Affiliate Organizations: To form a council, you need the support of at least six (6) Student Affairs recognized clubs that agree to affiliate with your council. This affiliation demonstrates a collective commitment to the council’s mission and goals. Each club must formally approve this affiliation, ensuring that all parties are aligned and supportive of the council’s objectives. Campus Life will assist in facilitating the approval of affiliates via the Affiliate Recognition Form.

Council Name: When forming a Campus Life Council, it’s important to choose a name that reflects your organization’s identity while adhering to university guidelines. It should also include the word Council to help identify the organization and differentiate it from a recognized club.

Leadership Structure: A strong leadership team is crucial for the success of any council. At a minimum, your council must have a President, Vice President, and Treasurer. These roles are essential for ensuring effective governance, financial management, and strategic planning.

Advisor: Every council must have an advisor who is a current, permanent, faculty or staff member at RIT. This advisor plays a pivotal role in guiding the council and providing expertise around the mission and goals of the organization. Additionally, Campus Life will assign a Campus Life Administrative Advisor to offer further support and resources to ensure that the council’s activities align with university policies and all student club and organization processes and guidelines.

Recognition Process: The council must establish a clear process for recognizing affiliate organizations. These organizations must be officially recognized by RIT and stand in good standing. This process ensures that all affiliates are credible and committed to the council’s mission.

Alignment with Mission and Goals: All affiliate organizations must align with the council’s mission and goals. This alignment ensures that the council and its affiliates work synergistically towards common objectives, fostering a cohesive and supportive community.

Representation: Affiliate organizations must have the opportunity to be represented on the council, either through the executive board or the council organization. This representation ensures that affiliates have a voice in council decisions and activities, promoting inclusivity and collaboration.

Funding Proposal: Councils are required to submit a detailed funding proposal outlining their intended use of funds. This proposal should include plans for supporting affiliate needs, organizing events, and other activities that align with the council’s mission.

Funding Allocation: Upon recognition, Campus Life will determine the appropriate funding levels to support the council’s activities in the first year and beyond. This funding is crucial in enabling the council to operate effectively and achieve its goals.

Budget Management: Councils must work closely with their advisor and the Campus Life Senior Financial Assistant to maintain and manage their budget. This collaboration ensures that funds are used responsibly and in accordance with university policies. All funding requests and expenditure must follow standard Campus Life Club budget rules.

Event Policies: Councils must adhere to all Student Club and Organization Events policies and procedures. This adherence ensures that all events are safe, well-organized, and compliant with university regulations.

Support for Affiliates: Councils should actively support their affiliates’ programs through marketing, co-sponsorship, and representation. This support helps amplify the impact of affiliate events and fosters a sense of community and collaboration.

Written Constitution: Every council must have a fully written constitution that outlines its structure, purpose, and operational procedures. An example of a constitution can be found here.