Seeking University Of Michigan Student Organization Sponsorship

The University of Michigan offers a variety of resources and opportunities for students looking to get involved in student organizations. These organizations can be registered or sponsored, with sponsored organizations having a substantial relationship with a sponsoring university department. The university provides support and funding for these groups, with certain requirements and restrictions in place. Students can take advantage of discounted rates, event spaces, and other benefits offered by the university to enhance their extracurricular experience and make the most of their time on campus.

Benefits of sponsorship

Sponsoring a student organization at the University of Michigan can bring about several benefits for the sponsoring company or organization. Firstly, it increases brand visibility and enhances marketing abilities. The sponsored group members can act as influencers or brand ambassadors, promoting the company by hosting events, wearing branded apparel, and utilizing social media platforms. This integrated approach can help the company reach a wider audience, especially the college-aged demographic, which is a significant consumer group.

Additionally, sponsoring a student organization demonstrates community goodwill and can set the business apart from its competitors. It showcases the company's support for education and its commitment to helping students achieve their goals and gain relevant knowledge and skills for their future careers. This can lead to increased sales, site traffic, and lead generation for the sponsoring company as consumers value businesses that give back to the community.

Sponsorship also provides exclusive access to the University of Michigan community, including students, alumni, and professionals. This access allows sponsors to form strategic partnerships, participate as panelists or guest speakers, and get to know the students on a personal level. Sponsors can also utilize the University's facilities, such as discounted rates at University Unions facilities, and reserve spaces for events through the Center for Campus Involvement.

Moreover, sponsors can gain recognition and promote their expertise by sharing whitepapers, linking them on the University's website, and including them in e-marketing campaigns. They can also propose executives or attorneys as speakers at conferences, further positioning their company as a leader in its field. Overall, sponsorship of a University of Michigan student organization offers a unique opportunity for businesses to connect with students, enhance their brand presence, and contribute to the development of future talent.

Financial agreement forms

The University of Michigan offers a range of resources for students seeking sponsorship or financial support for their student organizations. The university has implemented specific guidelines and forms to facilitate the sponsorship process and ensure compliance with relevant regulations. One key requirement is the completion of Financial Agreement Forms, which are mandatory for new students and sponsors starting in Fall 2022. These forms must be submitted by August 15th of each year, along with an authorization letter, to the university's office.

The Financial Agreement Forms are designed to gather up-to-date information about the student's financial situation and sponsorship details. They serve as a contract between the university, the student, and the sponsor, outlining the terms and conditions of the sponsorship. By completing these forms, sponsors can take advantage of the university's billing services, which include processing third-party billing of tuition and fees. This means that organizations, businesses, governments, or agencies sponsoring a student can have the invoices sent directly to them for payment.

It is important to note that sponsors have specific requirements for providing funds. For instance, third-party invoices are prepared on a separate schedule from student billing, and a processing fee may be included. In cases where the sponsor requires grade or transcript review before releasing funds, the university will not authorize third-party billing, and the student must pay upfront and seek reimbursement from the sponsor. Additionally, students are responsible for providing any additional documents requested by the sponsor, such as class schedules or grades.

To ensure a smooth sponsorship process, students and their organizations should be aware of certain restrictions imposed by the university. For example, funds distributed by the university or through sponsored student organizations cannot be used for political campaign activities, including advocating for or against specific candidates or legislation. The university also has specific guidelines for event sponsorships, requiring a completed Event Sponsorship Agreement (ESA) for any contributions to a VSO. This agreement covers only one event and mandates that all contributions are tracked and accounted for.

Overall, the University of Michigan provides a comprehensive framework to support students seeking sponsorship for their organizations. By completing the necessary Financial Agreement Forms and adhering to the university's guidelines, students can access the necessary financial resources to support their educational endeavours. It is advisable for students to stay informed about the latest requirements and regulations to ensure a successful sponsorship experience.

University funds and restrictions

The University of Michigan provides funding to registered student organizations, including startup funding for new student organizations and consultation services. The Student Organization Guidebook outlines funding policies and resources, including fundraising, donations, raffles, and university support.

University funds are distributed to recognized student organizations by schools, colleges, centers, institutes, departments, offices, and programs. Sponsored student organizations may adopt more focused or restrictive funding guidelines, provided they comply with university policies.

University funds cannot be used for religious worship or political campaign activities, including advocating for or against a candidate or legislation at the federal, state, or local level. Religious groups can receive funding for activities other than religious worship, and groups are free to express religious viewpoints. The University of Michigan applies its funding guidelines in a viewpoint-neutral manner.

