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 is that the most qualified candidates are selected. However, the University recognizes that the appointment of two or more family members, especially within the same department, may lead to abuse and generate pressure 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 decisions are based on each applicant’s qualifications and work history. To be considered an applicant for a specific posted position, all interested person(s) must submit an on-line application in Workday. All University policies and procedures governing hiring practices must be followed.
Faculty and staff members are not permitted to participate or influence in any way the hiring, promoting, terminating, salary setting, evaluating of performance, or making vital decisions concerning the employment of his/her family members. A faculty or staff member may not directly supervise his/her family. In order to prevent potential conflicts of interest, related parties must disclose their relationship to the Hiring Officer and Human Resources.
110.2 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 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 and submitted to Human Resources for approval.
110.3 UNIVERSITY STAFF WHO ARE COVERED BY COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS
University staff who are covered by a collective bargaining agreement should refer to the appropriate article in their contract.
Policy No: 110
Effective Date: 12/04/2014
Revised Date: 03/19/2019
Last Reviewed Date: 07/01/2019
Supersedes Policy Number(s): 108, 110 (02/01/1990)
Applicability: All Faculty and Staff Members
Cross-reference: Staff Requisitioning, Recruitment, Selection, Reference Checks, Employment Offer, and Offer Letters - Policy 101, Posting of Position Openings - Policy 104, Employment of Non-U.S. Citizens - Policy 108