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Officer Transitioning

Smooth and successful transitioning is the key to maintaining a strong organization from year to year. Succeeding officers must be provided with the necessary information to carry on their responsiblities. There should be a time of officer overlap before the current office leavers to provide an opportunity for training.

Regardless of how extensive the training, a comprehensive notebook or binder of each position should be kept and updated throughout the year, and give to each succeeding officer as a resource to use and learn from.

This notebook or binder should include:

  • A copy of the organization's constitution and by-laws.
  • A complete position description and role classification.
  • General organization information.
  • General member requirements.
  • Previous minutes and reports.
  • Fliers, receipts, and supplementary materials from past projects.
  • Evaluations of previous projects and programs.
  • Information on current projects.
  • Organizational goals and objectives.
  • Concrete timeline for organizational projects.
  • Calendar
  • Resources and Contact lists.
  • Sample meeting agenda.
  • End of the year report.
  • Budgetary concerns.
  • Incidentals (copy codes, passwords, banking information).
  • Tips (how to reserve space for meetings, where to get supplies, etc.).
  • Outgoing officer tips and suggestions.
  • Incoming Officer Goal Sheet.

An example of a successful transition binder can be found in the Student Organization Office, located in room 239 of the Red Gym.

A key point to remember is that you should always leave the organization better than you found it. Remember your previous frustrations and issues, and keep good notes throughout the year to pass along to the next officer. Please remind the succeeding officers of the need to register with the Student Organization Office each year and contact the Student Organization Office with any information regarding a new contact person.

For more information, contact the Student Leadership Program, leadership@odos.wisc.edu