1. education
2. graduate school
3. college

2013-2014
STUDENT ORGANIZATION
MANUAL
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Student Organizations ................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Student Organizations Defined ................................................................................................................................................... 3
Student Organization Responsibilities and Expectations ............................................................................................................ 4
Privileges of Student Organizations ............................................................................................................................................ 4
MyBC ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Governance of Student Organizations ......................................................................................................................................... 5
Community Standards for Student Organizations ...................................................................................................................... 5
Sanctions .................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Organizations at Boston College ................................................................................................................................................. 7
Registering a New Organization ................................................................................................................................................ 7
Annual Re-Registration Process ............................................................................................................................................... 8
Specifically Prohibited Groups ................................................................................................................................................. 8
Members, Executive Board, and Advisors ................................................................................................................................ 9
Executive Board Eligibility ....................................................................................................................................................... 9
Student Organization Advisor Role .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Primary Contact Checklist ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Student Organization Funding ................................................................................................................................................ 10
Student Organization Funding Committee .............................................................................................................................. 10
Funds Administration .............................................................................................................................................................. 10
SOFC Charter .......................................................................................................................................................................... 10
Understanding Your Chartstring .............................................................................................................................................. 11
Fundraising .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Ticket Sales .............................................................................................................................................................................. 11
Policy and Procedure ................................................................................................................................................................ 12
University Policy .................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Hazing Policy .......................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Massachusetts Law Against Hazing ......................................................................................................................................... 12
Examples of Hazing ............................................................................................................................................................... 14
Student Organization Space and Event Procedure ................................................................................................................ 15
Requesting a Space .................................................................................................................................................................. 15
How to Submit an Online Space Request ............................................................................................................................... 15
Requesting an Event ............................................................................................................................................................... 16
How to Submit a MyBC Event ................................................................................................................................................ 16
Event Approval ........................................................................................................................................................................ 17
Event Requirements ................................................................................................................................................................. 17
Event Approval Deadlines ....................................................................................................................................................... 18
Prominent Event Procedure .................................................................................................................................................... 18
Outside Events with Amplification ......................................................................................................................................... 19
Intercollegiate Dance Events .................................................................................................................................................. 19
Using Boston College Indicia ................................................................................................................................................. 20
Posting Policy .......................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Flyers/Posting ........................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Banner ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Posters ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Residence Hall Posting Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 25
Distribution Policy and Procedure ........................................................................................................................................... 25
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Student Organization Support Services .................................................................................................................................. 26
Boston College Police Department ......................................................................................................................................... 26
Bureau of Conferences ............................................................................................................................................................ 27
Media Technology Services ................................................................................................................................................ 27
Robsham Theater Box Office ................................................................................................................................................. 27
Student Programs Office ......................................................................................................................................................... 27
INTRODUCTION
This manual is a guide to all Student Organizations at Boston College. It is not a complete record of all policy and
procedures at Boston College. Student organizations should consult the student guide at www.bc.edu/studentguide
and the Boston College Policy Manual for additional policy and procedure that govern their activity.
The Student Programs Office is responsible for the registration and oversight of all organizations at Boston College.
The Campus Ministry and Campus Recreation departments have been given the responsibility of managing
religious organizations and club sports respectively and are closely aligned with the Student Programs Office in
order to effectively advise the organizations and sports that fall within their purview. The policy outlined in this
manual, except where otherwise specified by Campus Ministry and Campus Recreation, applies to all Registered
Student Organizations at Boston College. Campus Ministry Organizations and Club Sports should consult those
departments for specific policy and financial procedures that may govern their activity.
This manual will assist student organizations and advisors with the development and management of events that
enhance the educational and social experience at Boston College. All students are encouraged to explore the
myriad opportunities for involvement and to inquire of the Student Programs Office about ways to take flight at
Boston College.
For the most updated Student Organization resources please visit www.bc.edu/spo or
https://orgsync.com/38855/files.
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
A Student Organization is a group of undergraduate students that are committed to enriching the learning
environment through extracurricular programs and activities. Student Organizations are open to all full-time,
currently enrolled Boston College undergraduate students. No organization will be allowed to institute or exercise
discriminatory practices. Organizations may be allowed to retain both their gender specificity and strict selection
criteria based on special talent/skill or individual merit with approval. Campus Ministry and Campus Recreation
may also recognize organizations that are gender specific.
All organizations are responsible for abiding by the rules and regulations (academic, financial, etc.) that govern
Student Organizations. Registration of an organization is in no way an implicit approval of the activity, views, or
stances that may be taken by Student Organizations, or its members. The membership and leadership of Student
Organizations are solely responsible for the views, stances, and activity of the organization. Organizations must