Student organizations must maintain an SOAS or University account for all funds. They must also have a Sponsored Student Organization Agreement signed by an Executive Officer, Dean, or Director of a major programmatic or operational unit. The Sponsoring Unit must provide an advisor, and the organization must establish and maintain a close relationship with the Sponsoring Unit.

The University of Michigan has a Student Organization Naming Policy to prevent organizations from creating a misleading affiliation with the university. This policy restricts the use of "University of Michigan," UM, U-M, U of M, UMICH, and other trademarked phrases at the beginning of organization names, including on social media and URLs. Organizations can use "at the University of Michigan" at the end of their name.

Event sponsorship

Types of Student Organizations

The University of Michigan has two types of student organizations: Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) and Sponsored Student Organizations (SSOs). RSOs are independent, un-sponsored groups recognized by the Office of Student Life (OSL). They are formed by a minimum of five enrolled students who share a common purpose. SSOs, on the other hand, have a substantial relationship with a sponsoring University department. The sponsoring unit provides support in the form of an operating budget, financial sponsorship, office space, logo use, and/or a staff advisor.

Guidelines for Event Sponsorship

The University has guidelines for event sponsorship to ensure compliance with University policies and the University's mission. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:

• Student organizations must have missions that align with the University's mission and the goals of the sponsoring unit.
• Religious, political, or partisan organizations are not eligible for sponsored status due to the University's status as a governmental entity and a tax-exempt charitable organization.
• Student organizations cannot use University funds for political campaign activities, including advocating for or against candidates or legislation.
• When creating a student organization name and logo, follow the University's naming policy and brand usage guidelines to prevent misleading affiliation with the University.

Steps to Secure Event Sponsorship

Now, let's go through the steps to secure event sponsorship for your student organization:

• Register Your Student Organization: All student organizations must be registered with the Office of Student Life (OSL). This involves creating a constitution that outlines the organization's framework, including elections, finances, and more. The OSL will also need information about the organization's president, treasurer, and advisor.
• Find a Sponsoring Unit: Look for a University department that shares your organization's mission and goals. The sponsoring unit should be able to provide the support you need, whether it's financial, logistical, or advisory.
• Complete the Necessary Agreements: Sponsored Student Organizations are required to have an advisor provided by the sponsoring unit. Both parties must complete a Sponsored Student Organization Agreement, signed by an Executive Officer, Dean, or Director of the sponsoring unit. Additionally, a Student Organization Sponsorship Agreement must be completed annually as part of registration.
• Follow University Procedures: Familiarize yourself with University policies and procedures for sponsored student organizations. Work closely with your advisor, who can provide valuable guidance and ensure your organization complies with all necessary requirements.
• Utilize University Resources: Take advantage of resources provided by the University, such as the Student Organization Resource Center (SORC) and the Center for Campus Involvement (CCI). These resources can help with event planning, room reservations, and promoting your organization and events through directories like Maize Pages and Happening @ Michigan.

By following these steps and maintaining a good relationship with your sponsoring unit, you can successfully secure event sponsorship for your student organization at the University of Michigan. Remember to carefully review the University's guidelines and policies to ensure compliance and a positive partnership.

Student organisation basics

The University of Michigan offers a wide range of resources and support for student organizations. The Center for Campus Involvement is a great place to start for any student looking to get involved or start a new organization.

The University recognizes two types of student organizations: Registered Student Organizations (RSO) and Sponsored Student Organizations (SSO). All student organizations must be registered and recognized by the Office of Student Life (OSL). Registered Student Organizations are unsponsored and are formed by a minimum of five enrolled students who share a common purpose. They can obtain funding from the Student Organization Advisory Council (SOAC). Sponsored Student Organizations, on the other hand, have a substantial relationship with a sponsoring University department. The sponsoring unit must provide the organization with an operating budget/financial sponsorship, office space, logo use, and/or a staff advisor.

To be eligible for sponsorship, organizations must have missions that align with the University's mission and the goals and objectives of the sponsoring unit. They must also maintain a close relationship with the sponsoring unit and have a Sponsored Student Organization Agreement signed by an Executive Officer, Dean, or Director.

The University has a Student Organization Naming Policy to prevent organizations from creating misleading affiliations with the University. This policy outlines restrictions on the use of "University of Michigan," UM, U-M, U of M, UMICH, or any other trademarked phrase at the beginning of their name. Organizations are, however, permitted to use "at the University of Michigan" at the end of their name. There are also rules and regulations regarding the use of University trademarks in logos.

The University offers various resources and benefits to student organizations, including discounted rates at University Unions facilities, access to rooms and event spaces, and publicity services through the Student Organization Resource Center (SORC). Student organizations are automatically signed up for the University's events calendar, "Happening @ Michigan," which is free and accessible to thousands.

Frequently asked questions