Regulations & Policies

Organization/General

OBJECTIVE & PURPOSE

The University of North Florida’s reputation for excellence is sustained by the commitment embodied in its Values   of Accountability, Integrity, Excellence, Civility, and Culture of Care.  In all we do, we promote the welfare and positive transformation of individuals, communities, and societies, and commit to uphold the public's trust and confidence, not only in following laws and regulations, but in following high standards of ethical behavior.

The University views the Values of Accountability, Integrity, and Excellence as the foundational supports for the Values of Civility and Culture of Care. At all times, but especially in times of difficulty or divisiveness, we revisit and reinvest in these Values. We welcome All.  We listen to all views.  We treat everyone with respect.  We embrace debate.  We foster civil discourse.  We protect free speech.  We champion academic freedom.  When we do these things, we act in ways beyond the minimums set by law or regulation and embody the high ethical standards that align with the Values of the University and its community.

This Statement of Ethical Conduct is a set of values-based statements that demonstrate these commitments.

STATEMENT OF POLICY

All University employees, students, volunteers, employees of affiliated organizations who are paid through the University, vendors of the University and others acting on behalf of the University will maintain the highest level of ethical standards and comply with all applicable State and Federal laws and regulations and University policies. Additionally, each such individual will:

• Protect the integrity of all University business and transactions by avoiding engagement in any actions (directly or indirectly) that are inconsistent with the State and Local procurement laws rules and regulations and avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest. Report potential, perceived, or actual conflicts of interest as required by law, regulation, policy, or agreement (Conflicts of Interest and Outside Employment Activity - 4.0170R; Financial Conflict of Interest  in  Sponsored Projects, 2.0830P; Procurement Regulation - 13.0010R).
• Adhere to policies and programs that promote the highest standards of ethics, integrity and professional practices in the  performance of our educational, research, scholarly and community outreach activities (Academic Freedom, 4.0200P).
• Adhere to policies and procedures regarding the employment of relatives and partners to prevent conflicts of interest, actual and perceived. (Employment of Relatives Regulation 4.0050R; Amorous or Sexual Relationship Policy 1.0070P)
• Adhere to policies and procedures regarding the employment of relatives to prevent conflicts of interest, actual and perceived. (Employment of Relatives Regulation 4.0050R)
• Maintain and protect the confidentiality and security of information entrusted to us by the University or its customers, except when disclosure is authorized or legally mandated. (Student Records-Accessing Policy 2.0620P).
• Not use University funds, property, equipment, services, or things of value for or in aid of political parties or candidates for public office.
• Not use University funds, property, equipment, services, systems, information, time and effort or position for personal gain.
• Protect the University's assets and resources and ensure their proper use by preventing fraud, waste, and abuse. (Fraud Prevention and Detection 1.0110R).
• Adhere to the principle that the public's business should be conducted in the public view by observing and following the letter and spirit of Florida’s Public Records and Sunshine laws as embodied in Chapters 119 and 286, Florida Statutes.
• Adhere to good health and safety practices and comply with all environmental health and safety laws and regulations (Comprehensive Environmental Health and Safety Policy 6.0150P).
• Comply with the University's accounting policies and procedures, maintain strong internal controls at all times, and not   make any false or misleading entries in the University's records under any circumstances.
• Strive for excellence in the performance of our duties, mindful of cost and appropriate authorization.
• Nurture a climate of care, concern, and civility towards others, recognizing the variety of our backgrounds and commonality of our humanity.
• Uphold the University’s commitment to principles of freedom of speech, thought, and academics.
• Report through appropriate means and channels any dishonesty, fraud, misconduct, violations, or neglect of duty, when discovered. We will appropriately investigate all such reports and require warranted corrective action and discipline, in accordance with University policies and procedures and the law.

These are some of the most prevalent areas of concern. However, this list is not intended to be comprehensive. For additional guidance on specific issues, please see other University of North Florida Policies and Regulations, the University of North Florida    Compliance and Ethics Office web page, and Part III of Chapter 112, Florida Statutes. Failure to act in accordance with the expectations outlined herein may result in consequences up to and including termination.  Comments and questions regarding this Statement or other compliance and ethics issues may be directed to compliance@unf.edu.

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