Community Values and Code of Conduct

Community Values
and Code of Conduct

2 | COMMUNITY VALUES AND CODE OF CONDUCT

contents
4 I. PURPOSE, II. APPLICABILITY
5 III. COMMUNITY VALUES
7 IV. CODE OF CONDUCT
Value 1: Diversity and a Global Perspective
Value 2: Excellence
Value 3: Freedom in the Pursuit of Knowledge
Value 4: Integrity
Value 5: Transparency and Participation in Decision-Making
14 V. REPORTING VIOLATIONS
OR CONCERNS
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | 3

I. PURPOSE
The University of South Alabama (USA) Community Values
and Code of Conduct supports our Mission Statement,
“The University of South Alabama, with a global reach
and special focus on the Gulf Coast, strives to make a
difference in the lives of those it serves through promoting
discovery, health, and learning.” We realize that to
accomplish this mission, the University of South Alabama
(USA) must aspire to uphold the highest ethical standards
in its students, faculty, and staff.
The Community Values and Code of Conduct elaborates
on the Core Values of the University and provides an
ethical framework, intended to guide the behavior of all
those affiliated with the University. It points to detailed
University Policies, rather than expanding on, superseding
or conflicting with them.
II. APPLICABILITY
This document serves as a statement of principles and
responsibilities for the USA campus community, including
but not limited to trustees, administrators, faculty, staff,
students, visiting scholars, and university-authorized
volunteers acting on behalf of USA. This document can
also be shared with visitors, vendors and consultants, who
are encouraged to abide by our same principles when
engaging with the USA community.
4 | COMMUNITY VALUES AND CODE OF CONDUCT

III. COMMUNITY VALUES
USA’s Community Values are designed to inspire and guide members of the USA campus
community in pursuit of our mission, and are intended to provide a foundation for our
conduct. The Community Values should be used as a lens through which we make
decisions that affect the USA community. USA’s Community Values are defined as follows:
Value 1. Diversity and a Global Perspective: USA seeks a student body, faculty
and staff that represents the diversity of the local and regional community we serve,
and our actions should demonstrate our commitment to value each member of the USA
community with an open mind and global viewpoint. We acknowledge our best results are
achieved through reflection of and appreciation for the diversity of our community.
USA values the dignity, worth, and contributions of all members of the USA community,
thoughtful and respectful engagement with a broad collection of perspectives and
experiences essential to intellectual growth, and an inclusive culture in which all members
can engage meaningfully and contribute to our collective success. By incorporating a
broad range of human experiences and a rich variety of perspectives, we increase our
capacity for learning, enrich the quality and experience of campus life and patient care,
and better prepare our students for their future.
Value 2. Excellence: Every member of the USA community should aim to provide
the highest quality of services responsive to the needs of our students, patients, employees,
family members, as well as our business associates, and the community at large. USA
takes great pride in its local and regional influence and reputation, and we realize our
community benefits positively when we are performing at our best.
To achieve excellence, we must monitor our results and benchmark against other peer
organizations. We should avoid sacrificing quality for quantity whenever possible,
and always seek a team approach in pursuit of our goals. We must be open and honest,
particularly when we make a mistake so that we can learn and improve the quality of our
work. Members of the USA community should feel comfortable admitting when they make
mistakes, and leaders are responsible for promoting an environment where problems
are raised and solved without fear of retaliation. Members of the USA community should
always feel comfortable approaching their supervisor to discuss any type of matter,
including errors.
Value 3. Freedom in the Pursuit of Knowledge: Members of the USA
community are committed to freedom of inquiry, freedom of expression, and to healthy
and civil discussion and debate.
Academic freedom is essential to USA’s mission. Members of the USA community
are encouraged to discuss all relevant matters in the classroom; to explore all
avenues of scholarship, research, and creative expression; to speak or write as a public
citizen without institutional restraint or discipline (if expression is not unlawful, does not
falsely defame a specific person, does not constitute a threat or harassment, or violate
privacy or confidentiality per University policies); to foster intellectual honesty and
freedom of inquiry; to respect those with differing views and allow others to express
their views; to acknowledge when the individual is not speaking for the University; to
seek and state the truth as we see it; to develop and maintain our scholarly competence;
to submit our knowledge and claims to peer review; and to work together to foster the
education of students.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | 5

