Are you interested in starting an organization that is not currently registered at BGSU? You can do that!  Starting a new organization requires dedication and hard work, but the rewards are tremendous.  The Office of Campus Activities is available to be a resource throughout the process.

How to start a new organization or renew a current organization?
1.  Learn about starting an organization:  Starting a New Organization
2.  All student organizations must register annually.  Click here for instructions on how to register your organization.

What is a constitution and how to create one?
A constitution is a document that defines the mission and structure of your organization. Every organization is required to have a constitution. Learn more about Developing a Constitution or see a Sample Constitution.  

How to get a website for an organization?
There are many ways to create an online presence for your organization. Having an engaging and up-to-date website will help attract new members and keep current members informed.

• You can create a website using your OrgSync portal. 
• Organizations can create traditional websites that are hosted on the BGSU server.
  The Request a BGSU Website Account form will allow your organization to create a new site or to get access an existing site.
• There are also a number of third-party tools for creating and hosting websites including Google Sites and Facebook pages.

There is a template for Student Organizations websites to help get you started. The Academic Resource Center  can serve as a resource for learning how to create websites and work with multimedia tools.  Check out the BGSU Graphic Standards Manual and web resource guide for information on compliance with the University's brand image.

Office or storage space for an organization.
Every two years organizations can apply for office and storage space on the 4th floor of the Bowen-Thompson Student Union. The next application cycle will be in Spring 2011. For more information about the organization suite see: Using the Student Organization Suite.

If you have been awarded space in the organization suite, you need to fill out and submit the Organization Suite Contract.

Building an organization's membership.
Building a strong membership takes time and effort. For some advice on how to get started see Recruiting and Retaining Members.

Run effective meetings and committees. 
While every organization is different, there are some things that can be done to better run Effective Meetings and to create Effective Committees. 

Resources to help an organization's leadership learn and help facilitate workshops for members.
The Peer Leadership Consultants is a group of students who are trained to help groups facilitate leadership workshops. You can contact the PLC to set up a meeting to learn what the group can do for your organization.

Each year BGSU holds the annual Leadership Academy with a wide variety of sessions to help your leadership team learn and connect with others.

Request the University President or Vice President to speak at an event.
If you would like to request a University administrator to speak at one of  your events, please fill out a Request for Administrative Appearance. 

Organization awards.
Every Spring, student leaders and top organizations are recognized at the Applauding Excellence ceremony. Check out some of the Student Organization Awards that are available. 

Ensure a smooth transition of a leadership team.
Leadership Transition is a common yet important part of an organizations life cycle. Effective transition can make a great deal of difference in the success of the organization in the years to come. 

Coordinate volunteers from within and outside your group. 
Having a Bill of Rights for Volunteers is a good way for both the organization and the individuals to gain from the partnership. A strong volunteer base can accomplish great things but it does require effort to develop and maintain.