acknowledge that its programs, events, views, and activities, or the views, opinions, ideas, or actions of those whom
they invite to the University, do not imply support or acceptance by Boston College.
In order to operate as a Student Organization, organizations must:
 Be in good standing with the Student Programs Office and Boston College
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Be consistent with the Jesuit, Catholic mission of Boston College
Have a Faculty/Staff Advisor
Create and Maintain a MyBC account (http://www.bc.edu/mybc)
Review constitution annually and update as needed
Have at least ten undergraduate members
Abide by all rules and regulations outlined in this manual
Meet the standard of conduct as set forth by the Student Guide
Complete the memorandum of understanding on hazing
Register annually with the Student Programs Office
Not duplicate any existing Student Organization
Not be funded by an entity external to the University
Complete designated amount of allotted training hours the last day of classes in the spring semester.
Student Organizations may not:
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Endanger the safety of community members or University facilities
Disrupt, or threaten to disrupt University functions/classes
Receive funding from University budgets, departments, or academic units
Violate University policy, or local, state, or federal law
Be aligned with, or representative of, a national, or local social fraternity or sorority
Co-sponsor or partner with organizations or entities unless approved by the Student Programs Office
Conduct business secretly
Student Organizations are responsible for and must meet the following expectations in order to be in good standing
at the University:
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Abide by all University rules and regulations
Abide by the Student Guide
Exercise sound judgment in planning and executing events
Use Student Activity Fee dollars for the purposes for which they were approved
Accept responsibility for any and all damages as a result of events
Take proper care for the maintenance of organizational space
Meet all financial deadlines and complete financial paperwork in accordance with policy
Communicate regularly with their advisor (inform the advisor of all events and activities in advance)
PRIVILEGES OF STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Student Organizations work with the Student Programs Office to attend to the intellectual and social growth and
development of members of the Boston College community. Given the unique role, purpose, and function of these
organizations, Student Organizations enjoy certain privileges. A few of these privileges are:
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Funding eligibility from the Student Organization Funding Committee (SOFC)
Ability to reserve University facilities for meetings, programs, and events
Support from the Bureau of Conferences (BOC) and Boston College Police Department
A University mailbox and mailing address
Ability to advertise meetings, programs, and events on campus
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Access to general organization advising and programmatic support
Leadership and organizational effectiveness training
Inclusion in the fall Student Involvement Fair
Use of University name and tax status
Solicitation of membership on campus
Use of MyBC organizational software
MyBC
As part of your privileges as a Student Organization on campus you have access to and are required to use MyBC
(bc.edu/mybc). MyBC is a student organization and event management portal system hosted by OrgSync. Each
student organization is required to have a presence on MyBC. One of the many tools for organizations within
MyBC is website support and hosting. To access this tool on MyBC you must be an administrator of your
organization’s MyBC portal or have been given access to the website tool by an administrator. If you have
questions about this, please contact the Student Programs Office.
GOVERNANCE OF STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
The Student Programs Office reserves the right and has the absolute authority to register Student Organizations at
Boston College. The Student Programs Office also has the right and authority to review, adjust and amend the
status of Student Organizations, and to suspend the rights and privileges of any Student Organization for any
reason. Boston College values diversity of thought and recognizes that the free expression of ideas is integral to the
educational process. However, organizations whose mission and purpose encourages advocacy of positions that are
not consistent with the mission of Boston College will not be registered, supported, or funded.
Student Organizations, its officers, and members, are expected to meet and abide by the standards set forth in the
Boston College Student Guide. The student guide is updated on a regular basis by the Office of the Dean of
Students and is found at http://www.bc.edu/publications/studentguide/ The Student Guide outlines the standard for
conduct for members of the Boston College community; members of Student Organizations are also governed by
these standards.
COMMUNITY STANDARDS FOR STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Student Organizations, their leaders, and members are expected to be pillars of the community. As such any
violation of this manual or the Boston College Student Guide is taken very seriously, and both the individuals
involved and the student organization will be held accountable for any actions that violate these policies.
Disciplinary action taken against individual members of an Organization will be conducted through the normal
student conduct process outlined in Sections IV and V of the Boston College Student Guide. Student Organizations
that engage in activities that violate any of these policies will be subject to a conduct process as set forth below:
1. An organization accused of violating a University policy will be required to meet with a representative of
the Student Programs Office. The organization will be represented at the meeting by the president or chair
of the organization, or their designee.
2. At this meeting the allegation against the organization will be explained.
3. The organization will be given an opportunity to respond to the allegation.
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4. The SPO representative, in consultation with a member of the Dean of Students Office, will determine
whether there is sufficient evidence to find the organization responsible and impose an appropriate
sanction.
5. The organization may ask that the sanction be reviewed by the Dean of Students Office. This review is not
a re-hearing of the case, it is only to determine if the sanction imposed was within reasonable parameters.
6. The Dean or his designee will review the sanction and make a final decision regarding the sanction and
communicate this decision to the organization and the Student Programs Office. The decision of the
Dean’s office is final.
Student Conduct Records: When an organization is found responsible for violation(s) of the University Code of
Student Conduct or the Organization Manual, a disciplinary record will be established and maintained in the
Student Programs Office.
SANCTIONS
Upon finding an organization responsible for violating the Student Organization Manual and or the Boston College
Student Guide or any other University policy or procedure the following sanctions may be imposed:
1. Warning: Written notice and a meeting with the organization that continued or repeated violations may lead
to further disciplinary action. Additionally, the warning will suggest a reasonable time frame for corrective
action. Should that action not be taken within the specified limits, further sanction may be invoked.
2. Probation: Probation will be levied for a definite period of time. It may include terms and conditions,
including a time frame for corrective action. Further sanctions may be invoked if any term or condition is
not met in a timely fashion.
3. Suspension of official recognition: The suspension shall be levied for a defined period of time during which
all actions and activities of the organization must cease. The actions and activities include (but are not
limited to) programs, socials, fundraisers, membership drives and other events open to the public, and any
event requiring the use of University facilities. In addition, all rights and privileges granted as a result of
being officially recognized may be revoked. Other conditions may be placed upon suspension, including
the submission of a written plan outlining the ways and means of corrective actions to be taken by the
organization.
4. Withdrawal of official recognition: Upon withdrawal of official recognition, the club or organization will
lose all rights and privileges relegated to such status.
5. Other Sanctions: Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, individual members as well as the
collective organization may be sanctioned to appropriate educational tasks. These include, but are not
limited to, educational programs, alcohol and drug referrals, community restitution (service project), and
other appropriate tasks to make reparations for violations.
ORGANIZATIONS AT BOSTON COLLEGE
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Boston College prides itself on the diversity of opportunities offered to students for student involvement, and
encourages students to create new organizations to meet the involvement and service interests of the community.
Organizations at Boston College provide intellectual, spiritual, and social development while enhancing the mission
of the university. Organizations fall within four broad categories, these categories are:
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Campus Ministry Organizations
Club Sports/Athletic Organizations
Student Programs Office Organizations
Undergraduate Government
Campus Ministry Organizations: Religious Organizations allow students to fully explore and express spiritually
in an environment free from judgment. Religious Organizations are supported by Campus Ministry and their
activities center on the free expression of spirituality and religion.
Club Sports/Athletic Organizations: Club Sports are student run sports organizations that arrange activities of a
competitive nature involving physical exertion and skill that is governed by a set of rules or customs.
Student Programs Office Organizations: Student Organizations provide opportunities for leadership development
in various areas. Student Organizations are divided into the following categories: Academic/Pre-Professional;
