Creating a club at PVCC
Creating a club sounds like a great deal of work. Good thing this is one instance where one might think the process is harder than it really is. In a short, five-minute talk with Steve McNerney, I found out just how easy it is to start a club at PVCC. If you have some ideas for a club that you cannot seem to get out of your head, the first step would be for you to stop by Mr. McNerney’s office yourself to pick up a club application. His office is in the middle room of the fitness center, M179/180.
Just because this is easy to do, does not mean one should take it lightly; after the general questions, e.g. applicant name, PVCC email address, proposed club name, proposed advisor, and estimated budget—which can be zero—, the most important question is “How will this club benefit PVCC student life?” Though this question seems simple, it can be the deciding factor on approval. I would recommend picking up a Policies and Procedures Manual for PVCC Clubs and Organizations from Mr. McNerney before deciding on your clubs benefit. The Requirements for Student Activities are posted in the manual and they are the major criteria that club establishment is based on. Some important excerpts from the manual are:
“The State Board encourages the development of a student activities program designed to promote educational and cultural experiences…support the mission of the colleges and provide students avenues for personal growth and enrichment…do not restrict membership based on race, color, gender, age, religion, disability, national origin, sexual orientation or other non-merit factors. Private clubs, private associations, social fraternities, and social sororities shall not be recognized”
After completing the application, and returning it to Mr. McNerney, he can make a decision on behalf of the college in that same moment. If it seems as if there may be some issues to be discussed; such as, budget or similarity to already established clubs, Mr. McNerney will then take the proposal to the Student Services Committee for them to convene and make a decision. If the club is established, the advisor must download contact information onto the student life section of the college website. Bulletin board space will then be given to the club. Mr. McNerney says it best, “It’s easy to start a club as long as it abides by VCCS standards.”
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact Steve McNerney via email at SMcNerney@pvcc.edu.
