Unofficial Student Groups

Sacred Heart University recognizes that students may form friendships and communities outside Student Involvement’s officially recognized student clubs and organizations. While these informal groups are valuable for connection, they are considered unofficial student groups and not recognized by the University. Student organizations are considered officially recognized when they complete required documentation and receive formal approval from the Student Involvement and the CCO.  

More Information

Recognition helps ensure club and organization activities are safe, well-supported and sustainable for future students.

Becoming an officially recognized student club or organization comes with major benefits, including: 

  • Access to funding and budget support
  • Ability to reserve campus spaces and host events
  • Use of SHU marketing channels (SHU Engage, print requests, social media, etc.)
  • Faculty/staff adviser support and training 

Unofficial student groups cannot:

  • Reserve campus space, hold recruitment events, request funding or utilize University services such as event support, marketing or SHU Engage 
  • Request funding, collect dues, manage external bank accounts or operate as independent organizations under the SHU name
  • Gain SHU sponsorship or support for any events, activities and on- or off-campus gatherings (students participate at their own risk) Use the University’s name, logo or branding in any materials, social media or communications

All recognized student clubs and organizations must be student initiated, student led and student operated. While faculty and staff may serve as advisers, mentors or supporters, they may not establish, direct or operate student clubs/organizations. Any group that is primarily managed or controlled by faculty or staff members will not be recognized as a club/organization. This ensures that the club/organization system remains focused on student leadership, growth and accountability. 
  
Further, while faculty and staff can serve as important advisers, mentors and supports to officially recognized student clubs, they cannot establish, direct or operate student clubs/organizations.  Any group that is primarily managed or controlled by faculty or staff members will not be recognized as a club/organization. This ensures that the club/organization system remains focused on student leadership, growth and accountability.