Ethics
We serve in positions of public trust, we must be mindful of our ethical obligations and how the public may view our actions. The State of Ohio requires all employees of the State to be aware of the Code of Ethics and the Conflicts of Interest provisions in the Ohio Revised Code. Beyond the specific requirement by law, however, we all should keep in mind that we are part of a public institution and are subject to critical review by the public. Often that review can be much more demanding than the law itself.
In this arena, the appearance of a conflict of interest relationship may be as troublesome as, or worse than, an actual conflict. The best defense is to apply good common sense before the situation arises. We urge all to avoid what others might potentially perceive as compromising relationships.
As employees of an institution of the State of Ohio, all Miami University faculty and staff are subject to certain statutes of the State of Ohio relating to conflicts of interest and ethics.
The close relationship Miami has with the Oxford community along with the growth of sponsored research, consulting contracts, staff involvement in the management of private business, and similar developments in recent years have complicated the relationship between the University, government, and industry. One of the consequences has been to increase the dangers of conflicts of interest between the University obligations a faculty or staff member has and the obligations he/she may assume in extramural activities involving sponsored research, private business ventures, business ventures of family members, consulting, etc.
THE OHIO ETHICS COMMISSION
Ohio's Ethics Law
Ethics is Everybody's Business
REPORTING FRAUD
Substitute House Bill Number 66
Fraud Hotline 1-866-FRAUD-OH or www.auditor.state.oh.us
2011-2012 POLICY & INFORMATION MANUAL
MUPIM Section 3.12 Statement on Conflicts of Interest
CONFIDENTIAL REPORTING
EthicsPoint
It has long been recognized that the only truly effective safeguard against a conflict-of-interest situation is the integrity of the faculty and staff. A codification of the complex ethical questions involved, even if possible, would be unduly restrictive. At the same time, even the most alert and conscientious individual may at times be in doubt concerning the propriety of certain actions or relationships. Whenever such doubt arises, the University expects the individual involved to consult with Robin Parker, General Counsel, (513-529-6734) before making a decision.
Because of the importance of avoiding conflicts of interest and other ethical problems, and as a requirement of law, the above webpages and documents are being made available.