The SMC Associates membership is made up of community members, business and civic leaders, faculty and staff of Santa Monica College and Los Angeles residents in the Westside areas who all believe in enriching the campus environment for students and opening these opportunities to the surrounding communities as well.

Membership is open to all friends of Santa Monica College who wish to support the college in its continuing efforts to bring excellence to education. Annual dues range from $100 to $5,000 and are fully tax deductible, payable by check or credit card. College staff and faculty members can also choose to use a convenient payroll deduction program for their dues.

Throughout the year, Associates members attend special by-invitation-only receptions to meet speakers and performers participating in programs sponsored by the Associates. A special Membership Reception takes place in September of each year. There are intellectual and social gathering opportunities for members at large, but there are no standing meetings.

The SMC Associates has a 30-member Board of Directors elected for staggered 3-year terms. Board members make recommendations and participate in a selection process for potential speakers and programs that will benefit students, faculty and community member. Board members also recruit new members to the organization; oversee the budget; and create special appreciation events for the SMC Associates general membership.