Value 4. Integrity: To best serve the public trust, all members of the USA community
should conduct activities with honesty and integrity, both in fact and in appearance.
To continue building a stronger, increasingly positive reputation in our community, we
realize the trust we earn derives from our level of integrity.
As members of the USA community, we should be fair and principled in University and
USA Health business transactions and other related professional activities, and act in
good faith when dealing with both internal constituents and external entities. Our conduct
should always reflect our positions of trust and loyalty with respect to members of our
own University and surrounding communities. We should conscientiously fulfill obligations
towards others, and communicate ethical standards of conduct through instruction
and example. When we make a statement or sign our names to any document, we are
confirming that the statement is true to the best of our knowledge. We do not falsify
documents, make up entries or make it appear as though we documented something that
we did not.
Value 5. Transparency and Participation in Decision-Making: To assure
our actions are in the best interest of the University and the community we serve, we aim
for our decision-making processes to be transparent and inclusive. Additionally, we need
to be self-conscious of potential conflicts of interest or commitment, whether of a financial,
personal, or professional nature.
In our responsibility of serving the public trust, we must be mindful of conflicts of interest,
both real and perceived. Activities, pursuits or interests that detract from the ability to
perform our duties should be avoided. We recognize it is human nature that by accepting
even a small gift we are then potentially beholden in some way to the giver.
While these values are reflected in our various University Policies and Procedures, we have
developed the following Code of Conduct which expands upon key attributes of each of
our five Community Values.
6 | COMMUNITY VALUES AND CODE OF CONDUCT

IV. CODE OF CONDUCT
The USA Code of Conduct is essentially an application of our
Community Values to more specific, day-to-day behaviors
and activities, helping us to remain consistent with our
mission, and to proceed lawfully and in compliance with our
highly regulated industry. These standards were developed
to highlight and summarize specific guidelines required by
many of our University Policies and Procedures (including
but not limited to the Faculty Handbook, Staff Employee
Handbook, and The Lowdown). Our Code of Conduct does
not replace, limit, or otherwise alter any existing policies.
Managers have a special responsibility: to set the right
tone for learning and understanding in their work areas.
It is essential that everyone understands how their work
relates to USA’s values. That means managers must talk
about USA’s values and encourage all employees (and
other members of the USA community) to ask questions.
Answering a question with “because we’ve always done it
that way” stifles innovation and keeps us from being our
best. Managers also must strive to set role model examples
and take action when ethical issues are raised. They are
responsible for ensuring that their employees are familiar
with this Code and for supporting employees who report
violations in good faith.
The following attributes of our Code of Conduct are
extensive but not all-inclusive, and derive from our Core
(Community) Values:
Value 1: Diversity and a Global Perspective
Value 2: Excellence
Value 3: Freedom in the Pursuit of Knowledge
Value 4: Integrity
Value 5: Transparency and Participation in Decision-Making
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | 7

