Student Organizations & Involvement at Otterbein

Becoming involved in student organizations at Otterbein will add an important dimension to your life. In addition to having a lot of fun, you will make new friends, contribute to important causes and learn new skills.

Our numerous student organizations offer many opportunities beyond the classroom that will introduce you to new experiences, build communication and leadership skills and instill a pride in your campus community.

Contact the Center for Student Involvement for information about how to contact these organizations.

Check out our student organizations by category:

Academic & Professional

Animal Health Science Club
Otterbein’s Animal Health Science Club is geared toward strengthening post-graduation plans for students majoring in Zoo & Conservation Science, Equine Veterinary Technology, Equine Pre-Veterinary/Pre-graduate Studies, or any student with the intentions of applying to veterinary school. This organization shall strive to encourage, inform and prepare its members by providing opportunities in leadership, career exploration, and professional networking. This organization will use its knowledge and abilities to benefit animal related charities and promote a sense of appreciation and understanding of animal related issues in the community.

Botanical Society of America
Otterbein University Student Chapter, This organizationis affiliated with the Botanical Society of America Organization. This organization gives us national recognition as a student chapter. This organization can provide research grants as well as grants for other activities that this chapter might perform throughout the year.

Computer Science Club
The organization aims to provide all students a space to learn about, practice, and discuss computer science and programming, to prepare students for jobs in the tech industry, and to foster a welcoming social environment for students interested in computing.

Health Professions Club
The Health Professions Club is a group developed by students for students to help aid in professional development, provide opportunities for professional networking and social interaction and provide community service in the area of Health and Physical Education. Events include attending workshops and professional events, developing community workshops, and networking with current professionals.

Otterbein Actuarial Science Club
This club educates students about the actuarial profession and furthers the goals of those students who are interested in pursuing a career in actuarial science.

Otterbein Collegiate Middle Level Association (OCMLA)
OCMLA is a professional educational organization for college students preparing to become middle level teachers, and an affiliate of the National Middle School Association. The aim of this organization is to advance and support appropriate middle level education while promoting collegiate participation at national, state, and regional middle level conferences. Membership is open to all education majors.

Otterbein University Pre-Law Society
The purpose of this organization, the Otterbein University Pre-Law Society shall be to gather students who have a common interest in law. This organization shall be used to support students who are interested in attending law school and/or pursuing a legal career. The organization will allow students to interact with other students who share a common interest in legal studies. At the Otterbein University Pre-Law Society (OUPLS), we will discuss information about the LSAT, host study groups on campus or via zoom for the LSAT, and discuss the law school application process or what pre-law students should focus on during their undergraduate years. We will also organize field trips to visit court proceedings, invite visiting law professionals, politicians, and professors to lecture, attend programs of political or legal interest and visit museums or places to expand our knowledge about the legal profession.

Otterbein Student Education Association (OSEA)
OSEA is a professional development organization for all education majors attending Otterbein University. Students involved in OSEA have opportunities to attend events focused on a variety of educational topics, including classroom management, resume writing, interviewing tips, and classroom technology resources. Through social events, OSEA allows its members to connect with other passionate educators while simultaneously building valuable skills needed to become an effective educator.

Otterbein University Student Branch of the American Society for Microbiology
This organization promotes the study of microbiology and support for academic, professional, and community involvement within the experience of students in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program at Otterbein University.

Otterbein University Student Chapter of the American Chemical Society
This organization allows students of chemical science to become better acquainted, to secure the intellectual stimulation that arises from professional association, to obtain experience in preparing and presenting technical material before chemical audiences, to foster a professional spirit among the members, to instill a professional pride in the chemical sciences, and to foster an awareness of the responsibilities and challenges of the modern chemist.

Otterbein University Student Nursing Association (OUSNA)
Otterbein University Student Nursing Association (OUSNA) is a student branch of the national (NSNA) and state (OSNA) Student Nursing Associations. Its major goals are to contribute to nursing education, to provide programs of professional interest and concerns, and to aid in the development of the whole person and his/her professional role. OUSNA provides speakers, fundraisers, and service opportunities to help meet these goals.

Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), Otterbein Chapter
Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is a pre-professional organization designed for students who are interested in learning more about the field of public relations. Students from all majors are welcome to join. The organization features speakers from a variety of public relations settings, mentorships with professionals, attendance at local, regional and national conferences and internship experiences. The Otterbein chapter is affiliated with the Central Ohio (professional) PRSA Chapter.

Sport Management Club
The purpose of this club is to provide professional development opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in sport and to offer programs that promote and foster awareness in the field of sport management. Students will have the opportunity to:

  • Gain managerial experience
  • Provide leadership opportunities
  • Provide professional development opportunities
  • Communicate with alumni/professionals in the field

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Community Service

CardinalCorps Leaders
The CardinalCorps is a student volunteer network facilitated by the CardinalCorps Leaders (CCLs). CCLs lead eleven weekly service organizations through the Center for Community Engagement, including: Sports Pals, America Reads, Club Whittier, Grandma’s House, GARA (Girls are Really Awesome), ChickChat, BROtime, Raise Your Voice, GirlTalk, The Otterbein Animal Coalition, and Plan-it Earth. If you are interested in volunteering with the CardinalCorps please check out their website.

OTTERTHON
OTTERTHON, serves help Nationwide Children’s Hospital as they give quality care to children through funds that we raise for the hospital. We work to excite students about the cause to ensure we adequately educate Otterbein students about OTTERTHON and motivate them to raise funds for the kids.

More Involvement Opportunities in Cultural Engagement & Awareness

Center for Community Engagement
At Otterbein University’s Center for Community Engagement (CCE), we believe that even small acts can change the world. And we believe that there are many ways to change the world. So we offer a variety of volunteer opportunities in areas that range from planting trees to tutoring children, and from walking dogs to scrapbooking with senior citizens. For those who want to volunteer a few hours each term, and for those who want to volunteer several hours each week, we have it all!

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Commuter Student Association

The Commuter Student Association works to provide activities specifically for Otterbein’s commuting population. The group works to promote issues effecting commuters. This organization works out of the Commuter Lounge.

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Creative & Performing Arts

11th Hour Theatre Company
11th Hour Theatre Company is for students to be able to create art with skills learned in the classroom. A group like this, designed specifically for educational purposes, will help bolster the wide array of opportunities available to Otterbein students and allow students hands-on experience with outside projects, scripted and new, that many desire when not working on mainstage productions.

Cap and Dagger
The purpose of Cap and Dagger shall be to foster the dramatic arts on the campus of Otterbein University and to advance the interests of students involved in productions of and the activities surrounding the Otterbein University Theatre program.

Kappa Kappa Psi
Kappa Kappa Psi promotes the existence and welfare of the college and university bands and cultivates at large a wholesome respect for their activities and achievement. Individuals who are members of University bands and meet eligibility requirements are invited to join this honorary.

Mainstage Improv Troupe
Mainstage Improv is a student-run comedy troupe whose mission is to entertain students throughout the semester in a fun, free, and friendly atmosphere. The organization holds auditions for membership at various times throughout the academic year.

Ottertuned
Ottertuned is a mixed, student-run pop a cappella group that is open for all Otterbein students to participate in. Information about auditions is shared with the Otterbein community regularly.

Starving Artists
This organization promotes the appreciation and education of art throughout the Otterbein community as well as to promote and develop the artwork of Otterbein art students. To fulfill their mission, Starving Artists offers an open membership to any person at Otterbein who is interested in promoting and developing a self-and off campus, and community outreach programs with area schools.

