One of the best things about Rensselaer’s Student Union is the number of activities that it supports. The Union recognizes over 140 clubs and organizations, while funding nearly 100 of them. Currently, there are several new clubs that are forming and looking to be recognized by the Union.
I receive many requests from students who are looking to start a new club. For those who are wondering, I will outline the steps that a club must go through in order to be formally recognized by the Union.
You first must gather a group of students who are interested in this new organization, to show that the organization currently has and will continue to have future membership. While working with the Constitution Committee of the Union Executive Board, the forming club would develop a club purpose which must be approved by the E-Board. The statement of purpose is an underlying statement that encompasses the club’s goals and objectives. After the club’s purpose is approved, it is now recognized by the Union, and is given access to the resources and services provided by the Union. If appropriate, the club may ask for Union funding. This requres the club to complete a starter budget. The club must also justify how the funding would add value to the club.
I would like everyone to keep in mind that funding of clubs is subsidized through each student’s activity fee dollars. For that reason, I encourage everyone to take advantage of the activity fee and become involved. As you see, if you have a particular interest that you cannot find offered through the Union, it is simple enough to form your own club. The Union is open to offering a variety of clubs and organizations so that each student can find something to fit his interests. To contact the chair of the Constitution Committee, e-mail Khaoula Benghanem at benghk2@rpi.edu.
For those who are already involved in clubs, I would like to highlight a few dates that will be important. Our budget timeline has been established—preliminary budgets will be due November 21, and final budgets are due December 19. The E-Board reps will be working closely with the clubs to provide support and direction during the budgeting period. One of the prime responsibilities of the E-Board is to coordinate budgeting, which will take place right after winter break. All clubs are encouraged to check out the new online budgeting module, which will be presented by our system administrators, tonight at 9 pm in Union Room 3602.
If you’re looking for something to keep you busy this weekend, there is plenty to do as always. The RPI Players will present Lend me a Tenor on Friday and Saturday at 8 pm, as well as Sunday at 2 pm. Black Student Alliance Night of Free Expression will be held on Friday in the McNeil Room.
