Galveston College 2023-2024 Student Organization Handbook

2023-2024

STUDENT ORGANIZATION HANDBOOK

Galveston College is committed to increasing student, faculty, staff and community engagement through academic, service, and social organizations by providing and supporting campus activities that promote:

• academic excellence

• career, leadership and professional development

• cultural, diversity and inclusion competencies

• social and leisure opportunities

Whether your organization is a well-established student organization or a newly formed club in its infancy, we are excited that you have decided to come together with other members of the campus community to focus your talents towards making Galveston College a positive learning experience for all.

In this handbook, you will find the rules and regulations that every club must follow to remain in good standing and to be deemed as a recognized Galveston College student club/organization. Lastly, all student organizations must register annually, preferably in the fall, of each academic year.

For questions, contact:

Office of Student Activities

Hermes Fitness Center, Office HC-202

Office Phone #: 409-944-1382

Email: studentactivities@gc.edu

Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Summer Hours: Monday – Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

*Please take the time to read the rest of this handbook so your organization can make the most of the co-curricular opportunities offered at Galveston College!

RESPONSIBILITIES AND RIGHTS OF REGISTERED STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of every registered student organization/club and/or its representatives to:

1. Manage the organization and carry out activities within its organization/club constitution;

2. Comply with all applicable local, state and federal laws;

3. Operate in accordance with all Galveston College regulations and policies;

4. Anticipate, provide for, and promptly meet its legitimate financial obligations;

5. Act in the best interest of the organization’s members and Galveston College;

6. Comply with all documented policies and procedures mandated by the Office of Student Activities and Galveston College;

7. Take reasonable precautions for the safety and comfort of the participants at the organization's events;

8. Immediately notify Student Activities of any changes in the organization’s officers/ representatives, addresses, telephone numbers, or constitutions by completing the proper forms. 9.

Rights

Registered student organizations may:

1. Use campus facilities.

a. Use of facilities is subject to the policies and procedures for building.

b. Use at Galveston College and are subject to the needs of the college.

2. Invite off-campus speakers, entertainers, artists and other guests to appear for scheduled meetings or assemblies.

a. All activities must be approved by the Student Activities Coordinator, Associate Vice President for Student Services, Director of Facilities Management, Director of Public Affairs, Vice President for Administration, and in some cases the President of Galveston College.

b. Fundraisers and donations must also be approved by the Director of the Galveston College Foundation.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS/CLUBS ARE LIMITED TO ONE FUNDRAISER PER MONTH.

CLUB REGISTRATION PROCEDURES

All student organizations/clubs wishing to be recognized and to receive the status of an official “registered” student organization/club by the college must apply ANNUALLY as a “Registered Student Organization.” Registration for existing organizations must be completed every FALL by September 30th , unless prior arrangements have been made with the Student Activities Coordinator and/or the Associate Vice President for Student Services. New student organizations can be created in the fall no later than October 15th and in the Spring no later than March 15th .

It is the policy of Galveston College that each registered student organization MUST have a minimum of two faculty/staff advisor(s) The Student Activities Coordinator can assist organizational representatives in identifying Galveston College faculty/staff members who may wish to serve as a(n) advisor(s).

It is the responsibility of the advisors to ensure that all organizational officers and members are knowledgeable and adhere to all policies and procedures stated in the Student Organizational Handbook. In addition, all club members must comply with the Student Code of Conduct, and the rules and regulations outlined in the Student Handbook.

At least one of the organization’s advisors must attend each event and/or meeting, from beginning to conclusion. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of the club’s officer(s) and/or representative(s) to fully and consistently inform the advisor(s) regarding meeting and event dates and times. Dates should be approved by the advisors prior to scheduling and planning meetings and/or activities.

The Student Registration Packet contains the checklist and forms required to register your student organization as a recognized student organization at Galveston College. The forms ask for basic information about the organization as well as the designation of officers/representatives to serve as the contacts for the organization. The individuals identified as officers on the forms will be the official representatives/liaisons of the organization to the Office of Student Activities. Any on-campus business must be conducted and approved by one advisor, and the club officers listed on the Officers Contact Information Form.

All officers and representatives must be currently enrolled at Galveston College taking a minimum of 6 credit hours with a 2.0 GPA (Grade Point Average). To be considered as a recognized student organization, there must be at least 10 perspective members that show an interest in seeking recognition as a Galveston College club/organization. Each Academic year, one of the officers, SGA Representative and one advisor must attend the Student Organization Orientation or meet with the Student Activities Coordinator individually to get updated on any new student organizational policies and procedures, and to certify that the officers, SGA representatives, and advisor(s) have read, understood and agreed to abide by the college, local, state and federal rules and regulations.