More Involvement Opportunities in Creative & Performing Arts

Music Ensembles
Otterbein’s outstanding Department of Music sponsors many instrumental and vocal ensembles. Membership is open to all students, including non-majors, although initial or annual auditions are required for some ensembles. Visit the Department of Music’s webpage for details about the many ensembles at Otterbein which include:

  • Bands (Marching Band & Pep Band)
  • Chamber Music
  • Choirs
  • Jazz
  • Keyboard
  • Opera
  • Orchestras

Student Media & Publications
Otterbein students have various opportunities to contribute to publications and media endeavors from poetry to radio there’s something for everyone.

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Cultures & Diversity

Black Student Union (BSU)
Originally founded as the AfricanAmerican Student Union, and renamed as the Black Student Union in January 2023, serves to promote unity and cooperation among black students and all students with similar interests and/or backgrounds. Membership is open to any Otterbein student who supports and respects the heritage, legacies and cultural traditions of black people.

FreeZone! (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and Allies Organization)
Originally founded in 1992, FreeZone! serves gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender students and their allies. FreeZone! provides support, education, and networking opportunities within the context of regular meetings, social gatherings, activist efforts, and various special events. Contact Wesley Strobel for more information or visit FreeZone! on Facebook or check them out on Twitter @OtterbeinFZ.

Heritage of Latino Americans (HOLA)
Heritage of Latino Americans (HOLA) promotes a sense of community and pride among Latino American students at Otterbein. The organization promotes friendship and cooperation among all students and fosters encouragement, academic excellence and cultural appreciation of Latino American students.

Men of Vision
Men of Vision is an organization of Otterbein male student leaders. This organization promotes male leadership within the Otterbein community, recognizing the importance of developing and exchanging views and ideas among college men on campus. The goals are to encourage Otterbein males to become active in leadership roles and service on and off campus, in addition to enhancing and further developing the skills and talents of male student leaders. Men of Vision works collaboratively with other student organizations, such as Sisters United.

Otterbein Deaf Culture Club
The Otterbein Deaf Culture Club (ODCC) works to promote Deaf awareness on campus and in the community through service and events. No prior knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL) is required to join.

Sisters United
Serves to develop a sense of community and uplift all women of color in their academic and social endeavors here at Otterbein; to promote friendship, service and cooperation amongst all women of color at Otterbein; and to raise awareness and address the issues of stereotypes against the entire community of women of color

More Involvement Opportunities in Cultural Engagement & Awareness

Otterbein Study Abroad
From study abroad to immersion opportunities with Otterbein’s international students, you’re invited to gain greater insight into the greater global community.

The Office of Social Justice & Activism Programs & Resources
Whether you consider yourself diverse or simply admire all the diversity the world has to offer, make it a part of your Otterbein experience. The Office of Social Justice & Activism hosts programs for you to explore diverse populations academically, culturally, and socially – you never know, you might make a new friend!

Gospel Choir
The Otterbein Gospel Choir was organized in the fall of 1990 to give students a medium to express their culture through music, in the form of standard, traditional and contemporary gospel songs. Today the choir is more diverse than ever, and full of students who enjoy singing! The choir performs annually for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Convocation and Gospel Festival, and also accepts engagements for area churches, schools, and other organizations.

William Henry Fouse House of Black Culture (HBC)
The House of Black Culture was named after Otterbein’s first African-American graduate, William Henry Fouse. The HBC, established in 1994, serves as a meeting and social space for African-American students. The house offers living space to five individuals who are involved in the African-American Student Union and/or other diversity organizations on campus. The HBC promotes cultural exchange through programming and discussions for the Otterbein community. The HBC also assists the Office of Diversity in co-hosting various programs throughout the year.

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Greek Life: Fraternities & Sororities

Fraternities and Sororities

We have six local sororities, six local fraternities, two national fraternities, and three National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) chapters. Our local organizations exist only at Otterbein University, while national organizations have chapters at different colleges and universities across the country.

Interfraternity Council

Greek Governing Councils

  • InterFraternity Council (IFC) Fraternities, Contact Blake Newland for more information.
  • Panhellenic Council (Panhel) Sororities, Contact Hannah Paeth for more information.

