The University of Oregon has a duty to educate students to be responsible citizens and provide instruction, research, and public service programs that contribute to the maintenance and growth of a healthy state, national, and world economy. All employees, officers, students, and volunteers acting on behalf of the university have a responsibility to work towards the fulfillment of our mission and conduct themselves ethically, with the highest integrity, and in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies.

The UO is committed to conducting its affairs in ways that promote mutual trust and public confidence. We strive for excellence in our pursuit of knowledge and maintain high standards in all activities and duties. The UO upholds the following standards as the foundation for a civil, respectful, and nurturing environment when engaging in teaching, research, public service, and administrative activities:

Honesty and Integrity – We demonstrate honesty in our communication and conduct while managing ourselves with integrity. We uphold the values of this code and make decisions based upon the greater good, conducting ourselves free of personal conflicts, self-dealing, using resources for personal benefit or gain, or appearances of impropriety.

Respect– We demonstrate respect towards the rights and dignity of others; show concern for the welfare of others; expect equality, impartiality, openness, and due process by demonstrating equity and fairness without reference to individual bias; and refrain from discriminating against, harassing, or threatening others.

Stewardship and Compliance – We utilize resources and information entrusted to our care in a wise, ethical, and prudent manner in order to achieve our educational mission and strategic objectives. We uphold civic virtues and duties by obeying laws and policies.

Accountability and Responsibility – We take responsibility for our choices and actions by showing accountability and not assigning or shifting blame or taking improper credit. We act with responsibility by reporting unethical and illegal conduct to the appropriate authorities, including supervisors, management, or responsible university offices, including the Office of Internal Audit, and, when appropriate, external authorities including law enforcement.

The UO expects incidences of report fraud, waste, and/or abuse to be reported. Hotlines are available to make reports of fraud, waste, and abuse: 855-388-2710. The Office of Internal Audit will review and investigate as appropriate all reports and, when warranted by the facts, require corrective action and discipline in accordance with policy and law. Employees who make a good faith report of suspected fraud, waste, or abuse are protected from retaliation, in accordance with the Oregon Revised Statute 659.