Advisor Information
The presence of the On-Campus Advisor is expected at events involving activities which could result in injury to a participant. In particular, the Advisor must be present when:
- The event is after the regular University Union operating hours
- Physical activities are involved, such as gym nights or sports events
- An on-campus dance is held
- An event includes minors on campus
- Large events with an anticipated attendee count of 100 or more
In these cases, the Advisor is generally responsible for the safety of the participants, the security of the facility, and the manner in which the program is conducted.
If the On-Campus Advisor is unable to supervise a program, the organization may submit the name of a CSUEB faculty or staff member willing to serve as an Advisor for a specific event for approval. Some facilities or programs may require special hired supervision (University Union staff, University Police Officers, theater technicians, etc.). Under such circumstances, the supervisory requirement may be waived.
Other Responsibilities Include:
- Know and believe in the RSO, its goals, history, and constitution
- Be informed of university policies and procedures governing student activities and organizations
- See that the officers of the RSO are aware of these policies and procedures
- Report any violations of policies to SLIC
- Be an active resource to the RSO
- Stay aware of the RSO's successes and failures
- Help general membership adhere to the constitution
- Be aware of the activities of the RSO and attend as needed
- Provide advice regarding proper procedures to avoid conduct which would bring discredit to the RSO or to the university
- Assist in the administration of financial affairs and events of the RSO when appropriate
- Provide continuity during periods of transition and from year-to-year
Please contact Student Leadership and Involvement Center at (510) 885-3657, or the RSO's assigned SLIC Staff, if clarification or assistance with any of these responsibilities are needed.
Liability
The university encourages the activities of RSOs and is supportive of the roles of Advisors. It is the responsibility of the Advisor to act reasonably while performing their role. An Advisor should not inhibit the RSO from having fun, but should use reasonable care as they advise. Advisors should consider themselves as an educator representing both the RSO and the university.
Anticipate "Foreseeable Harm"
Advisors should review planning and publicity to anticipate “foreseeable harm”. If the Advisor foresees any kind of danger or harm to individuals or the university, they should contact the RSO’s SLIC Staff to inform them.
Act with Reasonable Care
Advisors should think about what a reasonable person in a similar position would do in the situation. Advisors should advise the leaders to take action—not take over. Advisors should communicate possibilities and concerns; ask what has been planned to handle each concern.
Duty to Warn
If an event appears to have foreseeable harm, Advisors have a duty to warn the leaders of the risk and to take action (e.g. alter or remove the danger, plan how to forewarn members of risk, eliminate CSUEB's name if appropriate). Advisors should utilize CSUEB resources on campus if necessary and contact the organization's assigned SLIC Staff with any concerns or questions.