Official organizational structure and working framework for the Latin American Student Organization at Spartanburg Methodist College
This document outlines the mission, leadership structure, officer responsibilities, membership guidelines, election procedures, and organizational policies of LASO.
Our primary goal is to establish a supportive and inviting environment for Spartanburg Methodist College students of Latin American heritage and their allies. LASO seeks to create a space where individuals can explore and celebrate Latino identity through open dialogue, cultural events, and social gatherings. The organization promotes unity between native and non-native Spanish speakers and encourages respectful cultural exchange. Meetings and activities may be conducted in both English and Spanish when appropriate.
Raising Awareness of Relevant Issues
Another focus of LASO is raising awareness of challenges faced by minority communities, with particular attention to the Latin American and local Latino community. The organization seeks to educate students on identifying and understanding these issues through workshops, guest speakers, and collaborative initiatives. LASO aims to promote dialogue, awareness, and understanding among members of the Spartanburg Methodist College community.
Promotion of Cultural Exploration and Education
LASO provides opportunities for students to deepen their understanding and appreciation of Latin American culture and history, including traditions from Latin America, Spain, and the local Latino community. Through cultural and educational events highlighting art, music, history, and customs, the organization works to enrich cultural awareness and foster respect for diverse cultural identities within the campus community.
Article II – Meetings
The LASO Executive Board shall hold meetings as needed for planning and coordination. A general meeting schedule may be established at the beginning of each semester, with additional meetings scheduled by the President in consultation with the organization's Advisor when necessary.
Article III – Executive Board
Section I – Membership
Membership is open to all students (whether full-time or part-time) who are in good academic standing and members of the community who have an interest in the Spanish language and cultures. There will be no exclusion or discrimination of any kind.
Section II – Duties of Board Members
LASO board members are responsible for organizing and overseeing LASO events. Board members are encouraged to attend college-wide events and meetings to represent LASO when needed. Members of the Executive Board must commit to their assigned responsibilities for the academic year.
Article IV – Volunteers
All students interested in LASO are welcome to participate as volunteers in support of the organization's activities and events.
Volunteers may assist with event planning, promotion, setup, outreach, and other organizational needs as requested by the Executive Board.
Volunteers who demonstrate consistent involvement, responsibility, and commitment may be considered for appointed support or leadership roles as the organization grows.
Article V – Elected Positions
Section I – Officers
The officer positions and their specific duties will be as follows:
President
The President serves as the primary representative and leader of the Latin American Student Organization (LASO). The President represents LASO at official college functions and meetings, communicates with campus administrators regarding organizational matters, and provides overall leadership and direction for the organization. The President is responsible for facilitating meetings, coordinating organizational activities, and ensuring that the concerns of the Executive Board, advisors, and general members are heard and considered.
Duties
Serve as the official representative and primary contact of LASO to the College and Student Engagement.
Represent LASO at official functions, meetings, and required clubs and organizations meetings.
Call and preside over Executive Board and general organization meetings.
Create and distribute meeting agendas.
Provide leadership and direction for the organization in accordance with this working framework.
Coordinate and oversee the work of appointed chairs and support roles.
Delegate tasks fairly and appropriately among Executive Board members and appointed leaders.
Facilitate discussions and votes in a fair and impartial manner.
Ensure proper meeting procedures are followed.
Work collaboratively with the Executive Board, advisors, and members.
Coordinate organizational communication and budget requests with the appropriate college administrator.
Vice President
The Vice President supports the President in carrying out the mission and goals of LASO. The Vice President assists with organizational leadership, helps coordinate meetings and activities, and serves as acting President when the President is unavailable. The Vice President works closely with the Executive Board to ensure the successful operation of the organization.
Duties
Assist the President with organizational leadership and administration.
Assume the responsibilities of the President when needed.
Support the planning and coordination of meetings, events, and activities.
Assist with communication between Executive Board members, advisors, and members.
Support recruitment and member engagement efforts.
Support the coordination of appointed chairs and volunteers.
Help oversee organizational projects and initiatives.
Perform other duties assigned by the President that support the organization's goals.
Secretary
The Secretary supports the Executive Board by maintaining organizational records, documenting meetings, and assisting with communication and administrative tasks. The Secretary helps ensure continuity within LASO by keeping accurate records and supporting the organization's day-to-day operations.
