Student Organizations
Section 200: Recognized Student Organizations (RSO)
Effective: September 5, 2013
Revised: May 4, 2016

 

An SSO is a recognized student organization that operates under its own Tax Identification Number, is legally a separate entity from OSU, and functions under the guidance and sponsorship of an OSU department.  Sponsorship from a University department indicates two things:

  1. The OSU department views the organization’s efforts as an integral component of the department’s goals, and therefore commits itself to provide support for the organization and its endeavors; and
  2. While recognizing the importance of student leadership and the autonomy of the student organization, sponsorship indicates a relationship with the University; therefore, a high level of accountability from the organization and the sponsoring department is required.

As a result of this relationship, the college dean or program director of the OSU department or their authorized designee enter a written agreement with the student organization describing each party’s role, expectations and obligations, which is completed through the annual registration process overseen by the department of Student Leadership and Involvement.

In order to become recognized and maintain recognition as an SSO, the organization must:

  • Meet all eligibility criteria listed in 202: Recognition Eligibility
  • Complete the registration process on an annual basis that includes:
    • Submit an organization information form
    • Submit club constitution/governing documents and any revisions
    • Complete risk assessment
    • Complete and submit an annual sponsorship agreement with the sponsoring department
  • Conduct affairs in a lawful and ethical manner and in accordance with the OSU’s Student Code of Conduct and all other applicable OSU Standards and Policies, procedures, and applicable laws including Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
  • Report violations of the Student Conduct Code including documentation of process and outcomes
  • Maintain a roster of current members through the Student Org Database.  Ensure complete an accurate rosters are submitted by the end of week 4 of each academic term
  • Have a faculty/staff member from the sponsoring department appointed/assigned as the Faculty Advisor
  • Maintain financial accountability to OSU for all University funds received 
    • These funds must be maintained in a Funds-in-Trust Account in the Auxiliary and Activities Business Center (AABC)
  • Maintain good standing with the University, all governing boards to which the organization belongs and all chartering, sponsoring or governing organization with whom the organization affiliates
  • Submit an activity report for all activity through the Student Org Database in advance of the activity