Document Number:
STNV-0004
Document Owner:
Student Involvement
Revision #:
v1.0
Status:
Approved

General Description

Policy Summary:

This policy establishes the conditions necessary for and the restrictions on Trinity University student organizations when sponsoring events involving partisan and non-partisan political activities.

Purpose:

This policy prevents improper political activity by student groups at Trinity University while maintaining the rights and responsibilities granted students in the University's Statement on Rights and Responsibilities.

Scope:

This policy applies to student groups.

Exceptions:

None.
 

Policy Content

The University is further prohibited from conducting lobbying activities. A violation of IRS regulations by the University could result in serious consequences, including but not limited to the loss of our tax-exempt status.  Therefore, the University does not directly or indirectly engage in partisan political activity, including the endorsement of any political candidate or ballot initiative, nor does the University solicit funds for any candidate or ballot initiative. The University uses the American Council on Education (ACE) Memorandum regarding political and campaign-related activities of and at colleges and universities as a guide for event review. 

Due to the nature of their close relationship with the institution, University-sponsored Organizations (USOs) may not host or co-sponsor partisan political events. (USOs share the institution’s tax-exempt status and are advised by a full-time employee whose job description includes obligations to provide oversight of and support to the organization.)
Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) may independently host partisan political activities on campus under the following conditions:

A. Candidate appearances constitute speeches, question-and-answer sessions, or similar communications in an academic setting. Candidate appearances that include fundraising are deemed campaign rallies and are not permitted.

  1. University funds, including student activity fee money ;
  2. University’s tax-exempt ID;
  3. Campus mail, official Trinity University social media platforms, and/or Student Involvement banner printing services;
  4. the University's name and/or logo marks. 
  1. Student organizations do not pay rental fees for use of University facilities.
  2. In some circumstances, and dependent on the proposed event, additional fees may be considered, including but not limited to, security, audio visual support, janitorial services, etc.
  1. Materials that are informational or educational in nature may be made available. Distribution of materials soliciting financial support are not permitted.
  2. Student organizations may not charge admission fees or solicit donations to raise funds to benefit a party, candidate, or political cause.
  1. All marketing materials and publicity must be pre-approved by the Vice President for Strategic Marketing and Communication or designee.
  2. Announcements must be made at the beginning and end of every event and in all marketing and promotional materials to clearly indicate:
    • Trinity University does not support or oppose candidates for political office;
    • The opinions expressed are not those of Trinity University;
    • The name of the Registered Student Organization (RSO).
  3. The hosting student organization may be required to collect a Certificate of Insurance from the third party that names Trinity University as an additional insured. The third-party being hosted by the student organization is required to provide insurance, not the RSO. Therefore, there should be no cost to the RSO. 
  4. The hosting student organization leader will review, agree to, and sign an acknowledgement statement with the University that identifies the responsibilities of the student organization with regard to holding the event on the Trinity University campus. In addition, the student organization leader will be required to get the signature of the student organization adviser and the third party in order to facilitate the sharing of these requirements with the person/organization being hosted.

F. Student organizations hosting partisan or non-partisan political activities is in compliance with all other relevant policies related to student organization activities. 

Both University-sponsored Organizations and Registered Student Organizations may sponsor non-partisan political activity, including, but not limited to:

  1. Student Organizations may conduct non-partisan training programs designed to increase public understanding of the electoral process or to encourage citizens to become involved in the process.
  2. Student organizations may circulate questionnaires or conduct public opinion polls. Such activities should not be skewed to the advantage or disadvantage of individual candidates, political parties, or ballot issues.
  1. Student Organizations may organize or participate in voter registration activities. 
  2. Voter registration activities may include non-partisan educational materials.
  3. Voter registration activities should not include the presence of a candidate for office.

Student organizations hosting non-partisan political activities must also comply with all other relevant policies related to student organization activities.

Attachments

Attachments:

  ACE Issue Brief: Political Campaign-Related Activities of and at Colleges and Universities

Related Documents

Revision Management

Revision History Log:

Revision #:

Date:

Recorded By:
v1.0 7/31/2019 8:33 PM Katharine Martin

 

Vice President Approval:

Enter Vice President(s) that are responsible for approving this document

Name:

Title:
Sheryl Tynes Vice President for Student Life