The Office of Student Union and Activities enforces procedures for student organizations to use campus facilities.
Organizations have complete facility request forms, attend anti-hazing workshops and complete an organization checklist.
Although some organizations have always been required to follow these procedures, some have not.
Janeen Talbott, 20, a third-year magazine production student from N.Y., said that her organization, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority used to meet in Tucker Hall to conduct business without filling out a facility request form.
“No, I had no idea,” Talbott said on the news policy. “It’s news to me. We just go in there and find a room.”
The rules, according to Saundra Inge, director of student activities, have been in effect for years.
“Nothing has changed about the rules,” said Inge. “The only change in the club and organization’s procedures in the past 20 years has been a change from the use of social security numbers to student identification numbers.”
Felicia Barnes, coordinator of student affairs, admitted the office did not enforce rules before this semester.
“In the past we have been a little lenient,” Barnes said.
The guidelines are set to provide structure and safety to organizations utilizing facilities on campus after business hours.
In an effort to ensure the information is disseminated to all organizations, any addendums or changes are sent via student and personal emails. These emails are sent to both active and non-active student organizations on campus.
Harvey Ross, 19, a third-year civil engineering student, who currently serves as the press and publicity chair for Progressive Black Men, said he was informed of the procedures at an OSA breakfast held earlier in the semester.
Ross does not have a problem with the rules themselves, but rather the special consideration that is given to some organizations.
“Everyone has a fair chance to get the materials they need.” Ross said. “The rules are fair, but sometimes it seems like they show favoritism.”
Ross’ concern may have been a problem in the past, but Inge is currently planning to hold every organization to the same standard.
“Special considerations that have been allowed in previous years are no longer acceptable,” Inge said.