A complete application package must include the following forms:

1. Student Organization Registration Checklist

2. Officers Contact Information Form

3. Student Organization Membership List

4. Advisor Agreement Form

5. Hazing Agreement Policy Form

6. Constitution/Bylaws – A copy must be submitted every academic year

7. Minutes from the organization/club meeting in which officers were elected

An organization must submit the registration forms to the Office of Student Activities. Additionally, an updated copy of the Statement of Purpose and Constitution/Bylaws must be submitted annually.

Upon receipt of a completed registration packet, the Office of Student Activities will verify officers and representatives (after the census date) GPA. Following verification, the materials will then be submitted to the Associate Vice President of Student Services for final approval. The faculty/staff advisor will be notified immediately of the organization’s status.

Temporary registration is available to organizations to schedule meetings and solicit membership while establishing the group. The process requires that one currently enrolled student complete the application. The temporary registration is valid for 30 days and allows the organization to post signs and reserve space for organizational meetings and informational tables only. After the 30-day period, the group will not be recognized or allowed to recruit members until the registration process has been completed.

PROCEDURES FOR CHANGING OFFICERS/REPRESENTATIVES

When it is necessary for an organization to change officer(s)/representative(s), the advisor must email the Student Activities Coordinator the new officer information.

If the change in officer(s) and/or representative(s) results in the removal of an individual who has attended a Student Organization Orientation, at least one current member must attend an orientation or meet with the Student Activities Coordinator individually to get updated on any new student organizational policies and procedures, and to certify that the officer(s) and/or representative(s) have read, understood and agreed to abide by the college, local, state and federal rules and regulations before the changes are official.

GC STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION OFFICERS

2023- 2024

Bertrina Woodard, President

Aleah Ward, Vice President

Alicia Fletcher, Secretary

Junie Museau, Treasurer/Parliamentarian

TBD, Historian/Communication

Galveston College

Student Organization Registration Checklist

*Please note that you will not be a recognized organization until the following are completed.

To be officially recognized, the following MUST be accomplished:

□A Student Representative/Officer met with the Student Activities Coordinator. The Office of Student Activities is located in the Hermes Fitness Center, HC-202.

□Forms for Student Organization Registration are as follows:

1. Student Organization Registration Checklist

2. Officers Contact Information Form

3. Student Organization Membership List

4. Advisor Agreement Form

5. Hazing Agreement Policy Form

6. Constitution – A copy must be submitted every academic year

7. Minutes from the organization/club meeting in which officers were elected

□Read and understand Student Organization Handbook (available online)

□Hazing Policy Acknowledgement (A copy is to be attached to the registration packet and 1 copy remains on file with the club Secretary)

□Identify a Student Government Association (SGA) Representative from your organization/club that will attend SGA General Assembly Meetings

STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION MEETING DATES AND TIMES TO BE DETERMINED

SGA Representative Name: _________________

Email: ___________________________ Phone #: _______________________

A complete application packet must be returned to the Office of Student Activities, located in Hermes Fitness Center, Room HC-202.

The Student Activities Coordinator will then review your packet and award your student organization recognition for the current school year after the Associate Vice President of Student Services grants final approval.

Within 30 days of submitting the Student Organization Registration Packet, a copy of the organization’s Constitution/By-laws and Mission Statement must be submitted to the Student Activities Coordinator.

Student Organization Officers Contact Information Form

Student Organization Name

President Name: Email address:

Cell Phone #: Work #:

Vice President Name: Email address: Cell Phone #: Work #:

Secretary Name: Email address:

Cell Phone #: Work#:

Treasurer Name: Email address:

Cell Phone #: Work#

OTHER OFFICERS

(Historian, Parliamentarian, Sergeant at Arms, Committee Chairs, etc.)

Officer Name: Email address:

Officer Position:

Cell Phone #: Work #:

Officer Name: Email address:

Officer Position:

Cell Phone #: Work #:

Officer Name: Email address:

Officer Position: Cell Phone #: Work#:

Officer Name: Email address:

Officer Position:

Cell Phone #: Work#

Student Organization Advisor Agreement

Student Organization Name

Mission Statement/Statement of Purpose

____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________

Advisor Number 1:

Name: _____________________________________________________________

Email Mail Address: __________________________________________________

Phone Number: (Office) (Cell)_____________________

Advisor Number 2:

Name: _____________________________________________________________

Email Mail Address: __________________________________________________

Phone Number: (Office) ____________________ (Cell)_____________________

Advisor’s Agreement Statement

I have agreed to serve as a student organization advisor for the 202-2024 academic year. I will ensure that my club/organization members follow the appropriate protocol to be a registered club/organization on campus. I will attend club meetings.

