Voluntary Student Organization (VSO) Overview & Recognition

A Voluntary Student Organization (VSO) is a student organization composed of 100% Oregon State University students that contributes to the mission and culture of the University. These organizations are recognized by the Student Events & Activities Center (or designee).  The activities, events and operations of these organizations are not classified as official university business and do not represent the University unless an activity or event is sponsored by a University unit through an Event Sponsorship Agreement.   VSOs have access to or may apply for certain University-controlled benefits and resources.  VSOs are accountable to the University for legal compliance, fiscal responsibility, risk management and adherence to established community standards. 

In order to be recognized as a Voluntary Student Organization, the organization must be under the direction and control of OSU students,  meet the University’s standard of care for all activities and events held on the Oregon State University campus and:

  • Complete the registration process on an annual basis that includes:
    1. Submit an annual Organization Information Form.
    2. Submit club constitution/governing documents and any revisions.
    3. Agree to comply with Standards of Conduct for Recognized Student Organizations and maintain accountability for University policies, procedures and guidelines (this is built into the Organization Information Form).
    4. Complete Risk Assessment. 
  • Maintain 100% OSU student membership and roster of currently active OSU student members through the online data system. 
  • Maintain a minimum of 4 currently enrolled OSU students.
  • Maintain good standing with the University, all governing boards within the University to which the organization belongs and all chartering, sponsoring or governing organizations with whom the organization affiliates.
  • Student organization leaders must annually complete University base-line training.
  • Complete event sponsorship agreements and report all events and  travel  sponsored by the University through the Student Organization Data Base a minimum of 30 days in advance of the event or travel.

As a member of any student organization at the University, you are expected to maintain alignment with the University mission and exemplify the principles of honesty and integrity, and respect of diversity.  As a member of the OSU community, you are expected to uphold University policies, procedures and guidelines, always acting in good faith when conducting your organizational business.  Further, you are expected not to misrepresent the mission, purpose or goals of your organization nor the influence (direction and control) by non-members on your organization or its activities and events.  By upholding the OSU Student Conduct Regulations (OAR Chapter 576, Division 15 - http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/pages/rules/oars_500/oar_576/576_015.html),  adhering to OSU policies, and - where applicable - upholding all Sponsorship Agreements, you will further a positive reputation for your student organization and student organizations in general, and continue to be a student organization in good standing and of great value to Oregon State University.

 

The full Student Organization Policy & Procedure Manual (SOR) may be found online at http://oregonstate.edu/fa/manuals/sor/001