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Start a Student Organization = Chartering Process

The chartering process is for those new organizations wishing to be recognized by the college as an official student organization. Any new student organization must complete the chartering process.  Being chartered gives the organization access to college funding, leadership development, and networking opportunities with other student leaders.

Follow these steps to start your organization:

one

Read the guidelines and responsibilities
two

Set up a meeting with the Coordinator of Student Organizations

Paula Englin email: penglin@calvin.edu | phone: 616-526-7509 | office: CA 129

  • Prepare to discuss ideas, your mission and goals
three

Plan a pilot meeting for interested students in which you take minutes

  • At your first meeting take attendance. There is a twelve member minimum to begin your organization.

4

Write your charter

  • You must have three leaders and your advisor's name.

5

Have your advisor fill out the advisor consent form and write a letter of recommendation for the group to receive a charter
6

Create a justified budget request

  • A budget may not be required depending on the time of year you are chartering. All new organizations starting the chartering process at the beginning of a school year receive a minimal budget for the first semester.
7

Turn in budget and charter to Paula Englin

  • The charter will go before the Student Life Committee for review and voting. They may require changes in your charter. You must wait for approval by the Student Life Committee before your organization can formally begin.

8

Submit the online goal setting form (in September)