Constitution Guidelines

A constitution is the basic framework of an organization. It is used to provide an administrative structure for your group. Every organization is required to submit a constitution that has been ratified within two years of the year seeking registration. Below is a list of both required and recommended components for RSO constitutions.

We have provided a sample constitution template for you to use when creating your constitution.

Required Items

• The name of the organization.
• Purpose statement—your goals and programming should connect clearly to this purpose. This purpose statement will be used in office publications advertising your organization.
• Qualification of membership—what does it take to be a member of your group?
• Officer position and structure—how are your officer positions organized?
• Ratification date—when did you ratify your constitution? Needs to be within the last two years.
• Non-discrimination clauses—
  • Member Selection:
    • Member selection shall be free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, order of protection, gender identity and expression, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, unfavorable military discharge, or status as a veteran.
  • Programs, Services, and Activities: 
    • This organization shall be in compliance with all federal and state statutes and regulations as well as Illinois State University policies pertaining to non-discrimination in educational programs.
    • Access to all programs, services, and activities shall be free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, order of protection, gender identity and expression, ancestry, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, unfavorable military discharge, or status as a veteran.
    • This organization shall provide reasonable accommodations as necessary to individuals with disabilities in order to provide equal opportunity to participate in programs, services, and activities.
• One hundred percent of members are Illinois State University students. Non-students and alumni may participate, but are not considered members and cannot act on behalf of or represent the RSO when conducting business. When participating in events, meetings, etc., they must abide by all Illinois State University and RSO policies as well as city, state, and national laws.
• The organization will have an advisor that is an Illinois State University faculty, staff, or graduate assistant employed by the University.

Recommended Items

• Inclusion of this statement: "The Organization and its members agree to adhere to city/state/national laws and university policies."
• How to remove a member or officer from organization.
• Officer qualifications and duties.
• How to amend the constitution.
• Meetings of the organization—How often? How are they run?