History

In 1966 the University, through the Alumni Association, considered several ideas to draw outstanding students to ASU. One goal was to establish a student organization…Devils’ Advocates was born. The purpose of Devils’ Advocates was to inform high school students of the opportunities and benefits available to them at ASU and to encourage the most superior of these students to enroll in the University.

The early 70’s marked a turning point for the Advocates. The University and the Alumni Association were growing, and thus more demands were put on the Advocates. At this time the group was traveling all over the state speaking to high school students as well as giving campus tours.

In 1974 the University established the Office of Admissions, separating it from the Registrar’s Office. Advocates stayed with the Alumni Association for about six months and then transferred to the High School/College Relations Office, a division of the Office of Admissions. With two sponsors (Alumni Association and the Undergraduate Admissions Office), a constitutional change was affected and the Advocates experience a shift in the functions and activities.

New standing committees were added, a more efficient tours program was instituted and new student orientation became a larger part of the group’s responsibilities. In the 90’s, involvement with the Alumni Association gradually faded while a new relationship with Institutional Advancement and Sneaker Tours was formed. In 2000, Institutional Advancement joined Undergraduate Admissions as the official sponsors of Devils’ Advocates. In late 2002, the name of Institutional Advancement was officially changed to the Office of Public Affairs; yet their support for Devils’ Advocates continues.

One of the characteristics of Devils’ Advocates that has remained constant over the years is its outstanding membership. The group now consists of 63 personable and responsible college students. Devils’ Advocates is generally recognized as a prestigious organization on campus and is highly regarded by the administration, faculty, and fellow students.