A conflict of commitment exists when an employee has a relationship that requires a commitment of time or effort to non-University activities, which results in the individual not being able to fully meet their university obligations. The University recognizes that external activities congruent with the professional expertise of employees can enhance one’s professional development and enrich the academic experiences of the institution’s students.
Innovation and entrepreneurial activities such as licensing of technology, consulting, or business start-ups can be critical to promoting economic development, which supports the mission of the University. However, the primary commitment of the faculty member’s time and intellectual energies must be devoted to the education, research/scholarship, and outreach programs of the University. Employees must understand their primary responsibilities to the University and operate in accordance with applicable academic handbooks, procedures, and other departmental requirements of the University.
All external activities should be discussed with and approved in advance by employee supervisors. Part-time retail and restaurant service positions are the only external affiliations which do not need to be disclosed. Additional information regarding outside compensated activities can be located in the Faculty Handbook.
Examples of outside activities that may cause conflicts of commitment
Examples of outside activities, which may not result in a conflict