Related Policies,
Regulations and Resources
Faculty Handbook
Policy of Non-Discrimination and EO/EA,
EO/EA Complaint Procedures,
Title IX
Staff Employee Handbook
EO/EA Employer,
Strategic Diversity Plan,
Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence,
Discrimination and/or Harassment Policy
The Lowdown
Non-Discrimination & Equal Access
Sexual Misconduct & Complaint Resolution
Office of Community Engagement
Value 1: Diversity and a
Global Perspective
1.A Harassment and Discrimination
All USA faculty, staff, students and patients have a right to work, learn and be treated in
a safe environment free of discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment.
We aim to foster behavior that results in equality among all members of our community,
including to those we serve. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (EO/AA)
employer, we don’t discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy,
sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, religion, age, genetic
information, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable legally protected
basis. This shall apply in the acceptance of students; the recruitment and employment of
faculty and staff; the awarding of grants, scholarships and other funds; in the acceptance
of grants and donations; in the treatment of our patients; in our relationships with vendors
and other business partners; and in the operation of all courses, programs and services.
1.B. Community Engagement
USA is a committed neighbor. We recognize that engagement with the community
enriches scholarship and research, enhances teaching and learning, prepares an
engaged workforce, strengthens civic responsibility, and contributes to the public good.
We foster collaboration between USA and our community by increasing the capacity to
develop and strengthen partnerships. We support students in attaining opportunities
for experiential learning through internships, service-learning, and volunteerism. We
also connect community members to the many cultural, educational, research, and
entertainment offerings of the campus, while supporting faculty and staff to develop
professional skills focused on improving community engagement.
1.C. Collegiality
We should apply the Golden Rule; treat others as you would like them to treat you.
Let’s be mindful of how we approach others in the USA community; even in disagreement
we should be able to treat one another with kindness, dignity and respect.
8 | COMMUNITY VALUES AND CODE OF CONDUCT

Related Policies,
Regulations and Resources
Information Security Awareness Training,
Preventing Workplace Discrimination, Harassment,
and Sexual Misconduct
Department of Safety and Environmental Compliance
Faculty Handbook
Biosafety
Staff Employee Handbook
Safety,
Employee Vehicle Safety Guidelines,
Smoking and Tobacco Use,
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report,
Workplace Violence
The Lowdown
Safety and Environmental Compliance,
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program,
Motorized Vehicles, Parking and Traffic,
Pest Control,
Respect for Health, Safety, and Welfare,
Traffic and Parking Regulations
Value 2: Excellence
2.A. Education and Training
Members of the USA community are periodically assigned training courses which
address areas of high-risk, and help us to better understand how to avoid such
risk. We are expected to complete these courses in a timely manner, for the sake of
lowering our risks, increasing our efficiencies, and pursuing excellence.
2.B. Commitment to Environmental Health and Safety
USA understands that in order to attract and retain quality students and staff,
we must provide a safe and healthy work environment. To accomplish this, all
members of the USA community must share in this responsibility by following safe
workplace practices, including: participate in applicable education sessions; use
appropriate personal safety equipment; report accidents, injuries, and unsafe
situations; maintain security, including securing University assets and facilities;
protect the environment, including learning and following applicable safety and
environmental related policies; carefully handle hazardous waste and other
potentially harmful agents; protect the health of others and themselves by not
smoking or using tobacco on USA campuses or managed properties; refrain
from engaging in risky behavior such as bringing controlled substances, firearms,
explosives, or other weapons on USA premises.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | 9

Related Policies,
Regulations and Resources
Office of Research Compliance and Assurance,
Research Misconduct Policy,
Responsible Conduct of Research Training,
Faculty Handbook
Faculty Research,
Human Subjects,
Responsible Conduct of Research,
Standards in the Conduct of Research
Export Controls Compliance Policy
Faculty Handbook
Export Control Policy
University Brand Guidelines,
Founder Equity in Technology Licensing
Patent and Invention Policy,
Tangible Research Property Policy,
Faculty Handbook
Equity Policy
Patent and Invention Policy
Copyright Policy,
Authorship and Publication Policy,
Faculty Handbook
Copyright Policy,
Staff Employee Handbook
Copyright Policy,
The Lowdown
Copyright Policy for Students
Value 3: Freedom in the
Pursuit of Knowledge
3.A. Responsible Conduct in Research
USA researchers and scholars are expected to protect people and humanely treat animals
involved in research or teaching, and follow and demonstrate accountability for sponsors
and regulatory requirements. Members of the USA community involved in research
activities must ensure originality of work, accurately and fairly publish information, and
fairly assign authorship credit on the basis of intellectual contributions. We must recognize
that failure to do so can result in financial and/or reputational damage to both employees
and the University. In conclusion, we are responsible for ensuring that research and
academic work is conducted with the highest integrity, and in compliance with federal and
state laws, and university policies.
3.B. Export Controls
We encourage and support open research and the free exchange of ideas, but we
are also committed to complying with United States export control laws, regulations,
economic sanctions and trade embargoes. These laws control the release of certain
technologies and information outside of the U.S. and to foreign nationals within the U.S.
and exist to protect our country, its citizens, and the innovative superiority of the U.S. for
reasons of national security, foreign policy, competitive trade, and the proliferation of
weapons of mass destruction or military technologies. If you are traveling abroad or
engaging in distance learning, or activities that may be subject to export control laws,
please contact the Office of Export Controls Compliance for guidance.
3.C. Intellectual Property
Intellectual property includes inventions, literary and artistic works, symbols, names,
images, and designs used in commerce that are produced or used within the university.
We must be diligent in protecting USA’s intellectual property through measures such as
forming non-disclosure and non-compete agreements, limiting the sharing of information
with the public, keeping records in secure areas, and following clear guidelines as to the
ownership of property and categorization of information as confidential.
3.D. Copyrighted Material
All members of the USA community should be aware of and abide by applicable copyright
laws which include protections for works of literature, music, drama, film, sculpture, visual
art, architecture, and other creative media. Before using any materials, we must check to
ensure that they are not protected under copyright law, and if they are, must obtain the
owner’s permission prior to such use.
10 | COMMUNITY VALUES AND CODE OF CONDUCT

