Williams College Employee Handbook

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Conflict of Interest

Williams College expects that employees will perform their duties in accordance with the best interests of the College. Employees may not use their positions, or confidential knowledge gained as a result of their positions, for private or personal advantage. A conflict of interest can arise when an employee or a member of his or her family (1) has an existing or potential interest or relationship that impairs or might appear to impair his or her independent judgment in the discharge of responsibilities to the College or (2) may receive a material benefit from knowledge of information that is confidential to the College.

It is impossible to define all situations that might be considered conflicts, but situations that give rise to potential conflicts might include the personal use of College materials or facilities; relationships with businesses, firms, or organizations doing business with the College; official relationships with suppliers of other goods or services to the college; family relationships with other employees of the College; or personal gifts or gifts of entertainment of more than nominal value received from suppliers of goods and services or from persons associated or seeking to associate with the College.

Employees who find themselves in a situation that could be a real or perceived conflict of interest should immediately disclose the potential conflict to their supervisors. Certain key staff members are asked to disclose annually to the Vice President for Operations any relationship that could create a conflict of interest.

Written: Dec. 3, 2003
Approved: Jan. 16, 2004

Faculty Handbook . | . Administrative Staff Handbook . | . Support Staff Handbook