120.0 CONFLICT OF INTEREST

INTRODUCTION

KSU insists that all of its employees exhibit the highest level of ethical conduct in conducting their day-to-day business with vendors, employees or professional organizations. In addition to the guidelines included here, employees shall adhere to the University's Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct which is attached as Appendix B. This policy can also be accessed through the University Intranet.

A. PURPOSE

To provide employees with guidelines relating to what is and what is not acceptable behavior with respect to ethical conduct in dealing with employees, vendors, professional associations and other outside groups. All employees must avoid activities or relationships that conflict with KSU's interests or adversely affect KSU's reputation. The types of activities and relationships employees must avoid include, but are not limited to:

1. Accepting or soliciting a gift, favor, or service that is intended to, or might appear to, influence the employee's decision-making or professional conduct;
2. Accepting, agreeing to accept, or soliciting money or other tangible or intangible benefit in exchange for the employee's favorable decisions or actions in the performance of his or her job;
3. Accepting employment or compensation or engaging in any business or professional activity that might require disclosure of KSU's business operation;
4. Accepting employment or compensation that could reasonably be expected to impair the individual's independent judgment in the performance of official duties;
5. And making personal investments that are contrary to the KSU's interests.

Employees must disclose actual or potential conflicts to their supervisor as soon as they become aware of them. Failure to make required disclosures or resolve conflicts of interest satisfactorily can result in discipline, up to and including termination of employment.

B. SCOPE

1. General Guidelines

a These guidelines apply to all employees.

b Employees must not engage in any activities, transactions, or relationships that are incompatible with the impartial, objective, and effective performance of their duties. Examples of matters and relationships that could create a conflict of interest or a potential conflict, include, but are not limited to, when an employee

Update: March 26, 2013