InterFraternity Council (IFC) Fraternities

Panhellenic Council

Panhellenic Council (Panhel) Sororities

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) Chapters

  • Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (Omicron Rho City-Wide Chapter) (Currently Active)
    • Capital Univeristy
    • Ohio Wesleyan University
    • Otterbein University
  • Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Pi Gamma City-Wide Chapter) (Currently Active)
    • Capital University
    • Denison University
    • Ohio Dominican University
    • Ohio Wesleyan University
    • Otterbein University
  • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Nu Phi City-Wide Chapter) (Currently Active)
    • Capital University
    • DeVry University
    • Franklin University
    • Mount Carmel University of Nursing
    • Ohio Dominican University
    • Ohio Wesleyan University
    • Otterbein University

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

“An empowered organization is one in which individuals have the knowledge, skill, desire, and opportunity to personally succeed in a way that leads to collective organizational success.”

Stephen R. Covey

Student Government

There are many ways to get involved in Student Government. Some individuals will run for office to be elected, some Senators are appointed, and still other students have the opportunity to be appointed to University committees through Student Government. If you have any questions on getting involved with Student Government please contact the executive officers at studentgovernment@otterbein.edu or Student Government Advisor, Tiffany Stokes.

Elections

There are two elections held each year, the Primary Election in the spring term and the Fall Election at the beginning of fall term. All officers and a majority of all Senators are elected in the spring. Incoming first-year students can learn more about running for office during their orientation this summer.

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Engagement at CSE@otterbein.edu

Honor Societies

Alpha Lambda Delta/Phi Eta Sigma (ALDPES)
Alpha Lambda Delta/Phi Eta Sigma are national academic honorary societies for students who have achieved at least a 3.5 GPA and are in the top 20 percent of their class in their first year of college. Eligible students are invited to lifetime membership in Otterbein’s merged chapter after fall semester of their freshman year. Members who continue to maintain high academic standing are eligible for various awards and scholarships, including fellowships for graduate study. The honorary society members may participate in a variety of community service and membership events.

Eta Sigma Gamma
The mission of the organization is promotion of the discipline by elevating the standards, ideals, competence and ethics of professionally prepared men and women in Health Education and those with a general interest in health and wellness.

Iota Iota Iota (Tri-Iota)
Tri-Iota (Iota Iota Iota) works to encourage and support scholarship and excellent in women’s, gender, and sexuality studies, as well as embody the values central to women’s, gender, and sexuality studies at Otterbein University: plurality of thought, egalitarianism, and social justice.

Psi Chi
Psi Chi is an invitation only honor society for Psychology majors. Psi Chi sponsors the Psych Psymposium speaker series and plans other activities relevant to psychology and to applying for graduate school. Psi Chi also sponsors national and regional under-graduate and graduate research award programs, and publishes a quarterly national newsletter to inform members of Psi Chi’s opportunities at all levels.

More Honorary Academic Recognition

Lambda Pi Eta
Otterbein University Department of Communication’s Lambda Pi Eta Chapter is named Iota. To be inducted into this national communication honorary a student must be of junior standing with a minimum 3.5 GPA. Scholarship and service are trademarks of this honorary.

Phi Sigma Iota
Phi Sigma Iota is the National Honorary Romance Language and Literature Society. Its purpose is to foster the appreciation and study of all foreign languages and their respective literature and culture.

Pinnacle
This is an honorary for Continuing Studies students with junior status and a 3.5 GPA.

Torch and Key
Torch and Key is an honorary for the recognition of distinctive achievement in general scholarship. Seniors and juniors with exceptional cumulative records are elected (3.7 GPA).

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Religious & Spiritual

Muslim Student Association
This organization provides a support system for Muslim students on campus as well as provide awareness and education for non-Muslim students on campus.

Otterbein Catholic Student Ministry
Otterbein Catholic Student Ministry is a community of students striving towards sainthood. We help each other grow spiritually and invite anyone interested in the Catholic faith – all are welcome! We gather every Thursday at 4pm in the Chapel for prayer, study and fellowship. We also carpool to Mass every Sunday. There are many opportunities to engage in community service and retreats as well!

