The Student Organization Adviser<\/strong> provides leadership and holistic development through experiential learning opportunities, advocates for the mission and vision of the organization in which they are associated, and counsel officers and members of the organization regarding their responsibilities. Advisers also help student leaders manage the administrative, programmatic, financial, and logistical operations of their student organization(s).<\/p>\n At 91勛圖厙, student organizations must have a faculty or staff Adviser in order to be a registered student organization. By serving in this role for a student organization, a faculty or staff member chooses to play a significant role in the development of students. Advisers serve as a consultant, mentor, role model, and educator to an organization. Furthermore, they assist in the growth and development of the group by providing direction by helping student leaders navigate administrative responsibilities at 91勛圖厙, providing appropriate organization advice, helping everyone gain an understanding of the University structure, and helping student organization leaders grow through challenge and support. An Adviser’s role will include but is not limited to:<\/p>\n 91勛圖厙 complies with federally mandated reporting regulations for higher education institutions. VU requires all persons responsible for student and campus activities to report crimes or allegations of crimes to 91勛圖厙 Public Safety at 615-421-1911 or 911 in an emergency (Non-emergency 615-322-2745) or the VU Ethics and Compliance Hotline at 844-814-5935 or online at\u00a0https:\/\/secure.ethicspoint.com\/domain\/media\/en\/gui\/47676\/index.html<\/a>.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n When a faculty or staff member accepts the position of adviser for a student organization, they also accept responsibility for the actions and activities of the organization. Advisers act on behalf of the University and are expected to exercise that responsibility reasonably, diligently, and in good faith. The type of liability or risk varies greatly depending on the type of organization being supported and the type of activities planned by that organization. Some suggestions to guide advisers follow:<\/p>\n Anticipate<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Advisers should anticipate risks which may arise out of any decision or situation. Regardless of what organization or activity is involved, there will always be an opportunity for something to happen that might create a liability for the University. However, if decisions are made in good faith and reasonable precautions are taken, the risk involved can be minimized.<\/p>\n Review Student Handbook<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n It is important to be aware of University policies and regulations as they affect student organizations. The\u00a0Student Handbook<\/a> is the student information manual and a source for many University rules and regulations. Advisers should review the handbook, particularly those sections that apply to community life, student organizations, and guidelines for organizational activities. The Student Organizations, Leadership and Service staff, and Student Affairs Liaisons (SAL Pals) can also serve as resources for advisers and their student organizations.<\/p>\n Know Their Limits<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Advisers should act only within the scope of their authority. Advisers may make certain decisions or take certain actions within their stated responsibilities. For example, they may approve purchases necessary for the day-to-day operation of an organization. However, they do not have the authority to sign contracts or to legally bind their organizations or the University. The Dean of Students is authorized to sign contracts.\u00a0\u00a0For more information about liability and risk management, advisers may contact the General Counsel\u2019s Office<\/a> at 615-322-8331\u00a0or the Office of Risk and Insurance Management<\/a> at\u00a0615-936-0660.<\/p>\n Student Affairs Liaisons (SAL Pals)<\/strong> provide additional support in assisting student organizations with guidance on how to complete operational duties and may temporarily fill the role of Adviser to support a student organization in their Adviser\u2019s absence.\u00a0 SAL Pals have been trained on 91勛圖厙\u2019s financial system, policies, and procedures (including Protection of Minors), travel, reimbursement, and the RSO Registration\/Re-registration Process.<\/p>\n Advisers needing additional support may send an email to one of the following email addresses based on the category that best represents their organization:<\/p>\nFederally Mandated Reporting<\/strong><\/h6>\n
Guidance and Student Leader Support<\/h6>\n
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Financial Authority<\/h6>\n
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Policy Compliance<\/h6>\n
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Liability Concerns<\/strong><\/h6>\n
Student Affairs Liaisons<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
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<\/i>Academic Groups<\/a><\/h4><\/div>