Student Organization Handbook
“An empowered organization is one in which individuals have the knowledge, skill, desire and opportunity to personally succeed in a way that leads to collective organizational success.”
–Stephen Covey, “Principle-centered Leadership”
“Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better.”
–Harry S Truman
“The quality of an organization can never exceed the quality of the minds that make it up.”
–Harold R. McAlindon
Thank you for offering your time, energy and talents to Northeastern University by being involved in student organizations. Involvement is one of the best ways to experience a practical education, improve your resume, and meet people who will impact the rest of your life.
This handbook can help your organization thrive at NU. Whether you are just starting an organization or continuing a campus tradition, this handbook will help you find the “how-to’s” for success.
As a student organization leader, you are responsible for knowing and following the policies and procedures in this handbook. If you are uncertain about a policy, our One-Stop Suite should be your first stop for information and assistance.
Policies and procedures articulated in this handbook were current as of fall 2007, and are subject to change. Notice of major changes are generally distributed to student organizations via the student organization mailbox system or e-mail, and also updated online here. Minor changes may be made without formal notification.
Index:
Chapter I. Curry Student Center
Student Center Mission Statement
One-Stop Suite
Other Offices in the Student Center
Curry Student Center Directory
Student Governing Boards and Committees
Chapter 2. Organization Recognition
Recognized Organizations
Privileges of Recognition
How to Become Recognized
Maintaining Recognition
Officer Eligibility
Organization Suspension
Inactive Status
Probation and Withdrawal
Chapter 3. Event Planning
Definition of an “event”
Events Requiring Travel
Planning Your Event
Contract Procedures
Entertainment
Alcohol Policies
Guest Admissions and Advertising Policies
Demonstrations and Gambling
Dances/other Celebrations
Food Policy
Wrapping Up an Event
Safety Guidelines for Events
Top 10 things every planner should know
Chapter 4. Running Your Organization
Officer Responsibilities
Conflict of Interest
Recruiting and Retaining Members
How to Hold a Meeting
Tips for Successful Leaders
Leadership training/LEGO
Anti-hazing Policy
Your organization advisor
Organization Resources
Student Life Awards
Timeline for Student Organization Planning
Chapter 5. Facilities & Services
Reserving space
Curry Student Center facilities
Decorating the Student Center
afterHOURS
Other Services provided within the Curry Student Center
Interpreting Services
Overview of available spaces
Facilities outside of the Student Center
Web Space for Student Organizations
Chapter 6. Publicity & Promotion
Publicity guidelines
Posters, fliers, and posting locations
Publicity ideas
Student media
Chapter 7. Finances & Fundraising
Student Activities Business Office (SABO)
Bank accounts
Treasurer and advisor responsibilities
Funding sources
Fundraising and solicitation policy
Outside vendors
Depositing your money
Spending guidelines
Reimbursements
Purchase orders
Payment to another student group
Stop payments
Procurement card
Transfers and direct charges
On-campus preferred vendors
Food and catering
Travel expenses and vehicle rentals
Capital equipment and computer purchases
Budget Review Committee/BRC overview
Chapter 8. Greek Life
Greek Life mission statement
Greek governing document
Recognition/reactivation of culturally based groups
Some material in this handbook is adapted from the University of Michigan Student Organization Development Center Survival Manual for the Student Leader, the Mankato State University Student Organization Handbook, and the University of Cincinnati Resource Book, all with permission.
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NU does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, religious creed, genetics, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, veteran status or disability status. Moreover, NU will not ignore any form of discrimination or harassment, including sexual harassment. Nor will NU condone any form of retaliatory activity against any person who brings a complaint of discrimination or harassment, or who cooperates in a complaint investigation.
