Student Organizations
Student organizations at Wake Forest University are committed to upholding the spirit of Pro Humanitate and adhere to the University’s non-discrimination policies and procedures. The Office of Student Engagement supports these organizations every step of the way – from getting chartered and understanding policies to planning successful events. We provide resources, guides and staff to help student leaders navigate logistics and create meaningful experiences for the campus community.
Lead Your Organization.
Student organizations are at the heart of campus life. From chartering to event planning, our tools and resources are designed to help your group grow, thrive, and make an impact at Wake. All essential information for Student Organizations can be found in the Student Organization Handbook.
Chartering an Organization
Starting something new? The chartering process helps you establish your organization, clarify your mission, and join Wake’s community of student-led groups. Our guide walks you through each step, from drafting your constitution to securing recognition and resources. We are ready to help bring your ideas to life on campus.
Event Planning for Student Organizations
Events bring your organization’s mission to life. From reserving space to managing logistics, our event planning guide provides the tools and timelines you need to host successful, engaging programs on campus. Whether you’re planning a small meeting or a major campus tradition, this guide will help you make it happen.
Additional Resources
Student organizations can promote events by displaying flyers or graphics on digital screens across campus. The Campus Life Marketing and Communications team has created a guide outlines the submission process and requirements so your event details reach the campus community.
Managing money is a big part of running a successful student organization and there are several funding sources on campus available to help. Depending on your group’s needs, you might rely on fundraising, operating budgets or campus-wide funding opportunities.
Here are the main ways that student organizations access and manage funds:
- Agency Funds – Accounts for student organizations that collect dues, fundraise or receive outside support.
- Student Activity Fee (SAF) – A fee paid by all undergraduate students that supports campus-wide programs. Student groups and departments can apply for SAF funding to bring events and initiatives to the entire campus community.
- Student Budget Advisory Committee (SBAC) – Provides annual operating funds to chartered student organizations.
- Student Organization Finance Office (SOFO) – Your go-to resource for reconciling account and managing purchases with organizations funds.
Wake Forest University welcomes guest speakers as part of the vibrant programming offered by student organizations. To ensure events align with University values and run smoothly, student groups must follow the Guest Speaker Policy when inviting and hosting outside speakers. Review the full policy below for details and requirements.
WFU’s online space request system enables student organizations to locate and request appropriate event space quickly and easily.
Using your voice to amplify important issues and perspectives can be a valuable part of learning at Wake Forest.
Student organizations have access to a variety of training and development opportunities to strengthen leadership skills, build community, and ensure safe and successful events. Below are a few key areas to explore:
- Our Student Engagement Education and Development (SEED) workshop series will help you supercharge your organization and leadership skills. We will dive into areas like Leadership Development, Reflecting on Ourselves & Others Together (ROOT), Organizational Excellence, Risk & Well-being. In this workshop series students will gain practical knowledge, meet other leaders and truly make an impact at Wake Forest.
- At least two officers from active chartered student organizations must attend two SEED workshops each semester.
- The majority of Demon Deacons find community and a sense of satisfaction while getting involved at Wake Forest. Our goal is to ensure that the pursuit of belonging for all of our students is one that is safe, healthy and productive. To meet this goal means creating a campus community without hazing! Find out more information about hazing prevention on campus on their website.