Division of Student Affairs Funding
RSO Advisers
According to the Spartan Experiences Adviser Handbook, “The role of the Adviser of a Registered Student Organization (RSO) is to provide guidance to the student organization(s) in operational functions, continuity between years and its adherence to University policies and procedures.”
RSOs may select an Adviser of their choice, with the individual’s consent, provided the Adviser meets the eligibility criteria outlined in the Spartan Experiences Adviser Handbook. Serving as an RSO Adviser provides an invaluable contribution toward student success, and is generally an unpaid, voluntary role. In some cases, advising an RSO may be included as part of an employee’s job responsibilities; however, this is not the typical arrangement.
For more information, please refer to the Spartan Experiences Adviser Handbook website: https://spartanexperiences.msu.edu/rso-s/RSOAH/index.html
RSO Large Scale and/or Complex Programmatic Support
Some RSOs plan large-scale or complex events that require additional support beyond the general scope of the RSO Adviser role. The Office of Spartan Experiences can provide guidance and assistance to RSOs planning these events or connect them with the appropriate campus unit based on the nature and needs of the program.
RSOs planning educational and social programs and events that explore, preserve, share, or celebrate the cultures, histories, traditions, arts, languages, customs, experiences, knowledge, and practices associated with peoples, communities, countries, or regions of the world may also seek support from a number of Student Affairs units that may have expertise to assist with such activities (i.e. Office of Multicultural Enrichment and Advocacy (OMEA); MOSAIC; Center for Veterans & Military Connected Students; The Gender and Sexuality Campus Center, etc.).
RSO Program and Event Funding Options
Signature Programs
Certain RSOs host annual large scale educational and social programs and events that explore, preserve, share, or celebrate the cultures, histories, traditions, arts, languages, customs, experiences, knowledge, and practices associated with peoples, communities, countries, or regions of the world. These programs are open to all and provide impactful experiences for any student who wishes to participate. Student Affairs will continue to sponsor the signature programs at the levels listed below, provided that the plans for the program (including descriptions, content, and plans for advertising and awareness of the program) are submitted and comply with all University requirements. Note this may not be the full cost of the programs, so other sources may need to be identified to cover the full cost. Additional signature programs will be considered as funding is available. Request for funds can be made through Involve@State.
- APIDA Cultural Vogue $15,000
- Black Power Rally $20,000
- Brown Pride $5,000
- Dia de la Mujer $10,000
- Latinx Achievement Gala $20,000
- Powwow of Love $15,000
Other Student Affairs Sponsorship Requests
Student Affairs will seek to support a broad range of programs and events that contribute to student success and progress towards inclusive access and belonging for all MSU students. Student Affairs has a limited pool of funds to support RSO-sponsored educational and social programs and events that explore, preserve, share, or celebrate the cultures, histories, traditions, arts, languages, customs, experiences, knowledge, and practices associated with peoples, communities, countries, or regions of the world that are open to all.
The Associate Vice President for Inclusive Access and Belonging will review requests and approve or deny funding requests. RSOs must submit funding requests through Involve@State at least two weeks before the program or event. More complicated programs or events may require additional time for approval as well as processing purchases so RSOs are encouraged to submit requests as soon as possible.
The total funding available from Student Affairs for these events is $176,000. Up to $88,000 will be allocated for programs and events planned for Fall semester with any unspent funds rolling over to Spring semester for allocation. This will ensure a balance of events across the academic year.
To Apply: Division of Student Affairs Funding Application
Associated Students of Michigan State University (ASMSU) Funding Opportunities
ASMSU provides funding for RSOs. One funding opportunity is for organizations designated as an Activity Department (ASMSU for internal designation), and the other is open to all other RSOs. For more information, visit the ASMSU Student Allocations Board website:
https://asmsu.msu.edu/home/student-allocations/student-allocations-board/
University College/Department/Office Sponsorship
University colleges, departments, and offices may offer funding support for RSO programs and events, which must be open to all. The Office of Spartan Experiences can confirm if the RSO is in good standing and the program/event is approved.
Funding Accountability
To promote transparency and accountability, a monthly report detailing the balances, event/program approvals and expenditures for Student Affairs Sponsorships and Signature Programs outlined in this document will be provided to RSO leaders upon request.
Funding Limitations
University funding may be limited or unavailable for certain activities, including religious ceremonies, worship or devotional activities; partisan political or campaign activities; contributions to candidates or political organizations; fundraising/charitable events; study abroad; alternative spring break; academic or any activity that is graded or applies toward completing a degree; profit-making events; giveaways not related to a specific program or event; or other expenditures that the University is prohibited or restricted from supporting.
RSO Operational Needs
RSOs may have ongoing operational needs that extend beyond funding for specific programs and events. These may include expenses associated with maintaining the organization, supporting membership activities, purchasing supplies or equipment, maintaining affiliations with regional or national organizations, or other costs necessary for the organization’s continued operation.
University funding opportunities available to RSOs are generally intended to support programs, events, and activities that benefit the broader student or campus community. RSOs should not assume that university funding will be available to cover all ongoing organizational or administrative expenses. For more information visit https://controller.msu.edu/manual-of-business-procedures.
RSOs seeking resources for operational needs are encouraged to develop a sustainable funding approach that may include membership dues, fundraising activities, donations, sponsorships, or other allowable sources of revenue. Organizations should consider their anticipated operational expenses as part of their annual planning and establish a budget that identifies how those expenses will be supported throughout the year.
The Office of Spartan Experiences can provide guidance to RSOs regarding what fundraising is allowable or how to set up accounts to support fundraising efforts. RSOs must ensure that all fundraising, sponsorship, purchasing, and financial activities comply with applicable University policies and procedures. For more information visit: https://spartanexperiences.msu.edu/