Club/Org Membership Policy

This policy is intended to reflect Campus Life’s responsibility and interest in promoting its mission in “play[ing] an integral role in the education of the whole person, a ‘process through which students become aware of their interests, community, and purpose in the world.’ We deepen the student experience by providing resources and opportunities to explore interests through involvement in student clubs and organizations, social events and programs, skill building workshops, and employment opportunities. An equity and inclusion lens is foundational to our work – we actively aspire to dismantle -isms and -phobias, and partner with students to do the same in their areas of influence.”

BCSG-recognized student club members, and members of Campus Life-advised student organizations (henceforth referred to as club/org members) are expected to comply with all Bates policies and procedures, as well as local, state, and federal laws and regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, the College’s Code of Student Conduct and Disciplinary Processes, Equal Opportunity, Non Discrimination, and Anti-Harassment Policy and Non-Retaliation Policy. Students cannot knowingly permit or condone any violation of these policies. It is important to note that when a student is functioning in the capacity of a member of a BCSG-recognized student club and/or a Campus Life-advised student organization, including as a club leader or paid student staff member, they may be held collectively or individually responsible for violations.  

Club/org members  have a responsibility to take action to try to prevent violations of the Code or at minimum, to notify a Campus Life staff member if they become aware of a potential violation.  Depending on the nature of the issue or conflict, students can expect to meet with a staff member in Campus Life, the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution, and/or the Title IX, Sexual Respect, Civil Rights Compliance Office.  Students with concerns about the latter may speak with any staff member in the Office of Campus Life or connect directly with Gwen Lexow, Director of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance: 

Gwen Lexow
Lane Hall 202-A
207-786-6445
titleix@bates.edu

All Clubs/Orgs Are Open to All Students

Campus Life celebrates and values the diversity of the Bates community, and the identities, backgrounds, and life experiences of all Bates students. This includes the groups, clubs, organizations, and programs that they engage with while at Bates. We strive to work with students in creating an inclusive, accessible and welcoming environment. Our goal is to sustain a campus community in which all individuals can authentically engage, feel they belong, and see themselves in the programs, events, clubs/organizations, and the many leadership opportunities that are supported by Campus Life. To realize these goals as a community, all BCSG-recognized student clubs and Campus Life-advised organizations are open to all enrolled students at Bates.

Club/Org Responsibilities

BCSG-recognized student clubs and Campus Life-advised student organizations have the privilege and responsibility to develop and implement appropriate internal policies and procedures, governing operations, activities, and the conduct of members. Clubs/orgs shall also be responsible for informing members of such policies and procedures, including the potential consequences if violated. The responsibility for development, implementation, administration, and enforcement of such policies and procedures shall be exercised on behalf of each student club by the club/org’s officers and in accordance with the club/org’s constitution.

By becoming an officer or leader of a BCSG-recognized student club or a Campus Life-advised student organization, students agree to the following statements:

  • I agree to abide by any and all Bates policies, including College Code of Student Conduct and Disciplinary Processes, and Non-Retaliation Policy as well as federal, state, and local regulations.
  • I accept and will uphold the principles of Equal Opportunity, Non Discrimination, and Anti-Harassment Policy.  All Bates students shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
  • I understand that as a student club/org leader, I am not able to enter into a contract on behalf of Bates.
  • I understand that my club/org must operate in accordance with Bates College’s status as a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit.
  • I understand that all members of this club/org must be currently enrolled at Bates.
  • I understand that all club/org leaders shall be personally responsible and accountable for the operations of the club/org.