Otterbein Christian Fellowship
Otterbein Christian Fellowship is a welcoming, caring community seeking God together. If you’re exploring faith, we’d love for you to join us as you seek answers. We focus on equipping Christians and non-Christians with the resources needed to live and grow.
Weekly activities include Thursday meetings at 8pm, X-Time (the extra time where we all hangout and have a blast), Monday Fuel (Prayer) at 9:30pm, Bible Studies, and various fun events and retreats. Visit our website. We hope you join us!

More Involvement Opportunities in Religious & Spiritual Life

Religious & Spiritual Life Council
The Religious & Spiritual Life Council (RSLC) is the supervisory supporting and coordinating body for all religious activities and programs at Otterbein. As an inclusive and ecumenical body, the Council invites people of various religious traditions and heritages to gather together in this common ministry. RSLC’s membership consists of representatives from each of the religious organizations on campus, and members-at-large (i.e., anyone interested in being a part of planning religious activities). RSLC sponsors a variety of experiences and events throughout the year including special worship services, weekend retreats, participation in the Franklin County Crop Walk, Campus Sharing Day, and several opportunities for discussion, Bible study and spiritual enrichment.

Religious Life & Chaplain’s Office
Learn more about opportunities provided by Otterbein’s Religious Life & Chaplain’s Office.

Habitat for Humanity
The campus chapter of Habitat for Humanity International enables and encourages students to combat poverty housing issues. The three main functions of the organization include building, fund-raising, and educating the community.

Humble Dance
A group of women who fear, thank, and praise God through dance. Our mission is to praise God with every part of our bodies in the hope that through our dancing, it will touch someone’s lives, while creating a Christian environment where we can encourage, teach, and strengthen each others faith through fellowship.

For more information about these organizations, please contact the Center for Student Engagement.

Special Interest

Birderbein
Serves to educate others about the importance and wonder of birds both local and worldwide; filling a leading role in conservation or research projects regarding birds, and providing a space for individuals that share a passion or interest in birds, to go birding with!

Campus Activities Board (CAB)
CAB provides programs of a cultural, recreational, social and educational nature to the Otterbein University community and provides students and staff with opportunities to shape their environment through the selection, production, and evaluation of those events. Additionally, CAB actively encourages multicultural understanding, acceptance and appreciation through programming and co-sponsorship with other organizations.

Gamers Guild
This group brings gamers together to meet others who like the same games. They also sponsor tournaments and other events to encourage community and camaraderie.

Otterbein Animal Conservation Club
The Otterbein Animal Conservation Club strives to promote awareness of animal conservation, especially those of endangered and threatened status. This organization is open to anyone with a general interest in making a difference in the lives of the world’s threatened wildlife.

OtterPAWS
OtterPAWS serves to provide Otterbein a connection which allows students to train service dogs. They hope to gain awareness and interest in the student body to aid in the education of proper etiquette around working animals.

Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity (URGE)
URGE stands for spreading awareness about reproductive justice issues, sexual health, and creating a safe sexual environment in general. We want students to have access to information about sex and reproductive issues in a safe, informed, environment.

More Special Interest Involvement Opportunities

Commuter Student Association
The Commuter Student Association works to provide activities specifically for Otterbein’s commuting population. The group works to promote issues effecting commuters.

For more information about these organizations please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Sports & Recreational

Otterbein’s Intramural Sports League
The Intramural Sports program at Otterbein University offers a variety of recreational and competitive sports leagues and is dedicated to providing a fun, engaging social experience for all participants. The staff is committed to fostering/developing three core pillars: Play, Inclusion, and Community. Contact Jane Kidder for more information.

For more information about these organizations please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Other Involvement Opportunities in Athletics & Recreation

Cardinal Dance Team
Cardinal Dance Team performs at basketball games and some community events. The team is open to all students by audition only.

