Standing up: Audrey Jarvis, 19, says she is outraged that she was told to remove her cross necklace
The boss - a university employee - told Audrey Jarvis that 'it might make incoming students to Sonoma State University feel unwelcome' or make them not want to join the group - which plans student events and activities on campus.
The supervisor then told Miss Jarvis, a devout Catholic, that she could keep the necklace on, but she had to hide it under her shirt.
'My initial reaction was one of complete shock,' Miss Jarvis told Fox News.
'"I was offended because I believe as a Christian woman it is my prerogative to display my faith any way I like so long as it is not harming anyone else.
'I was very hurt and felt as if the university's mission statement - which includes tolerance and inclusivity to all - was violated.'
A spokeswoman for the publicly-funded university said the case was an example of 'political correctness that got out of hand' and apologized.
Susan Kashack told Fox that Sonoma State President Ruben Arminana was 'angered' when he learned of the incident.
She said the supervisor was 'completely wrong' to ask Miss Jarvis to remove her cross.
Ms Kashack said the university is trying to reach Miss Jarvis so officials can apologize for the misunderstanding.
But, the incident left the liberal arts student shaken. She has retained an attorney through the Liberty Institute and is seeking a formal 'religious accommodation' to ensure that she is never told the remove her cross again.
Miss Jarvis' mother Debbie told Fox: 'She doesn't wear the cross as a fashion statement. It's a statement of her faith.
'Our faith was attacked. It's unnerving. I know what's going on in this country. I know Christianity is being attacked. Now, I know it first-hand and it sickens me and saddens me.'
Italy has been removing crucifix from classrooms for almost 20 years to pacify the Islamic agenda.