Student Organization Sponsors

Sponsors of student organizations play a very important role in the development of the organization and its members. Sponsors serve as mentors to the members of the student organization. A sponsor helps the students develop leadership skills such as: time management, delegating, decision-making, critical thinking, and prioritizing, to name a few. The sponsor should in no way make decisions for the students. It is important that they develop these skills.

Criteria for Student Organization Sponsor
The sponsor will be nominated by the prospective student organization's membership. A prospective sponsor shall be a full-time employee (faculty, staff, or administration) of Palo Alto College.

It is the responsibility of the sponsor to attend all meetings and activities (both on and off campus) of the organization or the sponsor may designate another PAC Representative (must be full time Faculty or Staff).

Sponsors provide guidance to the organization, and should be familiar with the guidelines regarding student organizations.

Sponsors should ensure the activities of the organization conform to general College policy.

Student Organizations exist for the development of the students involved. Sponsors lend advice and support, but should let the students determine the course for the organization.

Student Organizations should not feel obligated to participate in the activities and/or functions of their sponsor.

Although the sponsor’s signature is required on the petty cash form, the Organization does not need the sponsor’s permission to use funds.