Cheerleading
The football and basketball cheerleading programs are profiled on the Athletics website.

Fitness and Recreation
Learn more about options for having fun and keeping fit on campus on the Fitness and Recreation site.

Otterbein Equestrian Teams
The Otterbein University Equestrian Teams have something valuable to offer horse people of all experience levels. These opportunities are open to all, even those who choose not to ride and/or compete. Those who choose not to ride are invited and encouraged to participate in all team functions such as social gatherings, campouts, picnics, horse shows, and invitations.

Student Media & Publications

AEGIS Humanities Journal
Aegis is a multilingual journal designed to catalyze a deeper critical appreciation of the humanities at Otterbein University. The journal is published once yearly in the spring and includes Otterbein student’s scholarly essays and book reviews that advance the presence and values of the humanities on campus and beyond. Submissions are read by a student panel during winter quarter to decide which selections will be published.

www.Otterbein360.com
Otterbein360 is the independently organized and operated student news outlet at Otterbein University. It is an award winning publication which prides itself on its professional attitude quality reporting and relatable journalism. This digital only publication offers practical experience editing stories, honing writing skills and composing images. A great resume builder, Otterbein360 requires nothing but an eagerness to learn and a passion for storytelling. Whether through written word, photography or graphic design, Otterbein360 strives to tell the stories that the campus community cares about most.

Kate
Kate is a feminist publication. The name was chosen in honor of Otterbein’s first female graduate, Kate Hanby. Otterbein was the first college to admit women to all levels of study, first in hiring women faculty, and one of the first colleges to admit African Americans.

Quiz & Quill
Quiz & Quill is a creative writing group open to all students. quiz & quill publishes a chapbook each fall, a spring magazine, and holds several creative writing contests and literary readings.

WOBN – University Radio Station
WOBN operates at 97.5 FM.. The station plays a wide variety of music showcase programs and has a core format of alternative music. WOBN broadcasts over 100 sporting events each year (football, basketball, baseball, soccer) and also features news and talk shows. No experience or specific major is required. Learn to broadcast “on air” or help in promotions, sports, news or public service. Just come to the meetings or stop in our studios in the Communication Building and we’ll do the rest!

Otterbein.tv – University Television Station
Otterbein.tv is a student operated cable station that is owned and supported by the City of Westerville. A well-equipped control room, studio, and an Otterbein.tv remote production van provides the resources to produce programming focusing on Westerville, Otterbein and the surrounding community. All Otterbein students are invited to participate in the station. Interested students may attend the weekly organizational meeting held in the Otterbein.tv studio.

For more information about these organizations please contact the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Start your own student organization!

5 Easy Steps to Becoming a Recognized Student Organization

  • Meet with the Center for Student Involvement
    • Email the Center for Student Involvement at CSI@otterbein.edu or call 614-823-3202 to set up an appointment.
    • Be prepared to talk about the purpose of your organization.
    • You must have an employee of Otterbein University willing to serve as your advisor.
  • Submit a New Student Organization Petition
    • Submit your New Student Organization Petition to the Student Organization Development Committee of the Otterbein University Student Government.
    • Once reviewed and approved you will gain Pending Status for up to 12-months.
  • Recruit members for your organization and select officers.
    • During this one year (maximum) probationary period you may function as a registered student organization.
    • You have one year to become fully registered and complete all of the registration requirements. Take your time and begin enacting the purpose of your organization.
  • Final approval from the Student Organization Development Committee
    • Submit all required registration materials (and Charter Application) to the Student Organization Development Committee within 12-months.
    • Submit a Constitution for review and approval. (Please see the Student Organization Constitution Guidelines document for more information.)
    • Once the Constitution and registration requirements have been reviewed you may be asked to attend a Student Organization Development Committee Meeting to answer questions about your organization.
    • The Student Organization Development Committee may ask you to make revisions to your Constitution.
  • Approval from Otterbein University Student Government
    • After the Student Organization Development Committee approves the Constitution and registration material, it will be sent to the Otterbein University Student Government for final approval.
    • Once these steps are complete you will be granted recognition as a student organization. In certain cases, the group may need approval of the Board of Trustees before recognition is granted. The advisors and the president of the considered group will receive notification of the decision. Please be advised the final approval or denial usually requires four to eight weeks from the date of submission.

