Promotion of Ethical Conduct Policy

Status: Endorsed by Audit and Risk Management Committee April 19, 2007.

Purpose 

As a nonprofit organization at the forefront of undergraduate liberal arts education, DePauw University’s policy is to uphold the highest legal, ethical, and moral standards.  DePauw’s donors and volunteers support DePauw University because they trust the University to be good stewards of their resources and to uphold rigorous standards of conduct.  DePauw’s reputation for integrity and excellence requires the careful observance of all applicable laws and regulations, as well as a scrupulous regard for the highest standards of conduct and personal integrity.

Policy

DePauw University will comply with all applicable laws and regulations and expects its trustees, officers, and employees to conduct business in accordance with the letter and spirit of all relevant laws; to refrain from any illegal, dishonest, or unethical conduct; to act in a professional, businesslike manner; and to treat others with respect. Trustees and officers should not use their positions to obtain unreasonable or excessive services or expertise from DePauw University’s faculty and staff.

In general, the use of good judgment based on high ethical principles will guide trustees, officers, and employees with respect to lines of acceptable conduct.  However, if a situation arises where it is difficult to determine the proper course of conduct, or where questions arise concerning the propriety of certain conduct by an individual or others, the matter should be brought to the attention of DePauw University.  Employees should contact their immediate supervisor and, if necessary, the Executive Director of Human Resources.  Board members should raise any such concerns with their Committee Chair or the Secretary of the University’s Board of Trustees.

Infractions of this Policy for the Promotion of Ethical Conduct are to be reported as set forth in DePauw University's Whistleblower Policy.