[Faculty Handbook Category #3]
Activities or relationships that conflict with our interests or adversely affect the College’s reputation should be avoided. We cannot describe every situation that may constitute a conflict of interest; rather, the purpose of these guidelines is to provide general direction so that you can seek further clarification on issues related to conflicts of interest. Contact the Chief Financial Officer if you have any questions about conflicts of interest.
A conflict of interest occurs when your loyalty is, or appears to be, divided between your self-interest or the interests of a third-party and our interests. The types of conflicts of interest you must avoid include, but are not limited to:
- Accepting, agreeing to accept, or soliciting money or other tangible or intangible benefit in exchange for favorable decisions or actions in the performance of your job or that might appear to influence your decision-making or professional conduct;
- Accepting employment or compensation or engaging in any business or professional activity that might require disclosure of confidential information or trade secrets;
- Directly or indirectly engaging in activities that compete with our organizational interests, including engaging in, owning, managing, operating, joining, controlling, consulting with, participating in the ownership, operation or control of, being employed by, or being connected in any manner with any person or entity which solicits, offers, offers to provide, or provides any services or products similar to those which we offer;
- Accepting employment or compensation that could reasonably be expected to impair your independent judgment in the performance of your duties;
- Accepting a kickback, bribe, substantial gift, or special consideration as a result of any transaction or business dealings involving us;
- Giving preferential treatment in business dealings to any person or company in which you, a relative or friend has a significant ownership interest or relationship.
In addition to the examples listed above, you will also be expected to comply with our Conflict of Financial Interest for Employees Policy, located on the Finance Office website.
updated 3/30/2026