Student Organization Policy (SSE 300-001)

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Image of the Baker College logo (Red on White background) Baker College Policy

Policy # SSE 300-001 Student Organization Policy

Responsible Oversight: VP of Student Success & Engagement

Date of Current Revision / Creation: December 12, 2025

1.0 Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the formation and operation of student organizations at Baker College.

2.0 Definitions

Academic/Professional Organization - An organization affiliated with a specific academic program or professional association, with the purpose of enhancing knowledge of a career field. Bylaws are required if affiliation with a national organization exists.

Civic Organization - An organization whose purpose is to promote civic awareness and provide opportunities for students to engage as responsible citizens.

Cultural Organization - An organization whose purpose is to promote cultural awareness and/or foster inclusivity among students.

Recreational Organization - An organization whose purpose is to provide recreational activities and opportunities for students.

Registered Student Organization (RSO) - An organization formally recognized by Baker College, consisting of currently enrolled students, established to contribute to educational, personal, or professional development.

Service Organization - An organization whose purpose is to provide service learning opportunities and community engagement for students.

Social Organization - An organization whose purpose is to provide social interaction and community-building opportunities for students.

3.0 Scope

This policy applies to all student organizations recognized by Baker College.

4.0 Policy Statement

Student organizations are an essential component of the Baker College experience. They provide opportunities for students to engage in leadership, service, cultural exchange, intellectual exploration, and social connection.

Student organizations are an essential component of the total Baker College experience. They provide opportunities for students to engage in leadership, service, cultural exchange, intellectual exploration, and social connection. Baker College recognizes the value of student organizations in:

Advancing service learning opportunities that benefit the community.
Promoting professional ideals and standards.
Supporting intellectual development, in areas that complement classroom learning.
Fostering personal and professional friendships, associations and networks.
Cultivating leadership skills and experiences.
Encouraging dialogue on social, economic, and cultural issues and challenges.
Advancing service learning opportunities that benefit the community.

In alignment with Baker College’s mission, student organizations are expected to operate inclusively, uphold the Student Code of Conduct, and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects integrity and respect for all members of the College community.

5.0 Procedures

Formation of a New Student Organization

A minimum of four students must express interest in forming the organization.
The primary student representative must submit an Application for New Student Organization to the Director of Student Affairs (DSA).
If the organization intends to raise funds or travel, a faculty or staff advisor must be identified.
The DSA will review the application, meet with the student representative(s), and grant, or deny the application.

Renewal of Student Organizations

Registered student organizations must submit a Student Organization Renewal Application annually annually.
Renewal applications must be submitted by the end of week three of the fall semester.
Any changes to the organization’s name, purpose, bylaws, officers, or advisor require DSA approval.

Use of College Resources

Registered organizations may request use of College facilities for meetings and events. Reservations must be submitted to the DSA or faculty/staff advisor in advance.
Approved organizations may request certain College services when available.
Student organizations are not permitted to hold independent bank accounts. All financial activity is recorded and maintained by Baker College.

Financial Support

Baker College may provide start-up funding for newly registered organizations ($200) and renewal funding for previously registered organizations ($100).
Organizations may conduct fundraising activities with prior approval from the DSA. Requests must be submitted at least five business days in advance.
All fundraising efforts must align with the mission of the organization. Funds cannot be used for licensing or board fees.
Restrictions apply to certain activities:
- Food sales are subject to health, liability and vendor contracts restrictions and require special approval from the DSA.
- Lotteries,, raffles, bingo, and similar games of chance are prohibited. See the Baker College Raffle Policy for details.
- Solicitation to outside organizations for donations is not permitted unless explicitly approved.

Collaboration and Public Presence

Registered organizations may collaborate with other recognized student organizations.
Student organizations may request a social media club account. All accounts must be authorized by the Baker College Social Media Marketing Manager, and included club advisor post and engagement ownership.
All promotional materials (signs, posters, digital media) must be reviewed and approved by the DSA prior to distribution.

6.0 Responsibilities

Organization Officers/Student Representatives

Maintain good academic standing, verified annually by the Director of Student Affairs (DSA) during the application or renewal.
Ensure accurate record-keeping, including membership information, meeting minutes and fundraising records, and provide these records to the DSA as requested.
Comply with standards and requirements established by state, regional, or national chapters when applicable.
Submit proposed changes to the organization’s name, purpose, bylaws, officers, or advisor for DSA approval prior to implementation.
Address non-compliance with organizational or external standards promptly, recognizing that organizations may be subject to suspension or disbandment following review by the DSA and campus leadership.

Student Members

Represent both their organization and the broader Baker College community.
Conduct themselves with integrity and respect.
Adhere to all Baker College policies, including the Student Code of Conduct.
Follow the guidelines and bylaws of their student organization.

Faculty Advisors

Provide guidance, mentorship, and oversight to ensure organizations remain aligned with College policies and values.
Support student leaders in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Offer advice on organizational planning, activities, and compliance with College standards.
Assist with financial oversight, travel planning, and other activities requiring faculty/staff involvement.

Director of Student Affairs (DSA)

Ensure the effective administration and oversight of student organizations.
Review and approve or deny Applications for New Student Organization.
Meet with the student representatives to discuss organizational purpose, responsibilities, and compliance requirements.
Review the Student Organization Renewal Applications annually.
Maintain, or assist in the maintenance of organizational records, including applications, renewals, and financial activity.
Review and approve communication materials (e.g., signs, posters, digital content) prior to distribution or display.
Monitor organizational finances, including deposits, expenditures, and overall account balances.
Monitor the organization’s social media accounts, when applicable.