Honor Societies; Intercultural; Music, Art, and Performance; Political; Publications and Media; Service; and
Specific Issues.
Undergraduate Government: Student government offers students the opportunity to be involved with the
undergraduate governance of Boston College. Primary emphasis is on student government and university wide
issues/programming.
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Student Assembly
Diversity and Inclusion
Student Initiatives
Programming
Student Organizations
REGISTERING A NEW ORGANIZATION
Only Boston College undergraduates may request that the Student Programs Office approve a new student
organization. The Student Programs Office will receive and review requests on a rolling basis. Requests will be
reviewed by the Vice-President for Student Organizations and final decisions regarding registration will be made by
the Student Programs Office. Receipt of a request for registration does not constitute registration. Those requests
that are approved by the Student Programs Office will be required to complete several additional steps before the
new organization is officially registered at Boston College.
Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible to start a new organization during the fall semester. Freshman can
request approval of a new organization starting their second semester.
The process for requesting that a new organization be registered by the Student Programs Office is as follows:
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1. Students can request to Create a New Organization by logging onto MyBC and beginning the approval
process which will be broken down into the following stages:
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Every submission must identify a primary contact that will answer any questions regarding the
proposed student organization during the new student organization request process.
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Every submission must include a proposal that details the name, mission and vision of the proposed
organization. This proposal must also include a statement that addresses how the new organization will
support and enhance student life and the mission of Boston College.
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Every submission must detail the unique nature of the proposed organization. Proposed organizations
must be original and not duplicate current Student Organizations in any way.
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Every submission must include a constitution for the organization.
2. Submissions are reviewed by the UGBC Board of Student Organizations.
3. Recommendations for registration are made by the Board of Student Organizations to the Student Programs
Office
4. The primary contact is notified of the decision of the Student Programs Office.
5. The primary contact of those requests that are accepted for registration will receive detailed instructions
and information regarding the new Student Organization registration process.
ANNUAL RE-REGISTRATION PROCESS
All Student Organizations must register at the end of each academic year with the Student Programs Office. In
order to be registered as a student organization for the next academic year, all Student Organizations must submit a
President/Co-President Certification Form, Vice- President Certification Form, Treasurer Certification form, and
Advisor Agreement form prior to June 15, 2014. Organizations must also update their MyBC profile to include any
changes. Failure to complete these steps will result in loss of privileges for the following academic year.
SPECIFICALLY PROHIBITED GROUPS
Boston College acknowledges the freedom of students to seek membership and form alliances with organizations
outside the University. These memberships and alliances will in no way be recognized or sanctioned by Boston
College. Some organizations, based on the discriminatory nature of their mission or practices, are inherently not
welcome at Boston College. Examples of prohibited organizations in direct conflict with the mission of Boston
College include:
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Secret Societies/Fraternities/Sororities
Commercial/For Profit Groups
Organizations with discriminatory practices/admission criteria
Groups whose mission and purpose encourages advocacy of positions that are not consistent with the
mission of Boston College
MEMBERSHIP/EXECUTIVE BOARD ELIGIBILITY/PRESIDENT & VICE PRESIDENT ELIGIBILITY
All undergraduate students are eligible for membership with any Student Organization, except where otherwise
prohibited, or authorized and approved by the Student Programs Office. All officers of Student Organizations must
be currently enrolled undergraduates. All members of the executive board of the Student Organization must be in
good standing (not on academic or disciplinary probation) with the University. Those members of the executive
board that serve in the role of President/Co-President, Vice-President or Treasurer must have and maintain a 2.5
grade point average. Failure of any executive board member to maintain good standing with the University and the
failure of any president or vice-president to maintain a minimum 2.5 grade point average may result in the removal
from office. Student Organizations are also required to appoint or select a Primary Contact for the organization and
list them as such on their MyBC page. The Primary Contact will serve as a liaison to the Student Programs Office
and the organization advisor.
STUDENT ORGANIZATION ADVISOR ROLE
All Student Organizations must have an advisor that is either a full-time member of the staff or faculty of Boston
College. The advisor is integral to the educational process of the student leader and the development of Student
Organizations. Advisors are responsible for modeling ethical and appropriate behavior for members of Student
Organizations. Their role is to assist with and facilitate student learning. The advisor of a Student Organization will
have a significant influence upon the organization. The advisor helps to mold and shape the club through providing
continuity year after year, through motivating and stimulating the organization, and to interject new ideas and
perspectives. Toward this end, the advisor should consult with the Student Programs Office regularly. In many
ways, the Advisor serves as an extension of the Student Programs Office, while assisting the members of the
organization to develop confidence, character, and competence.
Advisor Responsibilities:
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Provide guidance, while honoring the autonomy of the organization.
Meet with student leaders at least twice a semester and be up to date on the plans of the Student
Organization.
Assist Student Organizations to meet their mission.
Set high expectations of themselves and the students with which they work.
Advocate for the organization they advise
Communicate with the Student Programs Office regarding the activity of the Student Organizations they
advise.
Act as a role model whose conduct is beyond reproach.
PRIMARY CONTACT CHECKLIST
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Update Primary and Secondary Contact on MyBC
Complete President/Co-President, Vice-President, Treasurer Certification Forms
Complete Mid-Year Review
Complete Mandatory Training
o For example: Treasurer Training, President’s Business Meeting, MyBC Training, etc.
 Complete other training requirements
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STUDENT ORGANIZATION FUNDING
STUDENT ORGANIZATION FUNDING COMMITTEE
The Student Organization Funding Committee (SOFC) and the Undergraduate Government of Boston College
(UGBC) are the entities at Boston College that are responsible for the allocation of a portion of the Student Activity
Fee. The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs makes allocations to the SOFC and UGBC of the Student
Activity Fee which is paid each fall and spring by all undergraduate students at Boston College. These allocations
are then used to support the activity of the Campus Ministry Organizations, Club Sports, Student Organizations,
Service Trips, and the Undergraduate Government of Boston College.
The SOFC was created to ensure a fair system of funding for Student Organizations at Boston College. Its mission
is to guarantee a wide array of programs at Boston College, through the disbursement of its portion of the student
activities fee. The SOFC is comprised of undergraduate students and advised by the Student Programs Office.
FUNDS ADMINISTRATION
The Student Organization Funding Committee has the authority and responsibility of dispersing allocations to
organizations in conjunction with the Student Programs Office. The Student Programs Office must authorize all
transfers of funds from the SOFC to organizations, before the transfer of funds request is processed by the Student
Affairs Business Service Center (SABSC). The Student Programs Office has the authority to adjust, reduce, or
restrict funding to organizations as appropriate and must approve all funding decisions of the Student Organization
Funding Committee.
All Student Activity Fee funds that are allocated to Student Organizations and any funds collected by the
organization may not be deposited or held in an account outside the University. All funds allocated by the
SOFC or deposited into a University account are subject to the rules of the SOFC and Boston College policy and
procedure regarding the expenditure of Student Activity Fee funds and donations. The responsibility of abiding by
and adhering to University and SOFC policy regarding the expenditure of funds shall rest with the officers of the
organization and the Student Programs Office.
SOFC CHARTER
The Student Organization Funding Committee is an independent, student-run committee at Boston College
comprised of students who are selected and appointed by members of the SOFC board in consultation with the
Student Programs Office advisor to the SOFC. The SOFC was created to ensure a fair system of funding for
Student Organizations at Boston College. Its mission is to guarantee a wide array of programs at Boston College,
through the disbursement of Student Activities Fees. The chair of the SOFC is the primary contact for questions or
concerns regarding student activity fee funds allocations and the allocation process. The SOFC works closely with
the Student Programs Office to review its policy and procedure annually to ensure that these policies are in keeping
with the mission of the University and of the SOFC. The SOFC meets annually prior to the start of classes to
review primary allocation funds requests and weekly when classes are in session to review requests and make
funding decisions. The SOFC:
