ethics_search

Search Committee Code of Ethics Policy

Purpose

To assert the ethical commitment of members of search committees.

Policy

Searches are an opportunity for an institution to demonstrate high ethical standards. Searches done well win the respect and praise of candidates who are drawn from across the nation, and sometimes, the world. In addition, an effective search is an opportunity for Eastern to show itself favorably to many groups and individuals (e.g., national references, professional colleagues). To attract the best candidates, to retain until closure those who are most competitive, and to fulfill a responsibility to treat candidates confidentially and ethically, members of search committees shall sign a statement committing to:

• Create a search environment that respects the rights and dignity of all persons.
• Maintain in strict confidence and in perpetuity:
  • All information about candidates secured during the search process (e.g., names, written materials, references)
  • All search committee conversations and deliberations
• Put aside personal agendas, biases or political positions so that each candidate has an honest and fair evaluation.
• Disclose all conflicts of interest to the chair of the committee or the entire committee.
• Represent the institution as a whole rather than individuals or group stakeholders.
• Ensure that no member of the committee intends to become a candidate for the position.
• Receive candidate permission prior to reference checking.
• Establish accuracy of information on candidates prior to disclosure to the committee.
• Ensure the safety of records after the search is completed, forwarding all search records to the Affirmative Action office to be retained in compliance with institutional, state, and EEOC guidelines.
• Follow all by-laws of the institution and laws of the state and nation (State and Federal civil rights laws regulated by EEOC, BOLI, and US Dept. of Labor.)
• Affirm that only the chair of the committee speaks for the committee and only the President/Board speaks for the institution.

Any employee who does not wish to sign an ethical commitment statement will not be considered for appointment to a search committee.

 

Adopted 2/14/05

 

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