Officer Transitions

A leadership transition plan will provide your organization with continuity so that the next year's officers can build on the knowledge gained rather than starting from ground zero. All of these items are applicable and this list is not an all-inclusive list for all organizations. Please make sure to transition officers with whatever items are most relevant to your organization.

Important Platforms

  • Provide new student officers access to the online platforms your student organization uses and explain their purpose or how your student organization uses it.
  • DeHub - Change user permissions for new leadership in DeHub
  • E-mail - Share login information for e-mail affiliated with the student organization
  • Social Media - Update social media access

Resources

  • Provide any important documents, templates, action plans, etc. to new officers.
  • Provide a timeline with important dates such as the re-registration, Student Involvement Fair (both Spring and Fall), important dates relevant to the organization
  • Provide new officers with the contact information for student organization resources such as OSI and staff or faculty advisor

Transitioning Into A Leadership Role

Transitioning in an executive position in a student organization can be a crucial time to ensure continuity and set the stage for future success. Here are some things student leaders can do when starting their executive positions:

First Week:

  1. Meet with Outgoing Executives: Schedule a meeting with the outgoing executive(s) to receive guidance and learn about responsibilities.
  2. Review Documentation: Read through any documents provided by the outgoing executives, such as handover materials and organizational bylaws.

First Month:

  1. Submit Re-registration Form on DeHub: Ensure that the organization's re-registration form is submitted on time (in June) through DeHub, updating the constitution if needed. Within re-registration ensure that all mandatory training has been completed by the student organization President, Treasurer and Advisor.
  2. Set Goals: Define clear, achievable goals for your term in office, considering both short-term objectives and long-term vision.
  3. Meet with Advisors: Schedule meetings with faculty or university staff advisors to introduce yourself and discuss your plans.

Three Months In:

  1. Get Acquainted with Team Members: Take the time to get to know your fellow executive team members and key organization members, understanding their roles and strengths.
  2. Update DeHub Information: Ensure that your organization's information on DeHub is updated with new officer information (notifications on), roster updates of your members and updated constitution.

One Year In:

  1. Plan Transition Activities: Develop a transition plan to ensure a smooth handover to the next executive team.
  2. Assess Organization's Needs: Evaluate the organization's current state and identify areas for improvement or growth.

Ongoing:

  1. Create a Communication Strategy: Develop and implement a communication plan to keep members informed about organizational activities.
  2. Attend OSI Training or Workshops: Take advantage of leadership training sessions or workshops offered by the Office of Student Involvement.
  3. Establish Regular Meetings: Schedule regular meetings with your executive team to discuss progress and plan upcoming activities.
  4. Build Relationships: Cultivate positive relationships with other student organizations, university departments, and external partners.
  5. Stay Organized: Use tools like planners or digital calendars to keep track of tasks, deadlines, and commitments.
  6. Seek Feedback: Be open to feedback from members and advisors to continuously improve your performance and the organization's activities.

Transitioning Out Of A Leadership Role

Transitioning out of an executive position in a student organization can be a crucial time to ensure continuity and set the stage for future success. Here are some things student leaders can do when leaving their executive positions:

Document Responsibilities: Create a detailed document outlining your roles, responsibilities, and tasks. Include any important information or insights that would be useful for your successor.

Meet and assign Successor(s) on DeHub: Schedule a meeting with the incoming executive(s) to provide guidance, share insights, and answer any questions they may have. Offer to mentor them during the transition period if possible. Remember to update your officers on your student organizations DeHub page.

Handover Materials: Provide access to any relevant files, documents, or resources needed for the position. This could include digital files, physical materials, or passwords to online platforms including student orgs email accounts.

Update Records on DeHub: Make sure that all necessary paperwork, forms, and records are up to date. This could include membership lists, event registrations, or official documents required by the university or organization.

Communicate with Advisors: If applicable, communicate with faculty advisors or university staff who oversee the organization. Inform them of the leadership transition and provide any necessary updates.

Provide Contact Information: Make yourself available to offer advice or support to the new executive team if needed. Provide contact information and let them know they can reach out to you for assistance during the transition period.

By following these steps, student leaders can help ensure a smooth transition and set the stage for continued success within the organization.