Training & Development

• RSO 101 or University Affiliate
• Hazing & Harassment Prevention
• Inclusion & Belonging
• Mental Wellbeing for Leaders
• 25Live tutorial
• Discover Essentials 

• Executive Leadership 

• Financial Management 1: Banking
• Financial Management 2: Funding & UPAC 

• Event Planning & Marketing 

• Terms & Conditions on Discover 
  Agree to terms & conditions for (president, treasurer, event planner, advisor, co-advisor,* safety officer*, and instructor*) 

• Plan ahead. It's always a good idea to think about next year before the end of the current academic year.
• Recruitment for student organizations can happen all year long. Plan engagement events throughout the year.
• While you must have a minimum of 10 members there is no maximum. 

• Be part of the Involvement Fair. The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement puts on a fair at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters where any and all organizations can set up a table and talk to prospective recruits.
• Organizations can hold interest meetings open to prospective recruits or reserve tables in the HUB-Robeson Center to hand out information.
• You can reach out to like-minded organizations or other organizations you might be able to work with.
• One of the best ways for organizations to reach out to students is to use incentives and/or giveaways.

• Retention is an ongoing, daily process, but there is no way for every organization to keep every one of its members. As an executive board member or advisor, you cannot please everyone. Just do your best and make the right decisions for your organization.
• Hold an orientation-like first meeting or an informational meeting early in the semester/year so members have a better idea of what the organization does. This way, they will be more likely to stay engaged if they know the group's collective goals.
• Give members responsibility. Executive board members cannot do everything, and they shouldn't have to. Use your resources (your members!) in areas where they will be most helpful and productive. Also, this will give those members reasons to stay in the organization and feel proud of the work they do.
• Provide positive reinforcement. Let members know when they have done a good job. Recognize them in some way, either with a simple thank you or with an award, if that is something your organization would like to do.
• Put on events that do not involve the work your organization does. Have a retreat or fun after school-like event where members can get to know one another.

Retreats are one of the most useful activities that student organizations participate in, and they are extremely valuable for a number of reasons. Students can get to know one another on a deep level, engage in team-building exercises, set goals for the upcoming year, develop leadership skills, and have a good time together.

Develop a Retreat Goal

A well-planned retreat helps your organization step back from day-to-day activities to build connection, strengthen skills, and set direction for the year ahead. Start by defining your purpose—whether it’s team building, leadership training, goal setting, or simply reconnecting as a group.

Think about who should attend and where the retreat will take place. On-campus locations offer convenience, while off-campus sites can create space for reflection and focus. If traveling, plan for safe and accessible transportation and confirm any contracts or facility details in advance.

Shape your retreat with a mix of workshops, discussions, and downtime. You can invite campus experts or Student Leadership and Involvement staff to facilitate sessions on communication, planning, or leadership development. Encourage members to take ownership by forming small committees to handle logistics like transportation, food, or activities—helping everyone feel invested in the retreat’s success.

Identify Where to Go

Central Pennsylvania has a variety of options that student organizations have successfully used for retreats. Both the Stone Valley Recreation Area and the Shaver's Creek Environmental Center are part of the university and have facilities to accommodate. Connect with the Student Leadership and Involvement team for more ideas.

Things to Plan

Good preparation makes for a smoother and more meaningful retreat. Set an agenda in advance, and include a balance of icebreakers, leadership activities, and reflection time. The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement can help you design interactive sessions that strengthen communication and teamwork.

If your retreat includes meals, plan them early—especially if you’ll be cooking together. Make a list of what to bring, from cookware and utensils to comfortable clothing, toiletries, and supplies for group activities. For overnight stays, pack bedding, shower items, and anything needed for a safe, comfortable experience.

Off-campus retreats don’t require formal University approval, but travel must be registered through the Student Leadership and Involvement Office in 201 HUB-Robeson Center. It’s also recommended that your advisor attend, even briefly, to support team-building and connection. Retreat expenses can be covered with organizational funds, member contributions, or shared resources to keep costs manageable.