RSO Book: Types of Student Organizations at UNL
There are a variety of types of student organizations at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). Each type of organization has access to slightly different resources and processes. All student organizations, regardless of type, are responsible for compliance with UNL policies, processes, regulations and codes.
Institutional Student Organization
UNL has three student organizations of this type, and each organization is defined in the Board of Regents’ Bylaws. These organizations are the Association of Students of the
University of Nebraska (ASUN), the University Program Council (UPC),
and the Daily Nebraskan (DN) newspaper. These student organizations receive student fee funding from University Program and Facility Fees (UPFF).
While the Daily Nebraskan receives some University support for its operations, it is a separate "stand-alone" business, not part of the University's operations.
No other student organizations are included in Institutional Student Organization category.
Departmental Organization for Students
This type of student organization is organized and has recognition only within the confines of the department, school or college in which it exists. These organizations are completely dependent upon the department, which assigns staff and/or resources to support the organization’s existence as it sees fit. The use of institutional resources is limited to what the department will provide. These organizations exist and carry out activities under the jurisdiction of the host department. A good example of this type of organization is the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Cornhusker Marching Band.
Recognized Student Organization (RSO)
This type of student organization has filed for recognition through the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska (ASUN) Student Government.
Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) are required to have both a minimum membership to start the student organization and a draft of a constitution in accordance with ASUN requirements.
These student organizations are recognized campus-wide and have access to institutional resources set aside or developed for their use.
The Event Planning and Registration (EPR) process in Student Involvement is to be used by these student organizations when planning events and activities.
Residence Hall Association (RHA)
The Residence Hall Association (RHA) is a Recognized Student Organization (RSO) dedicated to serving the students living in the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s (UNL’s) residence halls. Additionally, each residence hall has a local governing body, which is defined as a "local government" within the RHA Bylaws. These Bylaws set forth requirements and processes for recognition of local governments by RHA. In addition to this recognition, residence hall governments must be recognized by the Association of Students of the University of Nebraska (ASUN). With ASUN recognition, residence hall governments may access all resources available to other RSOs. Residence hall governments are required to use the Event Planning and Registration (EPR) process.
Sport Clubs
University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Sport Clubs are comprised of individuals who have a desire to compete or participate in a sport throughout their college career. These clubs exist to develop students' skills, dedication and interest for specific sports. Each club's level of activity is unique and ranges from regional to national intercollegiate competition. Sport Clubs continue to grow primarily due to strong student leadership, which is one of a variety of life skills that students can develop through their participation with UNL Campus Recreation. Each club is represented on the Sport Clubs Council and is a member of a recognized National Governing Sport Body.
For more information about Sport Clubs, please contact the Sport Club Staff at Campus Recreation, 402-472-3467, or visit the Campus Recreation website.
Greek Chapter
This type of student organization is recognized through the expansion process of the Interfraternity Council (IFC), Pan-Hellenic Association (PHA), Multi-Cultural Council or the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC). Member organizations of these four Councils have exemption to Title IX and must comply with UNL expansion policies and guidelines. Greek Chapters are considered members of their respective recognizing council. These student organizations have access to resources similar to those available to RSOs. Greek Chapters may access these resources by using the Event Planning and Registration (EPR) process. In cases of a conflict between the Corporation Boards of the Greek Chapters and the University’s not-for-profit status, University resources will not be made available. This consideration applies to the use of UNL vehicles and UNL bulk mail permits, among others.

