Lenoir-Rhyne University
Campus Organization Advisor's Handbook

DEFINING AN ADVISOR
(Excerpts taken from the University of Florida’s Advisor’s Handbook)

Only a member of the faculty or staff of LRU may be invited to serve as an advisor to a campus organization. Every campus organization must have an advisor; failure to secure an advisor may jeopardize the club’s standing Greek organizations may have alumni advisors in addition to a campus advisor.

An advisor is one who gives ideas, shares insight, provides a different perspective, and counsels among other things.

Advisors for student organizations have three main functions:

1. To help with the growth and development of students

2. To add to the continuity of the group as members graduate. Advisors can provide the consistency and communicate the goals, legacy and history to future generations of members.

3. To assist in the area of program content and purpose.

ADVISING TIPS

Every student organization will differ and may require a different approach by the advisor. Using the following information will serve as a beginning point.

1. In the beginning of the advising relationship, agree on clear expectations about the role of the advisor and the role of the student organization. Discuss philosophies and reach a consensus.

2. Read the constitution of the group, get to know the members, attend events, and generally make yourself seen so that they know who you are.

3. Assist in the establishment of responsibilities for each officer and member.

4. Develop a strong relationship with the president or chairperson and other officers. This is key because these students will be your main contact with the group.

5. Discuss concerns with an officer’s performance in a one-on-one setting. Whenever someone does something extremely well, be sure to let others know.

6. Maintain a sense of humor – it’s college, not rocket science.

7. Be honest and open with all communication. The students need to feel that you are just in your dealings with them.

8. Realize that you have the power of persuasion, but use this judiciously. The students sometimes need to learn how to fail.

9. Help them see alternatives and provide an outside perspective.

10. Remember: praise in public, criticize in private.

11. Find a balance between being the strict naysayer and the laissez-faire friend. The students must feel that you are supportive of them and yet that you will hold them accountable.