Related Policies,
Regulations and Resources
Faculty Handbook
State Ethics Law
Professional Ethics
Staff Employee Handbook
State Ethics Law/Gifts
The Lowdown
Code of Student Conduct
Value 4: Integrity
4.A. Compliance with Applicable Laws, Regulations,
Policies and Procedures
Following the law, both in letter and in spirit, and doing the right thing, are the foundations
on which USA’s ethical standards rest. Adherence to USA policies and procedures will
keep us compliant with applicable state and federal laws & regulations. When these
policies and procedures are unclear, we are expected to take it upon ourselves to obtain
clarity from the University’s subject matter experts. University policies and procedures are
designed to guide our everyday responsibilities, set minimum standards, and establish
expectations. We should transact all University business in conformance with policies
and procedures and accordingly have an obligation to become familiar with those that
apply to our areas of responsibility. We are each expected to seek clarification on a policy
or other University directive we find to be unclear, outdated or at odds with University
objectives. Failure to comply can have serious adverse consequences both for individuals
and for the University, in terms of reputation, finances and the health and safety of the
community.
4.B. Internal Controls
Internal controls are processes which help ensure that USA’s business is carried out
in accordance with our University policies and procedures, applicable laws and
regulations, and sound business practices. They help to promote efficient operations,
accurate financial reporting, protection of assets and responsible fiscal management.
All members of the USA community are responsible for internal controls. Each business
unit or department head is specifically responsible for ensuring that internal controls are
established, properly documented and maintained for activities within their jurisdiction.
Faculty Handbook
Professional Ethics,
Student Academic Conduct Policy
Confidential Data Protection Policy,
Information Security Awareness Training
Faculty Handbook
Computer Use Policy
Staff Employee Handbook
Electronic Media (E-mail, Voicemail, and the Internet),
Computer Network Connections
The Lowdown
Student Record Policy,
Student Computer Policy
Community Reservation Policy,
Student Center General Facility Policy,
USA Posting Policy,
Traffic and Parking Policy,
Web Policies
Faculty Handbook
Use of University Space, Facilities and Grounds
The Lowdown
Student Services,
Speech, Expressive Activities, and Use of University
Space, Facilities, and Grounds
4.C. Academic Integrity
USA’s ability to achieve its purposes depends upon the quality and integrity of the
academic work that our faculty, staff, and students perform. Academic freedom can
flourish only in a community of scholars which recognizes that intellectual integrity,
with its accompanying rights and responsibilities, lies at the heart of its mission.
Observing basic honesty in one’s work, words, ideas, and actions is a principle to
which all members of the community are required to subscribe.
4.D. Responsible Use and Protection of Sensitive Information
We are the creators and custodians of many types of sensitive information, such as that of
students, patients, employees, alumni, donors, research sponsors, as well as confidential
or proprietary business information relating to University operations. Members of the
USA community are expected to comply with applicable legal, contractual, and policy
obligations to maintain the confidentiality of such information, protect it from improper
disclosure, and protect the privacy interests of individuals. To meet these responsibilities,
University employees are expected to follow all information security (IS) related policies
and procedures.
4.E. Use of University Resources
All members of the USA community are obligated to support the University’s commitment
to responsible stewardship of university resources, including but not limited to, land,
buildings, facilities, funds, information, intellectual property, office supplies, equipment,
university logos, computers, networks, software, telephone, internet services, or any
resources purchased by the University. USA resources are reserved for the pursuit of its
primary missions of education, patient care and research, and other lawful and authorized
USA business purposes. USA resources must not be used by employees for personal gain
or for the benefit of third parties, with the exception of incidental use of phones, computers
and e-mail when not in conflict with University duties (and at the discretion of your
supervisor). Members of the USA community are expected to treat University property with
care and to adhere to laws, policies and procedures for the acquisition, use, maintenance,
record-keeping and disposal of University property.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | 11

