POLICY NO: 110
EFFECTIVE DATE: 02/01/1990
EMPLOYMENT OF MEMBERS OF THE SAME FAMILY
University policy permits the employment of more than one member of a family (including
parents, siblings, spouse and children), whether or not the persons concerned are in the
same academic or administrative department. The University's sole concern, in such
appointments as in all others, is that faculty or staff members are the best candidates
with respect to the requisite academic or administrative qualifications for employment.
However, the University recognizes that the appointment of two or more family members,
especially within the same department, can lead to abuses and generate pressures and
prejudice among colleagues. To guard against such conflicts, the following practices
should be observed:
110.1 HIRING PRACTICES
Faculty and staff are welcome to refer relatives who are interested in working at the
University to Human Resources/Employment.
Employment decisions are based on each applicant's qualifications and work history.
University policies and procedures governing hiring practices must be followed.
110.2 RESTRICTIONS
Faculty and Staff members are not permitted to participate or influence in any way
hiring, promotion, termination, salary, performance evaluations or vital decisions
concerning the employment of a member of his/her family.
Any individual who makes an unauthorized offer of employment or a significant change in
conditions of employment involving family members assumes responsibility for any
penalties, liabilities and expenses which may arise out of that action.
110.3 EXCEPTIONS
A person under consideration for employment who has a relative employed by the
University in the same department, or in a department for which the relative has direct or
indirect administrative responsibility, may be employed if there is a compelling reason.
In such cases written permission must be obtained from the Dean of the School or Vice
President of the area.
While general responsibility for assuring adherence to this policy must rest with those
responsible for appointments and assignments, a particular responsibility for sensitivity
to the potential conflicts falls on the family members.
110.4 UNION EMPLOYEES
University employees who are covered by a collective bargaining agreement should refer
to the appropriate contract article, not to this policy.
Applicability: All Faculty & Staff
Cross-reference: Policy 101, Policy 104, Policy 108
Supersedes Policy Number(s): 108