Duties
Record attendance at Executive Board and general organization meetings.
Keep minutes of Executive Board and organization meetings.
Maintain important organizational records and documents.
Distribute meeting notes and relevant information to Executive Board members when needed.
Assist with communication regarding meetings, events, and organizational updates.
Support the Executive Board with administrative tasks as needed.
Help maintain continuity between leadership transitions by preserving organizational records.
Events Chair
The Events Chair is responsible for leading the planning and coordination of LASO events in collaboration with the President and Vice President. This role focuses on organizing cultural, social, and educational activities, coordinating volunteers as needed, and ensuring events align with the purpose and goals of the organization.
Duties
Plan and coordinate LASO cultural, social, and educational events in collaboration with the President and Vice President.
Develop event ideas and timelines consistent with the purpose of the organization.
Coordinate event logistics, including scheduling, space needs, and basic preparation.
Work with volunteers to support event setup, execution, and follow-up.
Communicate event plans and progress to the Executive Board.
Support post-event evaluation to help improve future programming.
Outreach Chair
The Outreach Chair is responsible for promoting LASO and supporting student engagement across campus. This role focuses on connecting with students and student organizations, encouraging participation in LASO activities, and presenting a positive and inclusive image of the organization.
Duties
Promote LASO events and activities to students and student organizations.
Support outreach to prospective members and encourage student participation.
Assist with communication related to co-sponsored events and collaborations.
Help plan and promote social outings and engagement activities.
Support tabling and other outreach efforts to increase awareness of LASO.
Coordinate with volunteers and support roles as needed.
Section II – Elections
Elections for officer positions will occur at the end of the Spring semester or when a position becomes vacant. Officers shall be selected by a majority vote of active LASO members. Newly elected officers may serve for the following academic year and are expected to uphold their positions for the full academic year unless a special circumstance arises.
Section III – Vacancies
If an officer position becomes vacant during the academic year due to resignation, graduation, withdrawal from Spartanburg Methodist College, or any other circumstance, the Executive Board may appoint an interim officer or hold a special election as deemed appropriate.
Section IV – Removal of Officers
Officers are expected to fulfill the responsibilities of their position and uphold the purpose and values of LASO. An officer may be removed from their position for failure to perform assigned duties, repeated absence from meetings or events without reasonable justification, conduct inconsistent with the mission of LASO, or violation of Spartanburg Methodist College policies.
Removal of an officer shall require a two-thirds vote of the Executive Board in consultation with the organization's Advisor. The officer shall be given an opportunity to address the Executive Board before a final decision is made.
Article VI – Rules and Regulations
All aspects of this organization shall operate in accordance with the rules, policies, and regulations of Spartanburg Methodist College.
Article VII – Advisor
A full-time Spartanburg Methodist College faculty or staff member will serve as an Advisor to guide and support LASO.
Article VIII – Amendments
Amendments to this structure may be proposed by any member of the Executive Board. Approval of an amendment shall require a two-thirds vote of the Executive Board. Approved amendments shall take effect immediately unless otherwise specified.
Current Leadership
The following students currently serve as the 2026–2027 elected leadership team for the Latin American Student Organization (LASO) at Spartanburg Methodist College.
Jean has been part of LASO since day one. He was a founding Co-President in 2025–2026 and is President for 2026–2027. He also runs Segura’s Solutions, where he builds websites in English and Spanish.
Alejandra, or Ale, is LASO’s Event Planner for 2026–2027. She created Nuestra Herencia, the capstone project that partnered with LASO for Yo Sabo and GeoGuessr. She also plays guitar.
Samantha is LASO’s Outreach Chair for 2026–2027. She takes LASO’s event photos through Samantha.Visions, helps promote club activities, and is also president of Blue Impact Club.
Founder of SMC LASO. Bryan created the organization in 2025 as a capstone project with the vision of building a lasting community for Hispanic and Latin American students at Spartanburg Methodist College.
Yashuri is LASO’s staff advisor and SMC’s Assistant Director of Community Life. She has advised LASO since its first year. Outside work, she enjoys crafting and writing letters to her pen pals.