Signature Advisor Number 1

Date

Signature Advisor Number 2

Date

Student Organization Membership List

Student Organization Name

REGISTERED STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS CONDUCT

Galveston College welcomes student organizations and their efforts towards making the campus community a wonderful experience for all students through co-curricular programming. However, all organizations should act in the best interest of the group they are representing as well as the College.

Registered clubs and organizations can be charged with violating local, state and federal laws and/or college policies. A student club and organization and its officers can be held collectively, and/or individually, responsible when alleged violations occur during an event sponsored either by the organization or by an individual representing or associated with that organization or group. Sanctions for a group, club or organization may include suspension, revocation, or denial of registration in addition to all appropriate sanctions provided by the Galveston College policy.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Each individual student is a responsible adult and is expected to act accordingly. Emphasis will be placed on standards of student conduct rather than on limits or restrictions on students.

A student's enrollment is subject to acceptance of standards of conduct which are developed and published in the Student Handbook, the College Catalog, and/or the Policy Manual, and which may be explained and clarified in other statements prepared and published by the College. Non-compliance with these standards will be sufficient cause for suspension from the College. Authority for suspension of a student is vested with the President or designee (which in most cases shall be the Associate Vice President of Student Services).

All applicable federal laws, state laws, and city ordinances are in effect and enforceable on the premises of Galveston College or at College sponsored events/activities. If an offense, which occurs off campus, is such that in the judgment of the President or Associate Vice President of Student Services, the circumstances of the offense are likely to interfere with the educational process or the orderly operation of the College, or endanger the health, safety, or welfare of the College community, disciplinary actions may be taken.

Any violation of the ordinances and laws referred to above shall, upon conviction, be punishable by the same penalties provided for in said ordinances or applicable laws.

Galveston College is an educational institution committed to the philosophy that a community college should open its doors to all citizens of its area who can benefit from its educational programs. The Board of Regents and the College administration will not condone or tolerate acts calculated to disrupt the continuing educational functions of the College, or to deny to any person or persons their opportunity to participate in the educational programs of the College.

ALCOHOL AND DRUG USE

Alcohol

The use of intoxicating beverages shall be prohibited in classroom buildings, laboratories, auditoriums, library building, museums, faculty and administrative offices, intercollegiate and intramural athletic facilities, and all other public campus areas. However, with the prior consent of the Board or designee, the provisions herein may be waived with respect to any specific affair that is sponsored by the institution. State law shall be strictly enforced at all times on all property controlled by the Galveston Community College District in regard to the possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Controlled Substances

No student shall possess, use, transmit, attempt to possess, use or transmit, or be under the influence of (legal intoxication not required) any of the following substances on school premises during any school term or off school premises at a school-sponsored activity, function, or event:

• Any controlled substance or dangerous drug as defined by law, including but not limited to marijuana, any narcotic drug, hallucinogen, stimulant, depressant, amphetamine or barbiturate;

• Alcohol or any alcoholic beverage;

• Any abusable glue, aerosol paint, or any other volatile chemical substance for inhalation; and/or

• Any other intoxicant, or mood-changing, mind-altering, or behavior altering drugs. The transmittal, sale, or attempted sale of what is represented to be any of the above- listed substances is also prohibited under this policy.

A student who uses a drug authorized by a licensed physician through a prescription specifically for that student’s use shall not be considered to have violated this rule.

Students who violate this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Such disciplinary action may include referral to drug and alcohol counseling or rehabilitation programs or student assistance programs, suspension, expulsion, and referral to appropriate law enforcement officials for prosecution.

Summary of the Texas Legislative Act Regarding Hazing (Effective September 1, 1987)

Please read to your membership or have your club/organization members read the following “Hazing Policy.”

Registration is not complete until the all members sign the Hazing Policy Agreement form.

1. Definition of Hazing

Hazing means any intentional, knowing, or reckless act, occurring on or off the campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization whose members are or include students at an educational institution.

The term includes but is not limited to: any type of physical brutality, such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic shocking, placing a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity; any type of physical activity, such as sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements, confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other activity that subjects the student to an unreasonable risk or harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student; any activity involving consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or other substance which subjects the student to an unreasonable risk or harm or which adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student; any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism, that subjects the student to extreme mental stress, shame, or humiliation, or that adversely affects the mental health or dignity of the student or discourages the student from entering or remaining registered in an educational institution, or that may reasonably be expected to cause a student to leave the organization or the institution rather than submit to acts described in this subsection; any activity that induces, causes or requires the student to perform a duty or task which involves a violation of the Penal Code.

