Read About Risk

Colby's student organizations provide a wealth of exciting learning and social opportunities for all students. These organizations are organized and operated entirely by Colby students. Other than providing a faculty advisor to some organizations, who is available for occasional consultation and guidance, the College has no role in the operation of these student organizations and does not oversee club activities in any way. Because Colby's student organizations are not run by the College, student participants have a great deal of autonomy and are able to make choices about club activities and procedures on their own. They are also solely responsible for the organization's activities. All participants must be aware of and accept the risks that accompany student-led, unsupervised activities. Activities held in the outdoors or those requiring specialized skills or equipment are considered to be particularly risky, and should be navigated with extreme caution. Students involved with clubs and organizations must exercise good judgement and risk assessment. Students are advised always to err on the side of safety. Students are responsible for the decisions they make while a part of these unsupervised, independent club activities.

Some clubs, such as the Colby Outing Club, Colby Mountaineering Club, Colby Sailing Club, athletic clubs, and others involving travel off campus require activity-specific waivers as a condition of club membership.

Questions? Contact Jonathan Milne, Director of Outdoor Safety and Education, at Jonathan.Milne@colby.edu or 207-859-4284.