Registered Student Organizations (RSOs)
Registered Student Organizations (RSOs are sometimes referred to as clubs) are typically developed around the unique needs and interests of WSU Vancouver students. As a significant part of campus life, they provide opportunities for student leadership, involvement and contribute to developing our campus culture. RSOs are for students, and directed by students. They may be unique to WSU Vancouver or be local chapters of national or state organizations. Use your creativity and energy to start, renovate, lead, or enjoy a membership position in a Registered Student Organization!
RSO Forms
- RSO Application Form (PDF)
- RSO Yearly Update Form (PDF)
- RSO Sample Constitution (PDF)
- RSO Request for ASWSUV Funds Form (PDF)
- RSO Purchasing Request Form (PDF)
- RSO Travel Request Form (PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About RSOs
- How do I start an RSO?
- What is involved in becoming an RSO?
- Is there anything that would keep an RSO from being recognized?
- Does RSO recognition last forever?
- What about RSO membership?
- How many members does it take to start an RSO?
- What responsibilities does the RSO incur when it is recognized?
- What are the privileges that come with RSO recognition?
- Are RSOs part of student government?
- Do RSOs have access to any funds?
- How do RSOs make a request for funds for a campus event?
- What are the responsibilities of the RSO advisor?
How do I start an RSO?
To become an approved student organization, you must receive University recognition through an application process. To apply, contact the Office of Student Involvement at 360-546-9527.
What is involved in becoming an RSO?
Clubs granted recognition must have a name, purpose and objectives, qualification for membership, sources of financial support, designated leadership, and a WSU Vancouver faculty or staff member as an advisor. This information is included on the Application for RSO Recognition, which can be obtained by contacting the Office of Student Involvement at 360-546-9527. The club will be notified when "recognition status" is confirmed.
Is there anything that would keep an RSO from being recognized?
Washington State University will not recognize any student organization which denies membership to any student because of race, religion, sex, color, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, or disability. RSOs must ensure that additional policies and procedures do not create de facto differentiation.
Does RSO recognition last forever?
YES, but RSOs must update their status annually. Typically this is done at the beginning of each fall term by submitting an Annual RSO Update Form. Each club is asked to submit the names of the current year student leadership and to update the name of the faculty/staff advisor.
What about RSO membership?
Full membership in RSOs will be restricted to enrolled graduate and undergraduate students at WSU. Faculty and others may participate as honorary or associate members (at the option of the group) as specified in the group's application. Only full members may be eligible to vote on matters of business or hold elected office in the organization.
How many members does it take to start an RSO?
At least five members, all of whom must be currently registered students of WSU Vancouver.
What responsibilities does the RSO incur when it is recognized?
Officers of the organization are responsible for seeing that the organization abides by University rules and regulations concerning scheduling, financial projects, advertising, etc. Second, all RSOs must have an advisor. Third, organizations must have a safety program, unless their activity has absolutely no risk to members or others.
What are the privileges that come with RSO recognition?
RSOs have the right to sponsor on-campus activities. They may also use University facilities and services by scheduling through the appropriate departments.
Are RSOs part of student government (ASWSUV)?
No. The University views RSOs as autonomous and separate from ASWSUV. RSOs do not receive state funds to operate like ASWSUV does. ASWSUV does receive funds specifically to assist RSOs plan, promote and implement campus events that are open to all students.
Do RSOs have access to any funds?
RSOs are encouraged to raise their own funds through membership dues and fundraisers. RSOs who wish to sponsor events open to the entire campus may request funding from the ASWSUV Senate using a funding request form (see your advisor or email the ASWSUV Club Coordinator at ). Funding will be determined on a case-by-case basis. The request for funding needs to come in a timely manner prior to the event. Note that ASWSUV Senate meets bi-weekly. Please see the ASWSUV website for the Senate Schedule.
How do RSOs make a request for funds for a campus event?
Complete and submit a funding request form to the ASWSUV Club Coordinator at . Two Senators need to sponsor a bill that has to be passed by the Senate. It is recommended that you be prepared to speak on behalf of the request at the Senate meeting. Since the process of allocating funds can take a month, the RSO needs to plan ahead.
What are the responsibilities of the RSO advisor?
Advisors are members of the WSU Vancouver faculty or staff whose interest in the group indicates that they would judiciously advise the organization concerning its goals, purposes, and procedures. Advisors guide the group in accordance with the purposes and ideals of the University and the organization. They do not directly control the group's programs and activities. Responsibilities may include attending RSO's meetings, assisting in program planning, supervising the handling of funds, approving expenditures and contracts, and assisting in arranging University facilities and equipment.
Further Questions?
Contact the Office of Student Involvement at (360) 546-9527