Related Policies,
Regulation and Resources
USA COI Informational Website,
Conflict of Interest and Conflict of Commitment Policy,
External Professional Activities Policy,
Institutional Conflict of Interest Policy,
Conflict of Interest in Research
Staff Employee Handbook
State Ethics Law/Gifts
Value 5: Transparency
and Participation in
Decision-Making
5.A. Conflicts of Interest and Commitment
While USA understands, respects and appreciates that its employees may be involved in
outside activities (financial, business, professional, academic, recreational, community, or
other), we are expected to devote primary professional allegiance to the University and to
our mission of teaching, patient care, research, and public service. Outside employment
must not interfere with University duties. Outside professional activities, personal financial
interests, or acceptance of benefits from third parties can create actual or perceived
conflicts between the University’s mission and an individual’s private interests.
A conflict of interest is a situation, arrangement or circumstance where the employee’s
outside or private interests or relationships interfere or appear to interfere with those of
the University, or cast doubt on the fairness or integrity of the University’s business dealings,
particularly from a financial or competitive perspective. A conflict of commitment exists
when an employee’s time spent with external relationships or activities may degrade the
employee’s ability to fulfill their USA job responsibilities.
Members of the USA community who have certain professional or financial interests
are expected to disclose them in compliance with applicable conflict of interest/conflict
of commitment policies. In all matters, community members are expected to take
appropriate steps, including consultation if issues are unclear, to avoid both conflicts of
interest and/or the appearance of such conflicts.
5.B. Open and Effective Communication
USA is committed to open communication and an environment of transparency.
Communicating openly with both internal and external constituents improves relationships
and allows the university to operate more effectively. Employees who have questions
about a policy, decision, or activity are encouraged to discuss the issue with the
individual(s) directly involved before discussing it with others. Supervisors are expected
to respond in a timely manner to concerns and communicate with all individuals involved
in the matter. The university is committed to providing the community with accurate
information regarding the business and affairs of the university. For this reason, and in
order to provide a coordinated, accurate, and timely response, all media inquiries should
be directed to our Office of Marketing and Communications (ph # 251-460-6211), and
legislative inquiries to our Executive Director for Government Relations (ph# 251-460-7277).
5.C. Financial Reporting
All USA accounting and financial records, tax reports, expense reports, time sheets, leave
reports, effort reports, and other documents including those submitted to government
agencies, must be truthful, accurate, clear and complete. All published financial reports
will make full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosures as required under
generally accepted accounting principles. Certain individuals with responsibility for the
preparation of financial statements and disclosures, or elements thereof, may be required
to attest to the honesty and accuracy of submitted documents and reports. All decisions
and actions of members of the USA community are to be made for the sole purpose of
advancing the best interests of USA and the public good.
12 | COMMUNITY VALUES AND CODE OF CONDUCT

