East Carolina University Faculty Manual

APPENDIX I.

ECU POLICY ON CONFLICTS OF INTEREST AND COMMITMENT

II. The Concepts at Issue

The distinction between conflicts of interest and commitment is not always clear. In general, conflict of commitment relates to allocation of time and should become apparent in the annual review process conducted by the administrative superior. Conflict of interest involves matters which might unduly influence employee judgment in the conduct of employee affairs, such that personal financial advantage is or might be unduly gained.

More specifically, conflict of interest occurs when related personal considerations, e.g., employment of a spouse, potentially compromise the faculty or professional staff member's objectivity in fulfilling University duties or responsibilities, including research activities. Conflict of commitment occurs when the pursuit of outside activities involves an expenditure of time that potentially interferes with the faculty or professional staff member's obligations to students, to colleagues, and/or to the missions of the University.

The goal of this policy is to ensure that all potential conflicts of interest or commitment are disclosed so that appropriate administrative interventions may eliminate, avoid, or manage them. These policies, however, are not intended to limit responsible external activities.