Student Organization Constitution Guidelines and Requirements

The Constitution will be the guide in a consistent and fair standard of consideration of new organizations and evaluating continuing organizations. The Student Organization Development Committee of the Otterbein University Student Government will use the following criteria as its guidelines in the review of new and edited Constitutions and consideration for the approval of new student organizations at Otterbein University. All new constitutions must be typed and submitted to the Center for Student Involvement in a clear and precise form. Electronic submission in a Word document is required. Constitutions must include the following:

  • The organization should have a name not presently used by any other recognized student organization.
  • The purpose of the organization should be clearly stated.
  • Officers’ requirements and functions must be stated.
  • Procedures for election of officers must be stated, and the voting margins of elections must be stated, i.e., simple majority or plurality.
  • The organization must have one advisor that is an employee of Otterbein University.
  • Meeting requirements must be stated (i.e., how many times a week, month, etc.).
  • Attendance requirements must be specified. If there are no attendance requirements this must be stated as well.
  • Expulsion requirements and procedures must be specified.
  • Financial obligations of the members must be specified. If there are no financial requirements this must be stated as well.
  • Processes for amendments to the constitution must be stated.
  • The following sentence must be stated in the constitution, verbatim: Any student of Otterbein University regardless of sex, marital or parental status, race, color, religion, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, military status, or veteran status is eligible for membership in this organization. *Registered fraternities and sororities should contact the Center for Student Involvement to verify their appropriate statement.
  • All organizations must be open to all students with the exception of the following classifications of groups, which are permitted to have eligibility requirements: Academic and Professional, Fraternities and Sororities, Honor Societies and Groups. The Student Organization Development Committee will determine if the organization’s classification is proper.

Please refer to the Student Organization Constitution Guidelines for a full listing and description of the requirements, sample layout, and sample constitution.

Student Organization Policies

As part of the Otterbein University community, campus organizations represent and are considered accountable to the college. The college, in turn, is responsible for their actions. Therefore, all campus organizations as well as the individuals who compose the college community are expected to abide by the Otterbein University policies and regulations as they apply to them. Please read the Campus Life Handbook for a full listing of organization policies. Constitutions must include the following:

  • All events sponsored by student organizations must be scheduled on the college calendar. Contact Student Affairs (823-1591) to schedule an event. You can also pick up calendaring policies and request forms from the Student Affairs Office.
  • Religious and Spiritual organizations must attend all Religious Life Council meetings. Please contact Chaplain, Judy Guion-Utsler for more information.
  • Campus sales and solicitations must follow the established guidelines found in the Campus Life Handbook.
  • Policies as they apply to alcohol and gambling should be considered and referred to as they affect decision-making within campus organizations. Please see the Campus Life Handbook for these policies.
  • Some student organizations require students be enrolled full-time, having at least 12 hours of courses per term except graduating seniors. Please check with the respective organization to see if the organization requires full-time status.
  • Amended constitutions must be re-submitted to the Student Organization Development Committee for approval when the amendments have an effect on any of the constitution requirements or guidelines listed in the Student Organization Constitution Guidelines and Requirements document.
  • Student organizations must renew the status of their organization annually. The information needed for renewal includes online renewal form, leadership and membership roster, advisor agreement, and an updated constitution. Renewal requirements must be completed by the third Friday of fall term to receive benefits of continual renewal. Organizations that fail to do this will be considered “inactive” and will not receive the privileges afforded recognized groups.
  • The responsibility for seeing these and other University regulations are followed lies with the individual organization and failure to comply with University regulations may result in disciplinary action.