Sponsored Student Organization (SSO) Overview & Recognition

A Sponsored Student Organization (SSO) is a student organization composed of 100% Oregon State University students that operates under the direct guidance of a sponsoring unit and is in closest relationship with the University.  Sponsored status for a student organization is a statement of recognition by Oregon State University that the student organization is a key element in helping the University realize its mission.  Sponsorship from a University unit indicates two things

1. That the University views the organization, through its efforts, as worthwhile and vital, and therefore commits itself to provide support for the organization and its endeavors.
2. While recognizing the importance of student leadership, the organization represents the University; therefore, a high level of accountability from the organization is required.

A University unit that sponsors a student organization is committed to supporting that organization’s mission and activities. These organizations are inherently linked to the University because of their role in enhancing education, representing OSU and/or presenting events that are considered an integral part of the institution. As a result of this relationship, these organizations may receive added benefits from the sponsoring unit and are held to the same level of institutional accountability as the sponsoring unit is held.

As a result of this relationship, SSOs must be approved by an executive officer, dean, director or designee of a University Department.  Sponsoring units must provide a professional staff member to act as the Faculty Advisor to the SSO.   In addition to formal advising, department support may take any of the following forms: financial support, administrative, equipment and/or University space allocation, etc.  

The activities, events and operations of these organizations are classified as official University business and considered to involve the same level of responsibility and duty of care because of their scope and perceived association with and representation of the University.  SSOs have access to certain University-controlled benefits and resources and are accountable to the Sponsoring Unit for legal compliance, fiscal responsibility, risk management and adherence to University policies, procedures and guidelines.

In order to be recognized as a Sponsored Student Organization, the organization must be in formal relationship with a sponsoring unit and:

•  Complete the registration process on an annual basis that includes:
  1. Submit an annual Organization Information Form.
  2. Complete/review a sponsorship agreement detailing the nature of the relationship with the sponsoring unit. 
  3. Submit club constitution/governing documents and any revisions.
  4. Agree to comply with Standards of Conduct for Recognized Student Organizations (this is built into the Organization Information Form) and maintain accountability for University policies and guidelines.
  5. Complete a risk assessment of the activities, events and operations of the organization.
• Maintain 100% OSU student membership and submit roster of currently active OSU student members through the online data system. 
• Maintain a minimum of 4 currently enrolled OSU students.
• Have a professional staff member from the sponsoring unit appointed/assigned as the faculty advisor.
• Maintain financial accountability to the University for all University funds received.  These funds must be maintained in a sponsoring unit, MU Funds In Trust or Foundation Account.
• 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 in addition to any other training articulated in the sponsorship agreement.
• Report any travel or events not listed in your sponsorship agreement through the Student Organization Data Base at minimum 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