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Reviews the primary funding requests for Student Activity Fee dollars of Organizations
Hears appeals of primary funding request
Sets policy regarding the spending of Student Activity Fee funds
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Makes policy recommendations to the Student Programs Office regarding expenditure of Student Activity
Fee funds by organizations
Reviews secondary funding requests for Student Activity Fee dollars of organizations
Develops policy and guidelines to govern the allocation of Student Activity Fee dollars to Organizations
Submits an annual report to the Boston College community regarding the allocation of Student Activity Fee
dollars
Additional information about the membership, role, function and scope of the SOFC may be found at
http://bc.orgsync.com/org/sofc/home or may be obtained by visiting the Student Programs Office at Maloney Hall,
Suite 242.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR STUDENT ORGANIZATION CHARTSTRING
Student Organizations are each assigned a thirty-two digit chartstring. This chartstring is divided into seven fields:
Department (025101),
Fund (920),
Fund Source (5 digits-specific to organization),
Program (00000),
Function (999),
Property (00000), and
*Account (67500)
*The Account field is needed to request space via the room requisition system, but is not used to process
payment requests.
The Student Organization chartstring is the only approved method of processing payments to vendors or
reimbursements to members. Student Organizations are not authorized to establish outside banking accounts. All
funds collected by Student Organizations must be deposited into the chartstring. Members of Student
Organizations may not, under any circumstance, provide payment to vendors.
FUNDRAISING
Student Organizations are strongly discouraged from fundraising. All fundraising must be approved by the Student
Programs Office. All approved fundraising must be conducted using the University’s eMarket system which allows
for the electronic collection of revenue. Student Organizations that wish to raise funds must complete and submit
the eMarket Request Form to the Student Programs Office. The Student Programs Office will not approve or
authorize any cash fundraising. For more information visit www.bc.edu/spo.
TICKET SALES
Any Student Organization engaged in ticket sales must do so through the Robsham Theater Arts Center. Ticket
sales can be requested via the MyBC RTAC Ticket Request form: https://orgsync.com/43868/forms/53252
Student Organizations may be required to designate up to 10% of its anticipated ticket sales for complimentary use
by the Montserrat Coalition. The Montserrat Coalition enables high need students to participate in activities
sponsored by Student Organizations at no cost.
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POLICY AND PROCEDURE
UNIVERSITY POLICY
Student Organizations are expected to read, understand, and comply with those general and specific policies and
procedures that govern the University community. It is understood that all members, associate members, and
officers of Student Organizations are governed by the Boston College Student Guide
(http://www.bc.edu/publications/studentguide/) and are expected to abide by the policy and procedure found
therein. While the student guide addresses individual students, Student Organizations are, as a collective, subject to
all procedures and policies as outlined in sections four and five of the student guide.
HAZING POLICY
BOSTON COLLEGE
Massachusetts Hazing Legislation Compliance Statement
Massachusetts General Law
Chapter 269: HAZING
Sect 17.
Definition; Penalty: Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall
be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not
more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment.
The term “hazing” as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method
of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully or recklessly
endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping,
beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage,
drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect
the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to
extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to
any prosecution under this action.
Section 18.
Reporting Hazing Offenses; Penalty for Failure to Report Violation: Whoever knows that another person is the
victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such
person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement
official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not
more than one thousand dollars.
Section 19.
Notice to schools and colleges; Annual Reports; Adoption of Disciplinary Policy:
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Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post secondary education shall
issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is part of such institution or is recognized
by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as
an unaffiliated student group, student team or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen
and eighteen; provided, however, that an institution’s compliance with this section’s requirements that an institution
issue copies of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to unaffiliated student groups, teams or
organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution’s recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated
student groups, teams or organizations. Each such group, team, or organization shall distribute a copy of this
section and sections seventeen and eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges or applicants for membership.
It shall be the duty of each such group, team or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver
annually, to the institution an attested acknowledgment stating that such group, team or organization has received a
copy of this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, that each of its members, plebes, pledges, or
applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group, team or organization
understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall, at
least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a full time student in such
institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall file,
at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the case of secondary institutions, the board of
education, certifying that such institution has complied with its responsibilities to inform student groups, teams or
organizations and to notify each full time student enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections
seventeen and eighteen and also certifying that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the
organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the
student handbook or similar means of communicating the institution’s policies to its students. The board of regents
and in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content
and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to
make such report.
HAZING DEFINED
“Hazing” refers to any activity expected of someone joining a group (or to maintain full status in a group) that
humiliates, degrades or risks emotional and/or physical harm, regardless of the person's willingness to participate.
Hazing is a complex social problem that is shaped by power dynamics operating in a group and/or organization and
within a particular cultural context.
Hazing activities are generally considered to be: physically abusive, hazardous, and/or sexually violating. The
specific behaviors or activities within these categories vary widely among participants, groups and settings. While
alcohol use is common in many types of hazing, other examples of typical hazing practices include: personal
servitude; sleep deprivation and restrictions on personal hygiene; yelling, swearing and insulting new
members/rookies; being forced to wear embarrassing or humiliating attire in public; consumption of vile substances
or smearing of such on one's skin; brandings; physical beatings; binge drinking and drinking games; sexual
simulation and sexual assault.
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For such activities to be considered hazing, forced or mandated participation is not required. If a new member feels
that she/he will not be considered a fully participating member of the group or feels that they would be ostracized
for not participating in particular behaviors (for example, alcohol use), then such implied coercion would be
considered hazing.
EXAMPLES OF HAZING
The following are some examples of hazing divided into three categories: subtle, harassment, and violent. It is
impossible to list all possible hazing behaviors because many are context-specific. While this is not an all-inclusive
list, it provides some common examples of hazing traditions.
A. SUBTLE HAZING; Behaviors that emphasize a power imbalance between new members/rookies and other
members of the group or team. Termed “subtle hazing” because these types of hazing are often taken-for-granted or
accepted as “harmless” or meaningless. Subtle hazing typically involves activities or attitudes that breach
reasonable standards of mutual respect and place new members/rookies on the receiving end of ridicule,
embarrassment, and/or humiliation tactics. New members/rookies often feel the need to endure subtle hazing to feel
like part of the group or team.
Some Examples:
 Deception
 Implied requirement to participate in illegal or dangerous activities
 Silence periods with implied threats for violation
 Deprivation of privileges granted to other members
 Requiring new members/rookies to perform duties not assigned to other members
 Socially isolating new members/rookies
 Line-ups and Drills/Tests on meaningless information
 Name calling
 Requiring new members/rookies to refer to other members with titles (e.g. “Mr.,” “Miss”) while they are
identified with demeaning terms
 Expecting certain items to always be in one's possession
B. HARASSMENT HAZING: Behaviors that cause emotional anguish or physical discomfort in order to feel like
part of the group. Harassment hazing confuses, frustrates, and causes undue stress for new members.
Some Examples:
 Verbal abuse
 Threats or implied threats
 Asking new members to wear embarrassing or humiliating attire
 Stunt or skit nights with degrading, crude, or humiliating acts
 Expecting new members/rookies to perform personal service to other members such as carrying books,
errands, cooking, cleaning etc
 Sleep deprivation
 Sexual simulations
 Expecting new members/rookies to be deprived of maintaining a normal schedule of bodily cleanliness.
14 | P a g e

