The relationship between an Advisor and a Student Organization is one of mutual commitment, dedication and value which enriches the involvement of all who participate with an organization. All registered student organizations are required to have an Advisor who is a faculty/staff member of SUNY Oswego. Students and their organizations benefit in having an Advisor because it allows them to develop a relationship with a faculty/staff member beyond the classroom with a common experience through their involvement in a student organization. Faculty/Staff members who advise student organizations are able to relate with and connect with students in a less formal setting than the classroom while still impacting student development.

Student organizations and Advisors should make a mutual agreement as to the expectations that they have of each other and the depth of relationship the organization and advisor wish to cultivate. Utilizing the Advisor Roles and Advisor Responsibilities section of this page should help set a framework for this mutual agreement. These sections are also provided to assist Advisors in seeing the importance of their role and to help student organization members gain a perspective on where their advisor is coming from as they challenge and support the organization and it’s members.

ADVISOR ROLES

Teaching & Coaching
Advisors assist in organization, officer, and membership development.

Consultation
Officers and members will consult with the advisor for their opinions on matters facing the organization.

Provide Continuity
Advisors may have the longest history with the organization and can share this perspective with new officers and members.

Counseling
Advisors can counsel the organization and it’s members on everything from policy to assistance in member’s personal lives.

Interpretation of Policy
Advisors can help officers and members interpret campus policy.

Supervisory
Advisors may assist in supervising certain projects, elections or other areas as requested by the organization.

Meeting Emergencies
Advisors can assist organizations and members in times of crisis.

Financial Supervision
Some organizations request advisors to review financial records and ask for assistance with budget development.

Social Activities
Where appropriate advisors should attend organization events and help organizations in planning events and making sure they do not violate policy.

Organization Meetings
Advisors should establish an agreement with organizations as to what meetings and events they will be attending so all parties know what is expected of them.

Scholastic Eligibility
Advisors should challenge members to keep their grades up and direct them to places that can assist them with academics.

Organizational Records
Advisors should be given copies of constitutions, agendas, minutes, calendars and organizational materials so they are aware of what is going on and so that they have records to help present and future members.

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ADVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES

The relationship of the advisor to the organization will vary according to the needs of the organization. The advisor has three major concerns:

I. Responsibility to the Organization
Assist with the development of the organization’s group dynamics

Help in the organization’s goal setting process

Guide organization to stay within it’s mission & purpose

Play the role of "Devil’s Advocate"

Be available to the organization

Serve as a liaison between the organization and the college

Link organization to it’s past

II. Responsibility to the Individuals
Assist in officer transitions

Help with needs of individuals and refer them to appropriate campus offices that can further assist them

Be available to individuals

Help individuals find balance in their involvement

Show individuals their importance in relation to the organization’s goals and success

III. Responsibility to SUNY Oswego
Represent SUNY Oswego in a responsible manner

Guide organization so that they stay within the policies and procedures of the college and all laws

Allow students to grow and make mistakes as long as no one is hurt in the process

Utilize the staff for Student Involvement in The Point, 101 Campus Center, for advice and assistance in working with your student organization

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The Point, 101 Campus Center, 315.312.5420