Privileges and Expectations of Student Organizations

Reason for Policy

Recognizing that there are a wide variety of student organizations that offer a vibrant and compelling student experience, the privileges and expectations outlined below are shared by all student organizations on campus and will serve as a framework to create positive and meaningful contributions to campus. Student organizations will continue to adhere to department-specific requirements and obligations in addition to these expectations.

Affected Parties

All Undergraduates

Policy Statement

Mission Statement

Dartmouth College educates the most promising students and prepares them for a lifetime of learning and of responsible leadership, through a faculty dedicated to teaching the creation of knowledge.

Privileges of Recognized Student Organizations

Recognized student organizations have the right to:

  • Use the name of Dartmouth College in the activities and publications of the organization and to be the recognized representative of the College at all functions in which the organization participates as outlined in the guidelines specified by the Office of the General Counsel.
  • Utilize the facilities, property, and services of Dartmouth College.
  • Reserve space in College buildings and on College grounds.
  • Request funding through various College funding sources.
  • Apply for and maintain an email account.
  • Apply for and utilize a Dartmouth.edu domain name.
  • Maintain a College chart string and use the College financial system to make financial transactions.
  • Safe residential/programmatic environments.

Expectations for Organization Management

Each organization must:

  • Have a clearly stated purpose and mission statement that aligns with and supports the mission of Dartmouth College. In its mission statement, each organization must have a learning component and either a leadership or intellectual component.
  • Have an updated constitution or governing document that includes a mission statement, expectations of membership, criteria for member and leader selection, a non-discrimination clause, a process for resolving disputes, criteria for the removal of members and leaders, and the Dartmouth hazing policy.
    • The criteria used for member and leader selection must reflect the values and mission of the organization.
    • The expectations for members must align with the mission of the organization.
  • Report its leadership and membership roster.
  • Set and submit annual goals that are in line with and further their mission.
  • Submit a detailed event and fiscal management plan in line with the mission and purpose of the organization.
  • Have a faculty or staff advisor.
  • Maintain an active Engage account.

Ongoing Expectations

Organizations are expected to contribute positively to the Dartmouth community and conduct themselves in ways that do not reflect poorly on Dartmouth. In doing so, organizations should be cognizant of the following:

  • Organizations will abide by federal, state, and local laws as well as College policies and procedures both on- and off-campus.
  • Student organizations are expected to enhance students' physical, intellectual, emotional, and mental well being through perpetuating the values and principles of the Dartmouth community.
  • Organizations will contribute to an inclusive environment, including but not limited to events, activities, and organizational management.
  • Student organization activities and spaces must be physically safe and support the health and well-being of guests and members.
  • Leaders of organizations will seek out relevant training opportunities and resources.
  • Organizations will comply with college policies regarding the execution of contracts, advertising, printing, and apparel design.
  • Organizations must use their funds responsibly and for the purposes for which they were intended.

Effective Date

July 1, 2015

Office of Primary Responsibility