Be expected to harass others
C. VIOLENT HAZING : Behaviors that have the potential to cause physical and/or emotional, or psychological
harm.
Some Examples:
 Forced or coerced (explicit or implied) alcohol or other drug consumption
 Beating, paddling, or other forms of assault





Branding
Forced or coerced ingestion of vile substances or concoctions
Burning
Water intoxication
Expecting abuse or mistreatment of animals





Public nudity
Expecting illegal activity
Bondage
Abductions/kidnaps
Exposure to cold weather or extreme heat without appropriate protection
STUDENT ORGANIZATION SPACE AND EVENT PROCEDURE
REQUESTING A SPACE
1. Student Organizations are eligible to request space for events. This may be done by using the process
described at http://www.bc.edu/content/bc/offices/studentprograms/rsoresources.html
2. Campus Ministry approves all space requests made by Campus Ministry Organizations. Club Sports
should reserve space via the Club Sports Office in the Flynn Recreation Complex. Contact
emily.charnowski@bc.edu or 617-552-2479. All other organizations, including those associated with the
Undergraduate Government of Boston College will work with the Student Programs Office on all matters
related to space requests and approval.
HOW TO SUBMIT AN ONLINE SPACE REQUEST
1. Create a profile: If you have not made a room request in the past, you must first create a user profile. To
create a user profile, login to the Agora Portal. After logging in to the portal, select my service, common
services, then the event space reservation system. The form takes approximately 30-45 seconds to complete
and only needs to be completed once. If you plan to reserve space for only one student organization, you
will want to enter the chart string (the account number) at this point so that it will automatically appear on
all future space requests.
2. Search for Venue Availability: After creating your user profile, you will be directed taken to the Venue
Availability search screen. The search screens will find all available rooms for the date/time of your
request, based on the expected attendance and type of event. Because the system searches and offers only
15 | P a g e
available rooms, please do not provide a second or third choice with each request. The space you select is
available and should be approved provided that your event meets the criteria for the space that you have
requested.
3. Complete Your Space Request: After selecting your space, you will be asked to provide a title and a brief
description of your event. You must then complete a final page which asks for the chart string (the account
number), type of event, attendees, and anticipated services. These fields are required and must be
completed at the time the space request is made. Any requests submitted without a chart string or the other
information fields will be automatically denied. Members of Student Organizations should obtain their
chart string from the club treasurer or president. Treasurers or presidents who do not know the club chart
string should contact the Student Programs Office (SPO) by visiting Maloney Hall, suite 242, or write them
at rsoteam@bc.edu .
Space Approval: You will receive an automatic email from the event space reservation system. This
email is confirmation that your space request has been received, and your request will next be reviewed
by the space owner. You should now log-in at www.bc.edu/mybc and request your event to get
approval for the event.
If you fail to request event approval via www.bc.edu/mybc within 48 hours of your space request,
your space request will be cancelled.
4. Once you have submitted your space and event request via www.bc.edu/mybc you will receive a message
regarding next steps for your space approval.
PLEASE NOTE:
Programming space is very limited. Your organization should book space as early as possible (a minimum
of one month in advance) to help ensure that you will get space, and to allow for adequate planning and
publicity of your program. Additionally, if you no longer need a space, your organization should cancel the
space request in writing at rsoteam@bc.edu .
REQUESTING AN EVENT
Only Student Organizations are eligible to request events. This must be done by visiting www.bc.edu/mybc. Only
those events that are requested via www.bc.edu/mybc will be reviewed or approved. If a request is not submitted
via MyBC it will not be considered. If approval of an event is not granted via MyBC, the event is not approved.
HOW TO SUBMIT A MyBC EVENT REQUEST
1. Log in using your Boston College username and password.
2. Visit the page dedicated to your Student Organization.
3. Click on the “Events” tab. This will take you to the events page for your Student Organization. Next, click
on the “Create Event” tab. Please note: You must have administrative authority to create an event on
behalf of your Student Organization.
4. Using the information from your space confirmation, complete the title, location, start, and end time for
your event. You should also include a description of your event for the campus community. You will also
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5.
6.
7.
8.
be able to upload a flyer in this step. The flyer will be published at www.bc.edu/mybc for the University
community.
Complete the Event Additional Information Form. This form is used to explain to the MyBC
administrators how this event advances the mission of your organization and Boston College.
Review your submission. Before you submit your event request, be certain to review the details of your
event.
Submit your event request.
For more information visit www.bc.edu/mybc
EVENT APPROVAL
The Student Programs Office will review your event submission and alert you of the next steps via email. In most
cases, you will be required to have a conversation with a member of the Student Programs Office to have your
event reviewed and approved. If your event is denied, you will be able to make any necessary changes and
resubmit your request. You will also be able to contact the Student Programs Office for an explanation of the
denial.
EVENT REQUIREMENTS








Events must be consistent with the principles and values espoused by Boston College.
In the course of planning an event, Student Organizations are encouraged to seek guidance from their
adviser and, where appropriate, to consult with faculty and academic units. However, even with such
involvement by advisers, faculty, or academic units, the final approval of events proposed and conducted
by Student Organizations rests with the Student Programs Office.
Student Organizations may seek funding support and help in audience development for events from other
Student Organizations.
Student Organizations may not seek funding support from academic departments, programs, or units.
Student Organizations are encouraged to seek support from academic units in the form of special expertise,
helping with audience development, and mentoring.
Should it turn out that reserved facilities will not be used, students are required to advise the Student
Programs Office immediately so that the space can be used by other community members. Space at Boston
College is at a premium, and failure to give such notice may result in a future denial of space reservation
privileges.
Contracts relating to student organization sponsored events must be signed by the director of the Student
Programs Office. Contracts may be for goods, entertainment, or services. No verbal or written commitment
should be made by a student leader prior to consultation with the Student Programs Office. Only contracts
signed by the director of the Student Programs Office will be held binding by the University. The Student
Programs Office will provide sample performance contracts, if needed, and will offer advice on contract
development.
Student events may only be scheduled on weekends or on weekdays when classes are in session. Events
may not be scheduled during break periods, study days, exam periods, or Senior Week. Events that take
place Sunday through Thursday must conclude by midnight. Events that take place on Friday and Saturday
must conclude by 1 a.m. unless otherwise authorized by the Student Programs Office.
Food service for spaces controlled by Boston College Dining Services must be provided by Boston College
Dining Services (through the Bureau of Conferences) unless special arrangements have been authorized by
the Student Programs Office. Students should be aware that the Bureau of Conferences (BOC) requires a
17 | P a g e


minimum of three weeks for food service. All food service orders must be confirmed with BOC three days
prior to an event.
Events planned by Student Organizations should offer attendance priority to members of the BC
community, with invited guests attending if additional space is available.
Depending on the type or size of the event, the Chief of the Boston College Police Department or other
University officials may require that Student Organizations arrange for and provide funding for the hiring
of a Boston College Police officer or security detail.
EVENT APPROVAL DEADLINES