2. Personal Hazing Offense

A person commits a hazing offense if he/she engages in hazing; solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid another in engaging in hazing; intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly permits hazing to occur; or has firsthand knowledge of the planning of a specific hazing incident involving a student in an educational institution, or firsthand knowledge that a specific hazing incident has occurred, and knowingly fails to report said knowledge in writing to the Associate Vice President of Student Services or other appropriate official of the institution.

Penalties

• Failure to report hazing: Fine up to $2,000; jail up to 180 days, or both.

• Hazing without serious bodily injury: Fine up to $2,000; jail up to than 180 days, or both.

• Hazing with serious bodily injury: Fine up to $4,000; jail up to one year, or both.

• Hazing resulting in death: Fine up to $10,000; jail not less than 180 days nor more than two years, or both. In cases, which do not result in death, community service may be imposed in lieu of a jail sentence.

3. Organization Hazing Offense

An organization commits a hazing offense if the organization condones or encourages hazing or if an officer or any combination of members, pledges, or alumni of the organization commits or assists in the commission of hazing. Penalties:

• Hazing that does not result in personal injury, property damage or loss: Fine of not less than $5,000 nor more than $10,000.

• Hazing which results in personal injury, property damage or loss: Fine of not less than $5,000 nor more than double the amount lost or expenses incurred because of such injury, damage, or loss.

4. Consent is Not a Defense

It isnot a defense to prosecution of an offensethat theperson against whom the hazingwasdirected, consented to, or acquiesced in the hazing activity.

5. Immunity from Prosecution

The court may grant immunity from prosecution to each person who is subpoenaed and does testify for the prosecution. Any person reporting a specific hazing incident to the Office of Student Activities or other appropriate official and/or participates in any judicial proceeding as a result of the report is immune from liability, civil or criminal. Medical practitioners reporting treatment of students who have been subjected to hazing activities shall be immune from civil or other liability. Persons reporting in bad faith or with malice are not protected.

6. Sanctions in Addition to Other Penal Provisions

The educational institution may enforce its own penalties against hazing.

Hazing is defined as any action taken or situation created which, regardless of intent or consent of the participants:

• Produces or is reasonably likely to produce, bodily harm or danger, mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, fright, humiliation, or ridicule, or otherwise compromises the dignity of an individual;

• Compels an individual to participate in any activity which is unlawful and/or contrary to the rules, policies, and regulations of the college;

• Will unreasonably or unusually impair an individual's academic efforts, and/or;

• Occurs on or off campus.

All students are strictly prohibited from engaging in any hazing activity.

Examples of actions and activities, which are explicitly prohibited, include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Compelling individuals to consume alcohol or drugs;

• Paddling in any form, shoving, or otherwise striking individuals;

• Compelling individuals to engage in sexual behaviors, sexual or racial harassment or slurs, or exhibitionism;

• Compelling individuals to wear or carry unusual, uncomfortable, degrading, or physically burdensome articles or apparel;

• Depriving individuals of the opportunity for sufficient sleep, decent edible meals, or access to means of maintaining bodily cleanliness;

• Activities which impair an individual's academic efforts by causing exhaustion, loss of sleep, loss of reasonable study time, or preventing an individual from attending class;

• The creation of excessive fatigue by participation in physically demanding activities (calisthenics, runs, etc.);

• Compelling individuals to eat or drink unusual substances or compelling the consumption of undue amounts or odd preparations of food;

• Having substances thrown at, poured on, or otherwise applied to the body;

• Morally degrading or humiliating games or any other activities that make an individual the object of amusement, ridicule, or intimidation;

• Transporting individuals against their will, abandoning individuals at distant locations, or conducting any ‘kidnap,’ ‘ditch,’ or ‘road trip’ that might in any way endanger or compromise the health, safety, or comfort of any individual;

• Causing an individual to be indecently exposed or exposed to the elements;

• Requiring an individual to remain in a fixed position for a long period of time;

• Compelling an individual to be branded or tattooed;

• ‘Line-up’ involving intense, demeaning intimidation or interrogation, such as shouting obscenities or insults;

• Compelling individuals to participate in activities (pranks, scavenger hunts, etc.) which encourage the defacement or property, engage in theft, harass other individuals, groups of individuals, or organizations, or disrupt the normal activities of the college;

• Tests of courage, bravery, stamina, or sexuality;

• Intentionally deceiving new members, prior to initiation, to make them believe that they will not be initiated;

• Intentionally deceiving members (pledges, associates, initiates, etc.) to make them believe that they will be struck or hurt;

• Excluding an individual from social contact for prolonged periods of time; and/or, • Compelling an individual to engage in acts of personal servitude.