Staff Employee Handbook
State Ethics Law/Gifts
5.D. Gifts and Entertainment
Members of the USA community should not accept or solicit, directly or indirectly, anything
of economic value such as a gift, gratuity, favor, or entertainment which is, or may
appear to be, designed to influence official conduct in any manner, particularly from a
person who is seeking to obtain business or financial arrangements with USA. In some
approved situations business courtesies may be extended or accepted if in compliance
with provisions set forth in the USA Staff Employee Handbook or Faculty Handbook, but the
value of the gift rendered or accepted should never exceed de minimis value ($25).
Purchasing Policy
5.E. Purchase and Vendor Practices
All members of the USA community must act in a fair and professional manner when
engaging in commercial activities on behalf of the University, e.g., purchasing goods and
services. Commercial transactions must take place in a competitive environment free
from conflicts of interest. The University’s goal is to have a diverse pool of vendors and
suppliers and to obtain the best possible value based on quality, price, service, reliability,
and delivery terms. Goods and services may only be purchased by authorized individuals
consistent with USA policies and procedures. The USA Purchasing Department can provide
guidance concerning the full spectrum of University commercial activities involving the
purchase of goods and services.
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | 13

V. REPORTING VIOLATIONS
OR CONCERNS
Each member of the USA community is expected to report potential violations of state or
federal law, regulations, statutes, USA policies or procedures, or concerns about a violation,
that come to his/her attention. Managers have a special duty to adhere to the standards
set forth in this document, to recognize violations, report through applicable channels,
and to enforce the standards. Violations of applicable laws, policies and standards, or
retaliation against anyone who reports possible violations, may result in an adverse
employment action.
Confidentiality of individuals reporting potential violations will be maintained to the extent
practicable, particularly if reported anonymously through the Ethics and Compliance
Hotline. Suspected violations should be reported in good faith. The complaint process
shall not be used to bring frivolous or malicious complaints against faculty, staff or
administrators. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken if information has not been
provided in good faith.
All individuals reporting violations in good faith will be protected from retaliation by
USA’s No Retaliation Policy (“Retaliation Prohibited” in the Staff Employee Handbook).
Managers and supervisors are responsible for knowing the legal and regulatory
requirements that pertain to their areas of oversight and responsibility. They are
responsible for determining and ensuring that each community member has adequate
knowledge in order to do his/her work correctly and receives appropriate information and
training on an ongoing basis. Managers and Supervisors are especially encouraged to
foster an environment whereby employees feel comfortable bringing potential compliance
concerns to them.
There are several options for reporting concerns, including the following:
1. To your immediate supervisor
2. To an administrative office that has specialized expertise relating to your concern
3. To the Office of Compliance: ph # (251) 460-7115, or e-mail CCO@southalabama.edu
4. Via USA’s Ethics and Compliance Hotline, as follows:
Ethics & Compliance Hotline: SouthAlabama.edu/Hotline
Ethics & Compliance Hotline: (844) 666-3599*
5. For reporting student-related misconduct, please use Maxient, as follows:
https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?UnivofSouthAlabama
You may also inquire about policies or procedures, or request guidance from the
Office of Compliance’s “Questions, Inquiries, Suggestions” box.
* The Ethics & Compliance Hotline (phone option) is answered by a third party and the
information gathered is referred to USA’s Chief Compliance Officer for follow-up and
appropriate action.
Reporting Criminal Activity: USA Students, employees, patients and visitors are to report
any criminal offense or suspected criminal activity directly to the USA Police Department,
who can be reached via their website at https://www.southalabama.edu/departments/
police/ or by calling 251-460-6312.
Other References:
Ethics and Compliance Hotline Policy
Faculty Handbook
Non Retaliation Policy
Staff Employee Handbook
Retaliation Prohibited Policy
14 | COMMUNITY VALUES AND CODE OF CONDUCT

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA | 15

Univeristy of South Alabama
Office of Compliance
307 University Blvd., North, AD 245
Mobile, AL 36688
Ph: (251) 460–7115 | Fax: (251) 461–1537
CCO@southalabama.edu
southalabama.edu/departments/compliance