Requests for permission to hold an event must be reviewed by the Student Programs Office via
www.bc.edu/mybc prior to arranging for presenters, or engaging in advertising or promotion.
Student Organizations are advised to seek University space at least 30 days in advance of the planned date
to be sure that appropriate facilities will be available.
The final Student Programs Office approval must be completed a minimum of one week prior to the
planned date of the event.
PROMINENT EVENT PROCEDURE
A prominent event is one likely to attract large numbers of non-University attendees and/or significant public
attention.
Student Organizations holding such an event will need to pay particular attention to issues of safety, security, and
logistics for such matters as parking, crowd accommodation, and media.
Plans for such an event should be brought to the attention of the Student Programs Office at least 45 days prior to
the proposed date. Consultations with the Student Programs Office must take place prior to extending an invitation
to speakers or performers, reserving space, or advertising/promoting the event.
The director of the Student Programs Office may also independently determine that an event should be deemed
"prominent" and organized and conducted with appropriate care.
The director of the Student Programs Office is authorized to determine whether a prominent event will be approved
for scheduling. Such determination will be based on considerations regarding safety, crowd accommodation, and
the potential value of the event for students and the Boston College community.
Following approval of a prominent event by the director of the Student Programs Office, the sponsoring
organization may be required to appoint a representative who will work on logistics with the Student Programs
Office, Boston College Police Department, Office of News and Public Affairs, Bureau of Conferences, co-sponsors
and club advisor, and other offices and departments as deemed necessary by the Student Programs Office.
The Student Programs Office may require that prominent events only be advertised to, and open to, members of the
Boston College campus community.
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OUTSIDE EVENTS WITH AMPLIFICATION
1. Outside amplified events should be set up in one of the following places:



O’Neill Plaza
Newton Campus between the wings of Stuart Hall, facing Barat House, or on the lawn behind Alumni
House
Lower Plaza
2. Amplified music may be played outside only during these times:


Monday-Friday: after 4:30pm and ending by 6:00pm
Saturday - Sunday: after 3:00pm and ending by 6:00pm
3. Contracts with performers must specify that Boston College has right to control the volume of the performance.
4. For all events with amplified sound, the Office of State and Community Affairs and the Boston College Police
Department should be notified. Occasionally, one of these offices will write a letter notifying the neighbors.
5. All attempts to point the speakers toward a building to minimize sound traveling toward neighbors’ houses are
encouraged.
6. Anyone wishing to utilize any outside area for demonstration purposes must contact the Office of the Dean for
Student Development to register the demonstration and receive a demonstration permit.
INTERCOLLEGIATE DANCES
Program Planning Steps:
Submit a space request online via the process described at www.bc.edu/roomreqs.
Once the space has been held, request event approval at www.bc.edu/mybc
A space request must be submitted before requesting event approval.
Failure to secure space will delay the approval of the event by the Bureau of Conferences, Robsham
Theater Box Office, the Boston College Police Department, and the final approval of the event by the
Student Programs Office.
5. The event must have approval from the Robsham Theater Box Office, the Boston College Police
Department, and Bureau of Conferences before final approval for the event may be granted by the Student
Programs Office.
6. It may be necessary to arrange a visit with the Student Programs Office to discuss the event in greater
detail.
7. Once final event approval has been secured from the Student Programs Office, planning may be finalized.
1.
2.
3.
4.
PLEASE NOTE:
Publicity Guidelines
1. Publicity used off-campus should be approved by the Student Programs Office and the Boston College
Police Department before the flier/invitation is reproduced.
2. All publicity should include:
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




"College ID Required"
“Metal detectors in use”
“Limited Capacity”
“Doors close at midnight”
Starting and Ending time
Prior to the event:
1. If a disc jockey (DJ) or band is being hired to provide services, the organization should secure a performance
contract from the Student Programs Office. All contracts must be signed by the director of the Student
Programs Office. Leaders of Student Organizations may not contractually obligate Boston College for
services rendered.
2. The Student Organization advisor should be aware of the intercollegiate dance event, and should plan to
attend the event.
3.Student Organization leaders should review this checklist prior to the intercollegiate dance. A list of
members that will serve as volunteers at the event should be collected and submitted prior to the start of the
event.
At the event:
1. Student Organization leaders and the advisor should hold a security meeting prior to the start of the event.
This will enable leaders and the advisor to discuss the protocol of the event with the Boston College Police
Department.
2. A minimum of two members of the executive board (one of which must be the treasurer), should be present at
the entrance of the event at all times).
3. Loitering outside the event should not be allowed at any time. No readmission is allowed once a patron has
left the building.
4. Leaders must track the number of attendees at all times. Once the event is within 75 people of capacity,
leaders must act swiftly to secure the dance hall and alert all patrons that the event is nearing capacity and
some may not gain entry to the event. This should be done in consultation with the advisor and Boston
College Police Department detail sergeant.
5. All persons must pass through the metal detector screening device in order to gain entry to the intercollegiate
dance.
USING BOSTON COLLEGE INDICIA
Purpose
To regulate the use of Boston College's indicia in order to protect the proprietary interests of the University, and to
maintain graphic standards and a visual identity that reinforce the mission and values of Boston College.
Definitions
For purposes of this policy, indicia are defined as registered and unregistered University trademarks and logos.
External commercial use constitutes the licensed manufacture and sale, by third-parties to the general public, of
goods imprinted with any of the Boston College indicia.
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Internal commercial use constitutes the use of Boston College indicia by individuals, student organizations,
University departments, and other units of the University in order to promote or sponsor University-sanctioned
activities through the sale of shirts, watches, and similar merchandise imprinted with any of the University's indicia.
Internal official, or noncommercial, use constitutes the use of Boston College indicia in or on manufactured goods,
including signage, publications, and banners that are not subject to the University's Graphic Identity System;
awards; uniforms; athletic paraphernalia; and other devices of the University that are not sold and are used in the
ordinary course of conducting the business and affairs of the University.
(Please see policy 1-135-100 of the BC policy guide, Office of Marketing Communications -- Marketing
Communications, for information regarding the University's Graphic Identity System.)
Policy
The Office of the General Counsel registers the University's indicia with the appropriate agencies of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the federal government. The registered indicia of Boston College are:
"Boston College," "Boston College A Jesuit University," "B.C.," "Boston College Eagles," "B.C. Eagles," "The
Heights," "AHANA," "Gaelic Roots," "Chief Executive's Club of Boston," "Blue Chips," the Blue Chips seal, the
seal of the Graduate School of Management, and the seal of the University. Included among the indicia of Boston
College are various registered and unregistered graphic logos. Additional information regarding these graphic logos
is available from the Boston College Associate Athletic Director, External Operations, who serves as the
University's Campus Licensing Coordinator.
The indicia of the University are the property of Boston College. To protect the proprietary interests of Boston
College, individuals and businesses unrelated to the University that propose to use the indicia of Boston College for
commercial purposes must obtain a license to do so. All such external requests for commercial use of the Boston
College indicia are managed by a licensing agent retained by the University. Inquiries regarding the external
commercial use of the indicia of Boston College are to be directed to the University's Campus Licensing
Coordinator.
To protect the University's indicia from inappropriate use, and to maintain established graphic standards, it is
essential that all internal use of the University's indicia be monitored. Those individuals, student organizations,
University departments, and other units of the University that propose to use the University's indicia for
commercial or official purposes, must obtain the following permissions to do so:
• All requests to use the indicia of Boston College for internal commercial purposes must be approved by
the University's Campus Licensing Coordinator, in consultation with the Office of Marketing
Communications. Student Organizations, moreover, must first secure approval from the Student Programs
Office.
• All requests to use the indicia of Boston College for internal official purposes must be approved by the
University's Campus Licensing Coordinator, in consultation with the Office of Marketing Communications.
Pursuant to the terms of the agreement between Boston College and its licensing agent, internal commercial and
internal official uses of the University's indicia do not require the payment of licensing fees. However, merchandise
that bears the Boston College indicia for such purposes must be purchased from manufacturers that participate in
the University's licensing program.
Exclusive Use of Indicia
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Certain of the Boston College indicia are identified with and reserved for the exclusive use of specified
organizational units. Please consult the University's Campus Licensing Coordinator for additional information
regarding
POSTING POLICY
All student club/organization postings on the Boston College Campus must be approved and stamped. Postings
must contain all information that is relevant to the event. The purpose of this policy is to manage the physical
posting of material on campus in a way that ensures the appropriate use of available space, prevents the defacing of
University property and reduces unnecessary expenditures of University resources used to repair and/or replace
University property. Postings must be consistent with the principles and values espoused by Boston College. In
addition, the content of the postings must avoid demeaning or discriminatory portrayals of individuals or groups,
cannot be libelous, violate copyright law, or contain any material that is inconsistent with the community standards
of Boston College, including any references to alcohol, drugs, or sexual innuendos. The Student Programs Office
reserves the right to make decisions regarding the approval of what is to be posted. Violations or abuse of this
policy may result in a fine, the loss of all advertising and distribution privileges for a definite period of time, or
both.
FLYERS/POSTINGS
REQUIREMENTS






