaction. This practice may vary from organization to organization, based on the group’s needs and goals.

Each year, the student leadership of the organization and the advisor should meet to determine the role and expectations of the advisor and the advisor’s expectations of the students.

Advisor Roleo Being familiar with the club/organization’s history, lending continuity

o Being aware of the purpose and activities of the club/organization through attendance at club/organization meetings OR through bi-weekly consultation with the leaders. Building trust with the organization and setting guidelines for the advisors role.

o Acting as a source of general information regarding College policies and procedures.

o Encourage members to assume responsibility for their actions and effectiveness of their programs.

o Guiding while at the same time allowing freedom for members to plan and coordinate their own activities and programs by role modeling leadership

o Providing special technical knowledge or information relevant to the needs of the organization through your own expertise

o Encouraging students to complete student activity fee processes in a timely manner

Policies and Support

Bengal Connect

Student Life

USG

Title IX

I <3 Consent Training

Buffalo State Food Pantry

Advisor Resources

Student Life website

Advisor Handbook

Mailboxes for organizations

USG on the fourth floor of the Union, hallway

Student Life and Greek organizations in 400 CAMB

Open Discussion

Concerns, thoughts, questions and suggestions

Next meetings

Coaching Training for Advisors: December 11, 2015

Next meeting February 2016

Specified Group Discussions

USG

Student Life

Greek Life