Conflict of Interest and Outside Employment Statement
The University expects our employees to conduct business according to the highest ethical standards of conduct. Employees are expected to devote their best efforts to the interests of the University. Business dealings that appear to create a conflict between the interests of the University and an employee are unacceptable. The University recognizes the right of employees to engage in activities outside of their employment which are of a private nature and unrelated to our business. However, the employee must disclose any possible conflicts so that the University may assess and prevent potential conflicts of interest from arising. A potential or actual conflict of interest occurs whenever an employee is in a position to influence a decision that may result in a personal gain for the employee or an immediate family member (that is, spouse or significant other, children, parents, siblings) as a result of the University’s business dealings.
Although it is not possible to specify every action that might create a conflict of interest, this policy sets forth the ones which most frequently present problems. If an employee has any question whether an action or proposed course of conduct would create a conflict of interest, he or she should immediately contact the Office of Human Resources to obtain advice on the issue. The purpose of this policy is to protect employees from any conflict of interest that might arise. The Board of Trustees requires that employees sign a Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form.
A violation of this policy will result in immediate and appropriate discipline, up to and including immediate termination.
Outside Employment
Employees are required to obtain written approval from their supervisor before participating in outside work activities. Approval will be granted unless the activity conflicts with the University’s interest. In general, outside work activities are not allowed when they:
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Prevent the employee from fully performing work for which he or she is employed at the University, including overtime assignments;
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Involve organizations that are doing or seek to do business with the University, including actual or potential vendors or customers; or
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Violate provisions of law or the University’s policies or rules.
From time to time, University employees may be required to work beyond their normally scheduled hours. In cases of conflict with any outside activity, the employee’s obligations to the University must be given priority. Employees are hired and continue in the University’s employ with the understanding that the University is their primary employer and that other employment or commercial involvement which is in conflict with the business interests of the University is strictly prohibited.