University of Northern Iowa
Student Organization Advisor Agreement Form
The University of Northern Iowa (UNI) requires that each registered student organization have an advisor who is a faculty or staff
member. Student organizations are free to choose their own advisors, pending registration of advisor contact information with the
Student Involvement Center.
Student organizations are initiated, developed and run by their student members. Advisors provide support and guidance, while
students provide the primary leadership and initiative for programs, events and activities. Advisors serve as an important resource
for student organizations, providing the foundation for long-term stability, growth and development. The specific responsibilities of
the advisor may vary depending upon the nature of the student organization. Each advisor’s personal style will also affect the
degree of involvement he or she has with the group. It is important that the student organization’s leadership and the advisor work
together to develop a mutually agreed upon understanding of the role and expectations of the advisor.
Advisor Responsibilities
It is important that advisors understand the responsibilities involved before making a commitment to the student organization.
Those responsibilities include:
• Maintain an awareness of the activities and programs sponsored by the student organization
• Assist the student organization in accessing University services, and review and approve (as appropriate) any required
University paperwork
• Report all student organization travel as required by the University Student Travel Policy.
Additional responsibilities that advisors should discuss with their students, depending on the organization’s needs, may include:
• Meet with student organization leaders to discuss upcoming meetings and programs, long range plans, goals, and problem
solving
• Attend general and executive board meetings as often as possible
• Assist the student organization in monitoring and adhering to the budget
• Assist with officer transition and new officer training
• Explain and clarify University policies and procedures that apply to the student organization
• Communicate with the student organization regarding appropriate behavior on the part of the members and possible
consequences of unacceptable behavior
• Be familiar with the national structure and services provided by affiliated bodies (e.g. national organizations of Greek
organizations), if relevant
Student Organization’s Responsibilities to the Advisor
• Notify the advisor of all meetings and events
• Consult the advisor in the planning of projects and events, and before any changes in the structure or the policies of the
organization are made, and before major projects are undertaken
• Allow the advisor speaking privileges although he/she is not allowed a vote
• Acknowledge that responsibility for the success of the organization lies solely with the members of the student organization
• Discuss concerns and issues with the advisor
• Acknowledge the advisor’s time and energy are donated, and express appreciation for his/her support
• Be clear and open about expectations of the advisor and periodically review these expectations with the advisor
• Insure that student organization information is updated in Student Involvement Center records
Clery Act Role and Responsibility
Due to your role as a student organization advisor, you are considered by law to be a “Campus Security Authority” (CSA) for the
university. As a CSA, you are required to immediately report any Clery Act crimes that you are made aware of to the UNI
Department of Public Safety. Additionally, you are required to complete CSA training annually.
Advisor Agreement
I agree to be the advisor of the ________________________________________________________. I recognize the duties of an
advisor and agree to fulfill the above responsibilities.
Name:__________________________________________________Date:_____________________
Signature:_________________________________________________________________________