Board Approval Date: Jan. 7, 2026

ASI Student Government members are elected or appointed to serve as representatives and advocates for the Cal Poly student body. The corporate responsibilities of Student Government members are defined within the ASI Bylaws. This responsibility guide provides an overview of the key duties and expectations for members of the ASI Board of Directors. Specific responsibilities and levels of involvement may vary throughout the term of office. 

 

ASI Board of Directors Overview 

The ASI Board of Directors serves as the official voice of Cal Poly students, representing the student body in university and community affairs. As elected student representatives, Board members advocate for student interests and help shape the direction of Associated Students, Inc. (ASI). 

ASI is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation that enhances the Cal Poly student experience through programs, services, and leadership opportunities. The Board of Directors plays a key governance role within this structure, overseeing corporate operations and approving the allocation of ASI student fees to support initiatives that benefit the student community. Through collaboration, accountability, and student engagement, the Board works to foster a vibrant and inclusive university environment. 

Members of the Board of Directors hold an active and engaged role within the organization and across the university. This position requires a weekly time commitment of approximately 10–15 hours, which may include occasional evenings, weekends, and optional travel. Summer involvement is not required; however, Board members will be provided with asynchronous training and engagement opportunities during the summer term. 

 

Corporate Responsibilities 

• Establish policies and parameters for the affairs, properties, personnel, and operations of ASI. 
• Approve the annual budget of ASI and all ASI fiscal policies. 
• Hear reports from Board of Directors ad hoc and Standing Committees. 
• Provide for an annual audit of ASI’s books and records. 
• Advise and manage ASI Elections in collaboration with the ASI Recruitment and Elections Committee. 
• Establish standing rules of conduct for the Board of Directors. 
• Provide input to the ASI Executive Director on corporate operations and student advocacy as appropriate. 

 

Board of Directors Responsibilities 

Members of the ASI Board of Directors are entrusted with representing student interests, shaping policy, and ensuring responsible governance. 

Representation, Engagement, and Advocacy 

• Represent students from their elected college and communicate their perspectives within ASI and university forums. 
• Engage with students through participation in college club councils (if active), outreach activities, and student government initiatives. 
• Attend and actively participate in all Board of Directors meetings, workshops, and trainings. 
• Stay informed on issues considered by the Board of Directors and participate in ASI assessment, planning, and goal-setting efforts. 
• Advocate for Cal Poly students at the local, state, and federal levels to promote higher education and student success. 
• Support student government outreach and recruitment efforts. 
• Fulfill other responsibilities as directed by the Chair of the Board. 

Governance and Oversight 

• Serve as a voting member of the ASI Board of Directors. 
• Author and review legislation through Bills, Resolutions, and Endorsements. 
• Approve and monitor the ASI annual operating budget to ensure the responsible use of mandatory student fees. 
• Create, revise, and uphold ASI policy to support organizational transparency and accountability. 

 

Committee Responsibilities

• Serve on ASI internal Standing and ad hoc Committees as appointed by the Chair of the Board. 
• Serve on university wide and/or Academic Senate committees as appointed by the ASI President. 

 

Summary of Typical Involvement 

• Weekly Board of Directors workshops (Mondays, 5:10–7 p.m.) 
• Biweekly Board of Directors meetings (Wednesdays, beginning at 5:10 p.m.) 
• Standing and ad hoc Committee meetings as appointed by the Chair of the Board (varies) 
• Quarterly Kickoff events and related training or leadership development activities 

Please refer to the ASI Bylaws for detailed attendance and participation requirements. 

 

Mandated Reporter 

Members of the Board of Directors are considered mandated reporters under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and are required to comply with the requirements set forth in ASI Policy as a condition of their volunteer assignment. 

 

Conflict of Interest  

It is a conflict of interest for ASI to employ members of ASI Student Government and require those individuals to have the responsibility of governing and making decisions regarding the organization by which they are employed. Because of this conflict, it is necessary to separate the roles by not allowing a student to simultaneously hold a position in ASI Student Government and be employed by ASI. 

 

Term of Office 

The ordinary term of office for ASI Student Government members shall be one year, commencing on the day after the close of spring term and ending on the last day of the following spring term.  

 

Professional Development/Mentoring 

Professional development/mentoring to members of the ASI Board of Directors will be provided by the ASI Executive Director or designee. As a mentor, the ASI Executive Director or designee will provide constructive feedback and guidance on a regular basis to assist members of the ASI Board of Directors in their personal and professional development.  

 

Qualifications for Office  

During their term of office, members of the ASI Board of Directors must maintain compliance with all CSU and ASI requirements, as outlined in the ASI Bylaws. 

 

Support Resources

The ASI Board of Directors receives priority registration and ASI vehicle privileges, if eligible.