Any of the activities described above upon which the initiation or admission into, or affiliation with or continued membership in an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned, shall be presumed to be ‘compelled activities’ the willingness of an individual to participate not withstanding therefore consent is not a defense.

The burden to ensure that student organization activities are acceptable rests with the student organization. This is a preliminary test for hazing: if you are not sure whether an activity is hazing, it probably is. Therefore, the activity should be dropped or discussed with the appropriate college official. Questions regarding the acceptability of a proposed student organization activity should be discussed with the Office of Student Activities.

The terms and concepts (e.g. humiliating, degrading, unusual, uncomfortable, embarrassing, demeaning, etc.) as it pertains to hazing shall be interpreted by Galveston College officials in relation to acceptable and applicable community standards.

The responsibility for enforcing the policy regarding hazing is as follows:

a. The president or chair of each registered student organization is responsible for informing the members (including pledges, associate members, initiated members, affiliates, etc.) of the college’s policy regarding hazing. It is suggested that the president or chair read and distribute a copy of this policy to each member of the organization during the first meeting of each semester.

b. The president or chair of each registered student organization is responsible for informing guests and alumni members of this policy and is additionally responsible for controlling the actions of guests and alumni members’ relative to this policy. It is the responsibility of any and all individuals who have firsthand knowledge of the planning or actual occurrence of a hazing activity to promptly report said knowledge to the Office of the Associate Vice President of Student Services.

HAZING PREVENTION IS EVERYONE’S RESPONSIBILITY!

HAZING POLICY AGREEMENT FORM

Member Name (PRINT)

ID #

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION

Literature Distribution on Campus

Galveston College faculty, staff, students and/or members of registered student clubs/ organizations may distribute literature or other printed materials on campus grounds provided that:

1. Copies are stamped, dated and approved by the Student Activities Coordinator or the Administrative Assistant to the Associate Vice President of Student Services.

2. A stamped and approved copy of the literature/printed materials will remain on file with the Office of Student Activities

3. The literature/printed materials are distributed within seven business days from the date it is stamped, dated and filed with the Office of Student Activities.

4. The literature/printed materials are distributed in person.

5. The literature or other printed materials are not forced upon others.

6. The free flow of pedestrian, vehicular, or other traffic is not obstructed at any point.

7. Each piece of literature/printed material identifies the name of the individual and/ or group distributing it.

8. The literature/printed materials do not litter the area.

9. Literature/printed materials do not promote non-permitted solicitation of commercial activities.

10. It is not political campaign literature which is prohibited within college buildings.

11. Libelous material is prohibited and may not be distributed. Libelous material shall be defined to include defamatory falsehoods about public figures or governmental officials, which are made with knowledge of their falsity or reckless disregard for truth.

Signs Posted On Campus

The only signs (not fliers) permitted on Galveston College grounds are those that promote official Galveston College events or activities.

General Posting Procedures

The following procedures are designed to permit maximum orderly use of the college property by the Galveston College students, faculty, staff, college departments, and student organizations for publicity purposes.

1. All fliers, posters or banners must have prior approval by the Student Activities Coordinator or the Administrative Assistant to the Associate Vice President of Student Services. Each copy must be stamped and dated prior to posting.

2. One copy of each approved stamped and dated flier must be kept on file in the Office of Student Activities.

3. All student clubs/organizations must obtain prior approval from the Student Activities Coordinator before requesting duplication of materials from the Media Center.

4. It is the responsibility of the student club/organization to remove signs immediately after an event is complete. All fliers, posters and banners regarding events that may be of interest to the community may not be posted off campus without prior approval from the Office of Student Activities, Associate Vice President of Student Services and the Office of Public Affairs.

5. All materials to be posted off campus must contain the Galveston College logo and the policy statement. The statement is as follows:

“It is the policy of Galveston College to provide equal opportunities without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, genetic information or veteran status.”

6. All political campaign postings are prohibited within College buildings and/or grounds.

7. Posting on office doors or windshields of student’s and employees’ cars is prohibited.

8. Posting is permitted in the following areas ONLY:

a. Kiosks located in the Northern Building, one on each floor.

b. Bulletin boards located in Moody Hall and Regents Hall.

9. All materials must include the full name of the student club/organization and all content must be printed or translated in English.

10. Items improperly posted will be removed and discarded by personnel designated by the Office of the Associate Vice President of Student Services.

Failure by a student organization to comply with regulations or posting procedures may result in suspension of posting privileges for one semester. Continuing to post while the privileges are revoked can result in the suspension of the student organization.

Freedom of Expression

The rights of free speech and peaceable assembly are fundamental to the democratic process. Galveston College supports the rights of students of the college community to express their views and opinions on actions or ideas, to associate freely with others, and to assemble peacefully.

Whether expressing themselves as individuals or in organized groups, members of the college community are expected to conduct themselves responsibly, according to the law, and to respect the basic educational goals of the college. Accordingly, the college insists that free expression not violate the rights of others. Disruption of the educational process and functions of the college, or violation of a law would constitute such a violation.

Emergency Authority

In emergency situations, the President or designated college officials shall have the authority to take steps to prevent expressive activities that materially interfere with the educational missions of the college. Activities include, but are not limited to the following:

1. Activities that are illegal.

2. Activities that deny the rights of other students, faculty, and staff of the college.

3. Activities that obstruct or restrict the free movement of persons on any part of the college campus including the free entry to or exit from campus facilities.

4. Activities that deny the use of offices or other facilities to the students, faculty, staff or guests of the college

5. Activities that threaten or endanger the safety of any person on the college campus 6. Activities that are likely to result in damage to or destruction of college property

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Funding Guidelines

The State law allows student organizations affiliated with colleges and universities to sponsor a one day, tax-free sale (fundraiser) once each month. A student organization that sells only taxable items during the one-day monthly fundraising drive is not required to have a sales tax permit. Law requires that a sign indicating that the sale being held is part of a one-day, tax-free sale per month be posted by the organization. Another option is to provide each customer with a receipt indicating that the sale is part of the one-day per month, tax-free sale sponsored by your organization, which is officially registered at Galveston College. The club/organization is also responsible for paperwork showing purchases and sales in the event that the student organization is audited.

Groups that conduct sales more frequently or that have sales with receipts exceeding $5,000 per year must collect and remit sales tax, and provide a vendor with an exemption certificate. The exemption certificate should show the registered student organization (not the college) as the purchaser, and the reason for the exemption should state that the items are being purchased for sale during the organization’s one-day, tax-free sale.

**All fundraising activities (including raffles) must be held in the college service area and be approved by the Advisor, Student Activities Coordinator, Associate Vice President of Student Services, Director of Development & Galveston College Foundation, Vice President of Administration and the College President.

Each student club/organization should attempt to become self-sufficient by collecting dues and scheduling fundraising activities. Registered student organizations who are in good standing with the Office of Student Activities may access departmental funds in the following ways:

Start Up Funds - Each academic year, “new” registered student organizations are eligible to receive onetime start-up funds to cover initial costs. The number of active members in the organizations determines the amount of money provided. If the organization registers with less than 20 members, the organization will receive $100.00. Organizations that register with more than 20 members will receive $150.00

Co-Sponsorship – Student organizations may also apply for a co-sponsorship with the Office of Student Activities and the Student Government Association provided that the event meets the following criteria:

• It is an on-campus event.

• It is a free event.

• The event does not generate profit for the student organization.

• The event is open to all students.

**If students or advisors wish to reactivate an inactive organization, it may be done so by following the procedure listed under Registering Student Organizations above.

Club Accounting

A student organization must operate its financial affairs in an orderly and responsible manner. All organizational funds must be kept in an organizational account within the Galveston College Business Office and will be monitored by the Office of Student Activities and their respective advisor(s). Additionally, all income, regardless of the source, should be deposited into the organization’s account within five (5) business days.

Additionally, a monthly report is due to the Office of Student Activities, which will be shared with the Office of Development if donations are received by a student organization. The report should include the following: Event Name, Donor (if applicable), Items Donated, Amount of Donation, Total Donation and Revenues for the event.

Accurate record keeping by the advisor, the club president and the club treasurer of all organizational income and expense activities are required in order to maintain a registered student organizational status with the College. A copy of the monthly report and all deposit slips must be retained in the club and organization file in the Office of Student Activities

Check Requests

All check requests for payment of expenditures requires signatures from the Office of Student Activities and the Associate Vice President of Student Services. When an individual of an organization has pre-paid an approved allowable expense, he/she may be reimbursed upon the presentation of all of the supporting documentation regarding the payment (i.e. Student Activities Expenditure Form, original invoice or receipt marked paid). A check request should be initiated at least 14 business days in advance.