Pertain to and be sponsored by a Boston College
student organization
Normal size is 8½" x 11" or smaller
Limited larger postings are permitted; please
see #5 for more details.
Contain a blank 2" x 2" space in the bottom
right
corner for the approval stamp (quarter sheets
exempt)
Boston College contact name and either a
phone number, email address, or website
address
PLEASE NOTE: In special circumstances such
as UGBC elections, additional restrictions may
apply.
22 | P a g e
APPROVAL PROCEDURE
1.
Visit your organization portal on MyBC (bc.edu/mybc)
and go to “Forms.” Click “Posting Approval Request,”
and fill out the form.
2.
Once the postings are approved and the copies have
been made, return to SPO to stamp the copied flyers.
3.
There is a maximum of 50 postings per event (quarter
sheets must be approved but do not have to be
stamped). Postings will be stamped for up to 7 days.
Faculty and Staff please go to bc.edu/posting
PLEASE NOTE: Photocopied stamps ARE NOT acceptable
proof of approval and violate the Posting Policy. Any flyer or
banner that has a photocopied stamp will be taken down and the
organization may lose privileges to post.
1.
What Can I Post With? Scotch tape and regular masking tape are the only types of tape and/or adhesive
that may be used. NEVER use stickers, duct tape, packing tape, or “fun tack” type materials. If the
approved posting area is a surface where tacks, staples, etc. may be used (such as bulletin boards), those are
appropriate ways to post flyers.
2. How Long Can My Posting Stay Up? Flyers may be posted in approved locations 7 days prior to the
event. The sponsoring group must remove all flyers in approved locations within 24 hours after the
event has taken place. Recycling is encouraged!
3. Where Can I Post?
 O’Neill Stairwell: There is a limit of 5 postings per event in the O’Neill Stairwell. Postings are allowed
on the two side walls but are NOT ALLOWED on the overhang wall or on the stairs and railings.
 McElroy Stairwell “This Week at BC”: There are designated areas to post one flyer per event for events
occurring during that week. Other areas in McElroy that are approved for posting are the main lobby in
addition to the ATM and mailbox areas. To be fair to all clubs and organizations, we ask that each group
limit themselves to a maximum of 2 postings per event in McElroy.
 Flat Screens: Organizations can have their events advertised on the flat screen TV’s around campus. Go to
ugbc.bc.edu for more information.
 Academic Buildings There is one “What’s Up” bulletin board in each academic building. The bulletin
board locations are: Carney 1st floor, Cushing 1st floor, Devlin basement, Fulton 2nd and 3rd floors,
Gasson 1st floor, Higgins 3rd floor, Lyons basement, Merkert 1st floor, and McGuinn 1st floor.
 Dining Halls: Postings must be approved by the manager of each particular dining hall.
 Plex: See the supervisor of the Plex for permission to post.
 Residence Halls: Bring postings to Residential Life in Maloney Hall, Suite 220. Maximum of 138 postings
per event.
 Robsham Theater: Postings must be approved by Howard Enoch in Robsham Theater. Maximum of six
postings per event.
 Outside: The designated two-sided and three-sided kiosks throughout campus.
4.






Where Can I Not Post?
Bus stops or emergency call boxes
Glass, brick, or painted surfaces
Sidewalks, stairs, or railings
Bathrooms
Stokes, Conte Forum, O’Neill Library, or Bapst Library
Commonwealth Avenue or Beacon Street Garages
5. May I Display Postings Larger than 8 ½” x 11”?
 No more than 20 legal (8 ½” x 14”) or tabloid (11” x 17”) sized postings are permitted.
 There is a maximum limit of 2 large postings per event in the O’Neill stairwell and 1 large posting per event
in McElroy.
6. How Will Violations Be Handled? Facilities Services monitors postings on campus. Postings or banners
that do not adhere to any part of the posting policy will be removed and the organization will be contacted.
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Repeat violations may result in revoking privileges to post flyers/banners in the future. Fines: Any postings
on bus stops or Emergency Call Boxes may result in a $100 fine for the offending organization.
POSTER BOARDS

A student group may advertise on a kiosk located in the Hillside lobby and the 4th floor of Maloney. The
poster board must be vertical (2’ x 3’) and be approved by the Student Programs Office. To get the poster
approved, go to the Student Programs Office portal on MyBC page, click “Events,” and click the week that
you want to reserve a posting kiosk. Click “Register,” and fill out the form. Advertisements may not be
posted more than five days prior to an event. Advertising space is based upon availability and SPO
approval.
BANNERS
REQUIREMENTS

Pertain to and be sponsored by a registered
Boston College student organization

Boston College contact name and either a
phone number, email address, or website
address
APPROVAL PROCEDURE
1.
2.

PLEASE NOTE: In special circumstances
such as UGBC elections, additional
restrictions may apply.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Before creating a painted banner, a student
organization representative must go to SPO to
pick up a plastic drop sheet to lay under the
banner. Facilities Services requires the plastic
sheets so that concrete surfaces will not be
damaged.
Banners MUST be created outdoors. Banners
CANNOT be painted inside Maloney, McElroy,
or any other building.
All banners must be brought to SPO to be
approved and stamped. Please be sure paint is dry
before being brought to SPO.
Only rope (no tape of any kind) can be used to
hang banners.
Banners may hang for up to seven days.
The student organization is responsible for
removing the banner on the stamped removal
date. Banners that are not removed are
considered a posting policy violation and may
result in the loss of future privileges.
APPROVED BANNER LOCATIONS:

APPROVED BANNER LOCATIONS


For each event, student groups may hang up to two banners
Banners must be hung within the walls of the Chestnut Hill and Newton campuses. Banners should not
be visible from outside campus (e.g., no banners are permitted on Beacon Street, St. Thomas More Drive, or
Commonwealth Avenue).
24 | P a g e

Banners may be hung on parking garages as long as they do not interrupt the traffic flow of vehicles
or pedestrians, and are not hung up by tape. Banners may not be hung on buildings or in front of
Robsham Theater.

