Financial Operations Code of Ethics

I. Purpose 

The purpose of this statement/policy is to comply with the requirement for an ethics policy to be written by all agencies of the Commonwealth. This requirement is part of the Agency Risk Management and Internal Control Standards (ARMICS) implemented by the Virginia Department of Accounts.

II. Statement/Policy 

All Offices within the University's Financial Operations division shall provide superior customer service while ensuring proper internal controls and maintaining compliance with University, Commonwealth, and Federal laws and policies. All departments will conduct their affairs and manage the University's financial records with the highest level of professionalism and in an ethical manner so as to ensure that those records meet the test of public scrutiny and prudent fiscal stewardship.

The adopted values and work accomplished by all finance personnel are based on high ethical standards. Ethics focus on behavioral choices made in the execution of duties and responsibilities. The professional ethics for all finance employees include:

Trust

Rely on others to uphold their covenants, believe in their ability and willingness to do so, rely on and be confident in the character, ability, strength, and truth of others.

Honesty

Be fair and straight-forward in conduct, refuse to harbor hidden agenda, commit to objective decision making, where each individual, unit, or department is treated fairly in an environment free from bias or favoritism.

Integrity

Adhere to the University's values and make decisions based on the greater good of the University and not to the individual. Avoid conflicts of interest by meeting the University's Conflict of Interest Policy.

Respect

Believe that all members of the University community are worthy of high regard and should be treated with civility, consideration and professionalism.

Reliability

Provide full, fair, accurate, timely, and understandable work. Take responsibility for the work and services performed. Be responsive to the needs of the University community and address their concerns timely and completely.

Due Care

Exercise due professional care in the performance of our work. Treat confidential information as such; adhere to good data stewardship. Ensure that there is compliance with University, Commonwealth and Federal laws/regulations.

Continuing Education

Continue to enhance our professional competencies by participating in professional development opportunities. The continuing education of the University staff should be monitored and promoted.

Approved by the Board of Visitors, September 14, 2007
Revised and approved by the Board of Visitors, March 26, 2010