Student Organizations: Where Learning Meets Community

Getting involved in student organizations is an essential part of the UIS experience. Beyond the classroom, these groups help you build connections, discover new interests, and make your mark on campus.

Student organizations offer social, service, and professional development opportunities that enrich your time at UIS and in the local community.

By joining a group, you can:

  • Build meaningful relationships with peers who share your interests and passions
  • Develop leadership confidence through hands-on roles and collaborative projects
  • Strengthen decision-making and problem‑solving skills that translate directly to academic and career success
  • Explore personal and professional interests in a supportive environment
  • Engage in service and advocacy that make a positive impact on campus and beyond
  • Enhance your résumé with experiences that show initiative, teamwork, and commitment

Student Organizations at UIS

Student organizations play a vital role in creating a vibrant and connected campus community. At UIS, students have established more than 60 active Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) that reflect a wide range of interests—cultural, academic, professional, service‑oriented, creative, recreational, and more.

Each year, these organizations host over 1,000 events, meetings, and activities, giving students countless opportunities to engage, lead, and build meaningful connections.

To explore all current RSOs, learn how to join, or find upcoming events, visit UISConnection, the university’s platform for student involvement.

Find Organizations on UISConnection

How the Office of Student Life Supports Registered Student Organizations

  • Starting a New Organization: Guidance through the registration process, constitution development, and initial planning.
  • Program and Event Development: Support with brainstorming, planning, logistics, marketing, and event approval through UISConnection.
  • Individual and Group Problem Solving: Consultation to help address challenges, resolve conflicts, and strengthen group dynamics.
  • Leadership Development: Training, workshops, and opportunities to build confidence, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Membership Recruitment: Tips and tools to help organizations grow and engage new members.
  • Fundraising Suggestions: Suggestions and best practices to help your group plan successful fundraising efforts.
  • Campus & Community Referrals: Connections to partners across UIS and the broader Springfield community who can support your goals.
  • SOFA Requests and Reporting Assistance: Guidance on submitting Student Organization Funding Association (SOFA) requests and completing required reports.
  • Purchases: Guidance on navigating the purchasing process for student organizations, including how to request approvals, use university‑approved vendors, follow spending policies, and ensure compliance with Student Life and university financial procedures.

For more information, contact the Student Life Team: