Navigating the Plaster Student Union at Missouri State University: A Comprehensive Guide

The Plaster Student Union (PSU) at Missouri State University serves as a central hub for student life, events, and services. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the PSU, including information on event planning, banner and table reservations, policies, and available resources.

Introduction

The Plaster Student Union is more than just a building; it's a dynamic space where students gather, connect, and create lasting memories. Understanding the PSU's policies and procedures is essential for students, organizations, and departments looking to utilize its facilities effectively. The PSU aims to enhance the Missouri State community by providing a welcoming environment and a range of services that support the university's public affairs mission.

Event Planning in the PSU

Reservation Process

To hold a meeting or event in the PSU, it's crucial to start planning early. Reservations can be made up to one year in advance, providing ample time to organize all the necessary details. For events requiring reservations more than a year out, approval from the Union is necessary. Contact Event and Meeting Services at least 10 working days prior to the event to ensure all arrangements can be made.

Event and Meeting Services

Event and Meeting Services plays a vital role in coordinating events within the PSU. Their staff can assist with various aspects of event planning, including catering, security, and physical plant services. They also serve as advisors to student organizations, guiding them through the planning process.

Catering

Catering for events can be arranged through a PSU vendor or affiliate. All catering arrangements must be properly documented and approved.

Room Setups and Fees

The PSU offers standard setups for its meeting rooms, and if an event utilizes this standard setup, there is no charge. However, non-standard setups will incur labor charges. Set up Fees apply to all meeting rooms in the Plaster Student Union. Please note that candles or other open flames are prohibited within the PSU.

Fundraisers

Organizations planning to host a fundraiser on campus need to adhere to specific guidelines. Fundraisers must be legal and comply with university policies. Events that involve a sale (e.g., bake sale, pottery sale) are considered University No Fee usage, but for Organization/Department charged events, a room charge applies. The appropriate form must be completed and submitted within 3 business days of the event.

Movie Showings

Showing a movie in the PSU is considered a "public" performance, requiring compliance with copyright laws and licensing regulations. Organizations must obtain proper licenses and copyright approval before showing any movie. Additionally, all promotional materials must include the movie's rating symbol and a full explanation of the rating. Student organizations are responsible for complying with and enforcing age limit access.

Security

For events where security is deemed necessary, the sponsoring organization can hire security officers. The number of officers required depends on factors such as the nature of the event, the date selected, and other considerations. Event and Meeting Services can assist in hiring security officers, determining appropriate placement (e.g., entrance doors, aisles), and ensuring a safe environment is maintained. Officers are expected to oversee the event and ensure that a safe environment is maintained.

Weather-Related Cancellations

In the event that the University cancels classes due to weather, organizations have the option to adjust to the scheduled reserved time or cancel their event.

Additional Considerations

Clients are expected to pay for services promptly, either directly through Financial Services by submitting an account number or by paying for their charges in advance.

Banner and Table Reservations

Indoor Banners

The PSU provides indoor banner spaces for promoting events and activities. A maximum of 6 banners may be hung inside, with dimensions of 3ft tall by 8ft long. Banners should clearly specify the organization or department sponsoring the event and must be maintained throughout the promotion period. Banners not corresponding to specific locations within the banner area. Banners can be displayed for up to one week and may be extended for an additional two weeks if no other requests have been received.

Outdoor Banners

The PSU features one outdoor banner space located above the east entrance, ideal for event promotion. Relief holes should be cut in banners to minimize strain on the fence.

Information Tables

Information tables within the PSU are intended for disseminating information or services of interest to Missouri State University students. These tables must be directly related to a student organization or sponsored by a university department. Commercial entities, with the exception of credit card companies, are generally not permitted to exhibit unless they are a registered vendor with a university department sponsor, in which case a rental charge applies. University contracts may not exhibit. Reservations are limited to two dates each semester, with a limit of two tables per reservation.

General Policies and Regulations

Posting and Displaying Materials

Posting materials on campus requires adherence to specific guidelines. Materials can only be displayed in designated areas. Affixing anything to walls in public areas is prohibited, and thumbtacks or adhesives cannot be used on wall surfaces. Brick surfaces, planters, benches, or similar locations are also off-limits for posting.

Decorations

Decorations must be handled with care to avoid damage to University property. Decorations requiring open flames are prohibited, and all decorations must be completely removed after the event.

Equipment

The PSU offers equipment for use within the facility. This equipment can only be used in the PSU. Use of personal equipment may incur additional fees for Technician Assistance.

Resources and Services

BearPass Card Office

The BearPass Card Office, located in room 128 of the PSU, provides services related to student identification cards.

Information Center

Students can find assistance and answers to their questions at the Information Center.

Shuttle Stop

A shuttle stop is conveniently located near the PSU, providing transportation options for students and visitors.

Student Organizations

The PSU is home to a diverse range of student organizations, including academic, honorary, professional, religious, service, sports, and social groups. These organizations contribute to the vibrant campus community by hosting events and activities that align with the Missouri State University public affairs mission.

Media Access

While the University strives to be open and accessible, it also recognizes the need to balance media access with the privacy and security of individuals and events. Generally, if an event is open to the public, the press must be allowed access.

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