Student Organization's Advisor Role

The Role of the Advisor

An advisor or student may wonder why a student organization would need a faculty or staff advisor. Besides being a requirement of Texas Tech University registered student organizations, advisors provide organizations with assistance and advisement in many areas.

Feedback

• serve as a "sounding board" to listen to new ideas
• provide an outside perspective or view
• give honest feedback to group members for personal growth and development

Support

• provide support to the organization
• help deal with organizational crises

Intervention

• intervene, when appropriate, in conflicts between group members
• run "interference" with the university community when necessary

Historical Reference

• be knowledgeable of university policies that may impact the organization
• provide continuity and stability in student leaders transition

Policies

• oversee adherence to University standards and rule
• oversee adherence to the organizations constitution and by-laws

Co-sign Expenditures

• must co-sign all checks or vouchers of SGA funds

Connections

• provide the group with connections to other people and to campus resources

Responsibilities of Group Members to the Advisor

Inform

• discuss expectations of the advisor's role with the advisor
• notify the advisor of all meetings
• send the advisor a copy of all minutes
• meet regularly with the advisor to discuss organizational matters
• relay and update information

Discuss

• consult with the advisor before any changes in the structure or policies of the organization are made and before major projects are undertaken
• understand the advisor has no vote, but he/she has speaking privileges

Evaluate

• remember that the success or failure of an organization or project rests with the group, not the advisor
• give feedback to let them know how they may improve advisement.