Auxiliary Organizations within the California State University (CSU) system are nonprofit entities legally separate from the university but dedicated to advancing its educational mission by providing essential services that the CSU cannot efficiently manage directly. Governed by strict policies, state laws, and university-specific requirements, auxiliaries operate under close oversight from university presidents, who ensure their administrative and fiscal compliance through annual reviews and internal assessments.
These organizations assume full legal, fiscal, and fiduciary responsibility for functions like student housing, research administration, and fundraising, maintaining transparency through publicly available financial records and annual independent audits. Their formation and operation require Chancellor’s Office approval, strict adherence to incorporation procedures, and compliance with conflict-of-interest, sustainability, and open meeting policies. While auxiliaries enjoy operational flexibility, they must uphold rigorous standards to protect public trust, ensure legal compliance, and support the university's mission.
Comprehensive guidance regarding the formation, governance, and responsibilities of these organizations is outlined in the systemwide CSU Auxiliary Organizations policy.