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Our History
Stanford Student Enterprises (SSE) is a young, dynamic organization that reflects the energy and talent of our student employees while also embracing our history through our continued affiliation with the Associated Students of Stanford University (ASSU).
ASSU&SSE
ASSU serves as the designated representative of the student body. Despite initially receiving financial assistance from the University when it was first organized in 1891, ASSU has since taken steps to establish their financial independence. In 1995, ASSU’s accounts were formally separated from those of the University when it stopped receiving university funding. As a result, Financial Manager John Hall created SSE in 1996 to ensure the long-term financial viability and independence of ASSU.
Since then, we have maintained a close affiliation with ASSU. Earnings from our enterprises are distributed by ASSU to fund student groups on campus. We are also responsible for facilitating numerous student jobs and organizational reimbursements.
Our history goes beyond our five active enterprises. Through our work with past enterprises, we have grown in our ability to provide effective support and advice for our student employees.
Current Work
In addition to our partnership with ASSU, SSE manages five business enterprises, more than seventy employees, and over $20 million in total assets. We handle short and long-term investments, offer financial services to all student groups, sell Stanford apparel, run a student startup accelerator program, and provide other helpful products and services on campus.
Our enterprises provide services directly to the Stanford community through the Student Store, Cardinal Ventures, and Capital Group. We also work with external clients through Stanford Consulting and Cardinal Labs. While fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and opportunity, we are excited to expand our reach with SSE Tournaments, collaborating with Stanford Debate Society to bring the esteemed Stanford Debate Invitational to a global audience, reflecting our commitment to innovation and excellence."
For more information, read our charter here.
