ATTACHMENT
4
Committee Code of Ethics
Senior level academic 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
the institution 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, the search
committee should commit itself 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
retaining search records in compliance with institutional, state, and EEOC
guidelines and disposing of records in a manner which retains candidate
confidentiality.
- Follow all by-laws of the institution and laws of the
state and nation.
- Affirm that only the chair of the committee speaks for the
committee and only the president/chancellor/board speak for the
institution.