Contracts

Anytime the purchase of items for resale, rental of equipment, off-campus facilities, etc. requires the signing of a contract, the contract must be approved by the Student Activities Coordinator, Associate Vice President of Student Services, Vice President of Administration and the College President. The contract will then be processed through the Business Office to arrange contractual agreements. A minimum of 14 business days is needed to process contracts. Contracts may only be signed by the President of Galveston College.

The College cannot reimburse tax. Therefore, a college tax-exempt form is available in the Business Office for student organization’s use when purchasing taxable items with organization or state funds with prior approval from the Office of Student Activities.

EVENT PLANNING

A successful event is a well-planned event!

Please take the time to read the rest of this Handbook so that your organization can make the most of the co-curricular opportunities here at Galveston College!

BEST PRACTICES

• Plan early

• Select your venue

• Develop marketing materials (i.e. flyers, posters, social networking)

• Promote your event, Galveston College event calendar

• Logistics (i.e. setup, volunteers, cleanup)

Student Organization Event Registration Check List

Important things to consider when planning your event:

 Confirm dates with the Coordinator of Student Activities to confirm that there are not any conflicting events on the calendar

 Determine your budget

 Venue (room configuration)

 If outdoors, what is the inclement weather plan?

 Refreshments (Mr. C’s Deli or outside catering)

 Flyers/marketing

 Set up/clean up

Approvals required: A student organizational officer or Advisor must complete the following forms:  Student Activities Expenditure form – for financial documentation

 Public Affairs Project/Event Request – to place event on GC social networking platforms and GC Calendar

 Service Request (for Facility use) – to get rooms unlocked and locked, request tables, chairs, media equipment  Fundraiser Request – for the Galveston College Foundation

ADVISOR(S) Please review and sign the appropriate forms.

All required forms must be returned to the Office of Student Activities located in Hermes Fitness Center, H202 at least three (3) weeks prior to your event for approval and marketing.

*Please note that your event is not approved until the following forms are completed, submitted and approved by the Student Activities Coordinator, Associate Vice President for Student Services, Vice President for Administration and the College President

EVENT REGISTRATION PROCESS

The event registration process is required for all organizational business conducted on or off campus. The officer or faculty advisor of an organization will submit a Student Activity Expenditures form (page 23) for approval of an activity of the event at least three (3) weeks prior to the date of the proposed activity or event to the Student Activities Coordinator. An event is not approved until the club president and advisor are notified by the Student Activities Coordinator.

Events that require registration are as follows:

1. Club meetings

2. All on-campus events (i.e. fundraisers, guest lecturers, social events, movies, blood drives); and

3. All off-campus events (i.e. fundraisers, conference attendance, any travel).

An organization will obtain servicesof one or two police officersfor major activities.The Office of Student Activities must approve exceptions to this policy.

Facility Reservations

The Student Activities Coordinator will coordinate with the organization advisor(s) and student organization officer to plan for room reservations. The Student Activities Coordinator will advise each organization on locations, use and setup configurations based on the type of event. A Facilities Service Request form (page 24) must be submitted to the Student Activities Coordinator with the following details:

1. Requested by – Student organization name and name of one advisor

2. Ext. – Advisor’s office phone extension

3. Department – Advisor’s department name

4. Date and time request – this include setup and clean up for the event

5. Date required – the time of the event, from beginning to end 6. On the left section include:

a. the title of the event

b. location of the event

c. number of chairs and tables requesting (round or rectangular tables)

d. audio/visual equipment need (i.e. microphones, microphone stands, laptop, projector, clicker, podium, stage)

5. If necessary, attach a diagram of your setup.

The following facilities or locations available for use on campus are:

1. Moody Lobby

2. The Atrium (in front of fountain)

3. Regents Hallway (in front of library)

4. Student Lounges (SC 105 and 100)

5. Fine Arts - FA 207

6. Classroom

7. Seibel Wing (full or half) and other locations on campus.

All events with food MUST be held in the Atrium, Seibel Wing, or the Student Lounges.

