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Faculty/Staff Advisor Resources

Student Organization Handbook

 SPAC Information

The Role of the Advisor

Our goal is not to run RSOs. Our goal is to help student leaders be successful in running their RSOs. Advisors serve as a sounding board, resource, and guide, with involvement varying based on the organization’s purpose and level of activity.

Advisors are expected to:

  • Support student leadership by asking questions, offering perspective, and providing constructive feedback.
  • Share institutional knowledge and help students navigate University policies, procedures, and expectations.
  • Connect students with campus and community resources.
  • Support officer transitions and help preserve organizational knowledge and continuity.
  • Guide planning and decision-making, including programs, activities, and the appropriate use of University funds.
  • Encourage collaboration with other student organizations, departments, and campus partners.
  • Help organizations stay aligned with their purpose and assess their relevance and impact among UMSL students.
  • Support learning and growth by helping students reflect on successes, mistakes, and leadership experiences.

Ultimately, advisors provide guidance and support while student leaders remain responsible for leading their organization and making decisions.

As a RSO advisor, you may be eligible for University defense and protection when acting in good faith and within the scope of your authorized University responsibilities. This protection is subject to University policy and does not extend to malfeasance, willful or wanton actions, or neglect of duty. For complete details, please review the full 490.010 Defense and Protection of Employees

As a student organization advisor, you are designated a Campus Security Authority (CSA) under the Clery Act.

  • Required CSA training will be assigned in Percipio and must be completed as part of your advisor appointment.
  • CSAs must report sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking to the appropriate Title IX Coordinator.

Federal Law: Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA)

  • Enacted December 2024; amended the Clery Act
  • Requires institutions to report hazing incidents disclosed to Campus Security Authorities (CSAs)
  • Mandates campus hazing prevention programs and a public Campus Hazing Transparency Report

Missouri State Law: Danny’s Law (RSMo 578.365)

  • Defines hazing as a criminal offense under Missouri law
  • Provides limited Good Samaritan protections for individuals who seek medical help and cooperate with authorities

Advisor Responsibility

Provides a secure way to report concerns involving unethical behavior, policy violations, or misconduct.

Reports may be made online or by phone, with the option to remain confidential or anonymous.

The hotline is managed by an independent third‑party provider (EthicsSuite) and reviewed only by designated university officials.

The University prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports a concern in good faith.

Submit a report: https://www.umsystem.edu/ums/ecas/reportingconcerns 

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) is the leading source of information on the employment of the college educated, and forecasts hiring and trends in the job market; tracks starting salaries, recruiting and hiring practices, and student attitudes and outcomes; and identifies best practices and benchmarks.

NACE produces a list of career readiness competencies that we endeavor to infuse in all of our work in the Office of Student Involvement and we encourage advisors to do the same in the ways they advise their student leaders.  For more information, visit NACE's Career Readiness Competencies.