POSTING FLYERS IN THE RESIDENCE HALLS
General Policies:




No outside vendor solicitations are allowed in Boston College Residential Halls. The Boston College
Police Department will remove anyone from campus that is distributing flyers without permission,
including local restaurants, delivery services, employers, etc.
In order to post flyers in the Residential Halls you must be a registered club, organization, academic or
administrative department at Boston College.
Fliers for Residential Halls are distributed through the Office of Residential Life only.
Flyer approval is at the discretion of the Office of Residential Life.
Distribution Process:
1. Make flyers. Flyers must have a contact email address on them and clearly show who the sponsor is. Flyers
will not be approved if they contain lewd messages, offensive imagery, or alcohol references.
2. Bring them to the Office of Residential Life, Maloney Hall, Suite 220, and provide the Residential Life
Assistant a copy for approval. A copy will be kept for our records. If you are concerned about them being
approved, create a proof and after that has been approved, make the remaining copies.
3. Once they have been approved, you will stamp them with a Residential Life stamp and correlate them.
This takes about 10 minutes. The stamp is not allowed to be photocopied. You do not have to stamp them
with another department stamp.
4. Hand them back to the Residential Life Assistant to be distributed through the Resident Assistants (RA). It
may take up to five days for them to get posted.
Flyers are posted one per RA. You may target a specific area or post in all halls.
Area
# of Flyers
Freshman
55
Sophomore
49
Senior
43
Total
147
DISTRIBUTION POLICY AND PROCEDURE
The Student Programs Office allows members of student organizations to share information with the university
community through the distribution of literature and materials. However, any literature or other material to be
distributed must be approved by the Student Programs Office, prior to distribution.
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Student Organization requests for the distribution of literature and material will be considered against the
educational value and purpose of the proposed material to be distributed. The Student Programs Office and the
Dean of Students Office will make all decisions regarding the distribution of literature, or any other materials to be
shared with members of the Boston College community. The use of Boston College as a forum for the distribution
of literature, in no way implies approval or endorsement of the stance or view of the literature or other material that
is to be distributed. Any and all material that is to be distributed must be consistent with the mission of the
university. No material that advocates, encourages, or promotes positions that are inconsistent with the mission,
character, and values espoused by Boston College will be approved for distribution.
Procedure
1. Only members of the Boston College community may distribute literature or other materials at Boston College.
2. Only literature deemed appropriate by the Student Programs Office or the Dean of Students Office may be
distributed.
3. All literature must state clearly the organization that is responsible for the distribution of the literature or
material.
4. In order to gain approval for the distribution of literature or other materials to members of the Boston College
community, organizations must present the following to the Student Programs Office, or the Dean of Students
Office, no less than 7 business days in advance of the planned distribution:
5. Copy of the material to be distributed
6. Location of proposed distribution
7. Time and date of proposed distribution
a. Manner of proposed distribution
b. Name of primary contact for proposed distribution of literature or material
If approved, the Student Programs Office will maintain one original set of the literature or other material to be
distributed. Once approved, each piece of the literature or other material to be distributed must be stamped with the
date on which the distribution of the literature or other material to be distributed is to be distributed to members of
the Boston College community.
STUDENT ORGANIZATION SUPPORT SERVICES
Boston College Police Department
Events which may require additional approval from the Boston College Police Department:
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Events with a band/DJ or other entertainment
Events with an attendance greater than 200 people
Events involving off-campus/public guests
Bus-loading: Transportation and the BCPD should be alerted of the details of the bus loading.
Bureau of Conferences
The Bureau of Conferences (BOC) is a University department under the umbrella of Dining Services that exists to
help Student Organizations facilitate events on campus. The BOC serves as a billing clearinghouse for all event
related charges from on-campus departments and outside vendors that relate to the set-up and break down of events.
The BOC also orders services such as catering, police, buildings and grounds, staging, podiums, flowers/balloons,
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etc. For additional information on the support services offered by the bureau of conferences visit www.bc.edu/boc
or call 617-552-0311.
Media Technology Services
Boston College Media Technology Services provides the University community with a full range of audiovisual
support. Examples of services include: digital audio recording, CD-ROM production, DVD production, digital
video, digital photo and multimedia production, creative graphics services, state-of-the-art instructional classrooms,
TV satellite conferencing, technical repair services, and select live TV remote telecasts. Student Organizations may
submit Audio Services/Special Function requests by visiting: www.bc.edu/mts or Audio Services/Special
Functions
Robsham Theater Arts Center Box Office
All Student Organization ticket sales must be coordinated by the Robsham Theater Arts Center Box Office. All
information regarding the ticket sale (Event Sponsor, Event Title, Venue, Date, Time, Price, Number of tickets to
be sold/complimentary tickets/held for performers, and the Student Organization chart string for deposit) must be
received by the Robsham Theater Arts Center no less than three weeks in advance. The RTAC ticket request form
is available at https://orgsync.com/43868/forms/53252. This information should be communicated to the Box
Office by the treasurer. Tickets typically go on sale the Monday prior to the event. The Friday prior to the sale of
tickets, the treasurer should submit the alphabetized complimentary ticket list to the Robsham Theater Box Office.
Failure to do so will delay ticket sales. For additional information, contact Kim Principi at principi@bc.edu.
Student Programs Office
Copy Center
Student Organizations have access to 1,000 free copies for the year from the Student Programs Office Copy Center.
The primary contact of each organization should visit the Student Programs Office to retrieve the organizational
specific copy code. The Copy Center is located adjacent to the Student Programs Office.
Fax Machine
Student Organizations may send and receive faxed documents at no cost to the organization at the Student
Programs Office. The number to the fax machine is 617.552.0050 and incoming faxed documents are placed in the
organizational mailbox. It is important to alert the Student Programs Office that an incoming fax is expected.
Mailbox
Every Student Organization has a mailbox. The mailing address for all Student Organizations is: Name of Student
Organization, Boston College, 140 Commonwealth Avenue, Maloney Hall, Suite 242, Chestnut Hill, MA 02472.
The Student Organization mailboxes are adjacent to the Student Programs Office.
Organization Cabinet and Desk Keys
Some Student Organizations have cubicles on the 2nd floor of Maloney Hall. Student leaders must come to the
Student Programs Office to access the cabinets and desks located in the cubicle area. Ask the Student Programs
Office front desk assistant to use the keys for the filing cabinets. When asking for access to your respective Cabinet
or Desk, please have the 3- or 4-digit number of the lock as well as your BC ID.
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