BECOMING A RECOGNIZED STUDENT ORGANIZATION

Kalamazoo College encourages its students to become actively involved with college campus life. The student's satisfaction with his/her life experiences outside of the classroom greatly affects the perception of the total undergraduate experience. Within any community, there will be a broad range of interests and Kalamazoo College is no different.

There are a number of active student organizations on campus and most every student should be able to find an opportunity to become involved. Before beginning the organization recognition process, please read over the existing organizations. If you are unable to find an existing organization that fits your interests, you may begin the recognition process. Please consider the following:

Privileges of Recognition

Becoming a recognized student organization has a number of privileges. The following are College resources available to you as a recognized student organization at Kalamazoo College:

• Use of the Kalamazoo College name to identify association with the institution.
• Access to campus for recruiting, fundraising, and publicity purposes.
• Free organizational e-mail address and web site upon request.
• Access to resources provided by College departments and offices.
• Use of College facilities for meetings and events.
• Organization mailbox in the Hicks Student Union.
• Publicizing organizational activities on campus bulletin boards and kiosks.
• Opportunity to apply for student organization funding.
• Opportunity to apply for work or storage space on campus.
• Opportunity to participate in the Student Organization Fair.

Responsibilities of Recognition

The privileges of becoming a recognized student organization at Kalamazoo College are not extended without careful consideration. Once recognized, an organization may associate its name with the name of Kalamazoo College; therefore, the events and activities presented by the organization should reflect the policies and standards of the institution and contribute to the mission of the College. In order to be recognized and retain recognition status, student organizations must meet certain expectations. These expectations include:

• Operating in a manner consistent with the mission and goals of the College and the governing documents of the organization.
• Adhering to all municipal, state, and federal laws, the Kalamazoo College Honor System, Student Conduct Code, and all College policies and procedures.
• Notifying the Campus Life Department of the organizational status for the upcoming academic year. A printable overview of the student organization recognition process can be found here. Recognition must be granted before the student organization may receive the privileges stated above.
• Remaining in good standing with the College, including compliance with any conditions, stipulations, or restrictions placed upon organizational recognition.
• Keeping the Campus Life office informed of changes to organizational leadership or governing documents in a timely fashion.
• Demonstrating respect for the College community and other student organizations.
• Consulting with the appropriate College departments, offices, or representatives when planning large, unusual, or potentially complex events.
• Ensuring continuity in leadership from year to year by training newly selected leaders and maintaining good records.

Application for Recognition of New Student Organizations

Printable Application

Application deadlines and training schedule