STUDENT TRAVEL Documentation

A Student Travel Application must be submitted for approval to the Office of Student Activities at least two weeks prior to the date of the trip. The “Estimated” section of the Student Travel form must be completed and submitted with the following documentation:

1. A complete description of the purpose of the travel

2. A copy of the program or conference

3. Registration fee documentation

4. Mode of travel (rental car, charter bus, or personal car) and cost (invoice/quote)

5. Waiver of Liability and Hold Harmless Agreement form (page 27)

6. Medical Treatment Release form (page 28)

7. Student Travel Approval form which is a complete list of all students and other individuals traveling to the program/conference. (Page 31)

When the Student Travel Approval form has received all approvals, a copy will be emailed to the advisor of the group traveling. Once the approved documentation has been received by the advisor, a check request for estimated expenses will be submitted by the advisor to the Coordinator of Student Activities for an approval signature. The check will then be forwarded to the Associate Vice President for Student Services and Vice President for Administrative Services for final approval. The check request for expenses will then be forwarded to the Business Office for processing. The advisor will be notified by the Business Office when the check is ready for pickup.

Upon return of travel, an itemized listing of all expenses incurred shall be submitted by completing the “Actual” portion of the of the Student Travel form. Processing should proceed according to the signature line authority. All expense receipts are required for reimbursement.

Procedures

Student Travel and Use of Motor Driven Vehicles and Equipment: reference Texas Education Code Section 51.950, and Senate Bill No. 263

These travel procedures apply to faculty and staff who engage in transporting students off campus to an activity or event that is organized, sponsored or funded by the institution, using an approved Galveston College commercial/chartered transportation service, or travel that is required by an organization registered at the institution. These travel procedures are considered to be minimum standard and all student travel covered under this procedure must have an approved Student Travel form (with required departmental signatures) on file with the Office of Student Activities.

It is required that two (2) designated faculty and/or staff members accompany each student travel group. The designated faculty/staff members must collect and submit a signed Waiver of Liability and Hold Harmless Agreement form, and Medical Treatment Release form for each student and the two (2) advisors. Staple the Waiver of Liability and Hold Harmless Agreement, and Medical Treatment Release forms for each student together, and arrange in alphabetical order. Attach all of the Waivers of Liability and the Hold Harmless Agreement, and Medical Treatment Release forms to the Student Travel Approval form. Students’ names are to be noted on the Student Travel Approval form in alphabetical order. Submit to the travel packet to the Student Activities Coordinator, Associate Vice President of Student Services and the Vice President of Administration two (2) weeks prior to travel. All college rules and regulations must be followed, refer to the Galveston College Catalog for Student Rights and Responsibilities, as well as the Student Handbook, the Faculty Handbook and the Employee Handbook.

All groups are required to obtain an approved Galveston College commercial/chartered transportation service. This will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and final decision for such an event will be given by the Associate Vice President of Student Services or his/her designee after consultation with the student organization’s advisor or faculty/staff representative and the Vice President of Administration. Chartered transportation must comply with all state and federal laws.

For student/student organization travel, no Galveston College employees are allowed to drive personal or college owned/leased motor vehicles. Galveston College students, student workers, and work/study students are not allowed to drive College owned/leased motor vehicles, and are not covered as drivers under the College insurance policy.

All occupants must use seat belts and other safety devices when the vehicle is in motion. Manufacturer suggested vehicle capacities must be followed when vehicles are used by students/student organizations, in accordance with Galveston College Transportation Management local policy CJ.

The fatigue of the vehicle operator should be considered at the time of travel and only rested drivers should operate a vehicle (in accordance with Galveston College Transportation Management local policy CJ).

Students will be liable for any medical expenses (with the exclusion of student athletes, covered under SB20CC Plan of Insurance) and must sign the “Waiver of Liability and Hold Harmless Agreement” prior to student travel. Each student who travels by motor vehicle or any other form of transportation to participate in a college related activity must sign a copy of the “Medical Treatment Release” form. Any traveling student under the age of 18 must have the “Medical Treatment Release” form signed by a parent or guardian. Clubs or organizations that travel frequently are encouraged to have consent for treatment forms on file for all travelers with the advisor(s).

Departments that encourage or require one or more students to travel to events and activities covered under this policy are responsible for verifying that students are aware of this policy. Faculty and staff employees who fail to comply with this policy are subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Galveston College Corrective Administrative Action Procedure. Individual students who violate this procedure and the safe travel rules approved by the college are subject to disciplinary action, to include suspension. Student organizations that violate this policy and the safe travel rules are subject to disciplinary action, to include loss of charter and/or loss of funding. In the event of an incident or violation, student and/or student organization disciplinary action(s) will be determined by the Associate Vice President of Student Services.

Advisor: Cell Phone: Advisor: Cell Phone: List all students/participants who will make the trip in alphabetical order:

Student Travel Form

Application for Trip Approval

Date Student Trip form was submitted:

Person/ organization requesting Trip: