Student Organization Handbook, Conduct, and Policies
Download the entire Student Organization Handbook (PDF file, requires Acrobat)
Student Organization Handbook in sections: (PDF files)
- Table of Contents
- Chapter 1 - Introduction
- Chapter 2 - Student Organization Recognition Process
- Chapter 3 - Student Organization Advisors
- Chapter 4 - Event Planning
- Chapter 5 - Finances and Insurance
- Chapter 6 - Organization Travel
- Chapter 7 - Additional Campus Policies
- Chapter 8 - Policies for Social Fraternities and Sororities
- Chapter 9 - Volunteer Opportunities
- Chapter 10 - Student Code of Conduct/Disciplinary Procedures
- Chapter 11 - Key Resources
Some Important Policies from the Handbook:
Accountability of Officers
Although all members are personally responsible for their own behavior, a specific organization officer may be held personally accountable for the misconduct of organization members during organized organization activities
Hazing
Hazing is any activity related to a student organization which regardless of location, intent, membership status or consent of the participants, causes or is likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, mental or physical discomfort, harassment, intimidation, degradation, extreme mental stress, or otherwise compromises the dignity of the individual.
Hazing also includes any activity that compels an individual to participate in any activity which is unlawful, perverse, publicly indecent, contrary to the rules, policies, and regulations of the University, or will unreasonably impair an individual's academic efforts.
Participation in a hazing practice will result in both individual and organizational disciplinary action, including possible expulsion.
Alcohol
The possession, dispensing, and consumption of alcoholic beverages on campus is only permitted within designated facilities (Louie’s in Aztec Center and the Faculty-Staff Club) or at the special events specified below. Alcohol at an event on campus requires an Alcohol Approval Request Form with the designated University Vice President’s approval and signature. Aztec Shops has the right of first refusal and must be hired and present for the serving of alcoholic beverages. Use of such beverages is governed by the University Alcoholic Beverages Policy, copies of which are available in Aztec Center Meeting Services.
Title V (Nondiscrimination in Student Organizations)
“No campus shall recognize any student organization that discriminates on the basis of race, religion, national origin, ethnicity, color, age, gender, marital status, citizenship, sexual orientation, or disability.”
Time, Place, and Manner
The University reserves the right to establish standards of time, place, and manner for all campus activities and events occurring on campus property or in the name of the University regardless of location, and to set further requirements on the activity itself, including but not limited to size and duration, sound level, concessions, security, ticketing, EHS standards, publicity, insurance, facility rental requirements, and damage repair. See Buildings and Grounds Policy for more information.
Liability
If Student Life and Leadership determines that an event held on-campus or funded by the University is higher risk, the organization may be required to have all participants to complete a waiver form and/or provide liability insurance naming the University as an additional insured.
Food Service
Aztec Shops has exclusive rights to all food and beverage service and sales on the SDSU campus. The SDSU Department of Environmental Health and Safety has official oversight for the safe provision of food and beverage on the SDSU campus. All use of food and beverage by student organizations-- whether provided free of charge or in conjunction with sales—is subject to the rules, regulations, and approval of both Aztec Shops and EHS. Food and beverage of any sort may not be provided to the public or in conjunction with official events without the written approval of both Aztec Shops and EHS.
Public Performance Rights
It is unlawful for student organizations to show films to its members. Student organizations must obtain a public performance license. It is relatively easy and usually requires no more than a phone call. Fees are determined by such factors as the number of times a particular movie will be shown, how large the audience will be, etc.
Tax ID
A Tax ID Number or EIN (Employer-ID number), is like a social security number for your organization. Student Organizations are often in situations that require a Federal Tax ID Number (opening an organizational bank account, conducting fundraisers off-campus, working concessions at an athletic event). No student organization is permitted to use the University's tax identification number. Its purpose is so the IRS will not make you personally responsible for taxes on revenue that you have earned.
To get a Tax ID number, you may contact the IRS and request a Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) or visit their website in order to request an EIN. Form SS-4 can be accessed online (PDF file, requires Acrobat)
The local San Diego IRS office can be contacted at (619)615-9555.
PLAN AHEAD!!! Processing may take 2-4 weeks
Donations and Sponsorships
“All gifts to San Diego State University are accepted and administered by the Campanile Foundation (TCF), an official 501(c)3 auxiliary organization of San Diego State University.”
For further information, contact Student Life and Leadership in SSW 1661 or at (619) 594-5221