College Procedure Number/Title:

Howard Community College commits itself to the highest standards of ethical treatment of its students and employees and also holds employees to the highest standards for ethical conduct. These standards will be in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations and with college policies and procedures. Beyond the laws, regulations, policies and procedures, employees are asked to thoughtfully consider the ethical implications of all actions.

Maryland State Ethics Law

Howard Community College employees are subject to all of the provisions of the Maryland State Ethics Law and Code of Conduct as they apply to state employees and are responsible for becoming familiar with all provisions of the State Ethics Law, State Government Article, Title 15.

The law and code of conduct include the following key provisions:

  1. There will be no conflict of interest or even the appearance of conflict of interest between an employee’s work responsibilities and any other interests, business associations, or activities of any kind. A conflict of interest situation is one in which an employee influences or is in a position to influence HCC decisions for personal financial gain or benefits. A conflict of interest situation is also one in which outside activities substantially interfere with an employee’s obligations to students, colleagues, or the college.
  2. An employee may not contract with the college as a vendor, as either an individual or through a business capacity.  Additionally, a business that an employee has a financial interest in may not contract with the college as a vendor.  This prohibition applies regardless of the value of the contract.
  3. Employees are obligated to maintain confidentiality of student and employee information.
  4. Board members and key employees are required to disclose information as provided by the law.

Howard Community College Conduct Requirements

Howard Community College expects that its employees will meet ethical and professional standards for personal conduct and work performance detailed in "Employee Code of Conduct" procedure 63.09.14.

Infractions

Infractions of this policy include, but are not limited to: violations of college policies, procedures and practices; insubordination; immorality; illegal acts; willful neglect of duty; or unprofessional or unethical conduct. Misconduct will result in disciplinary action and may be cause for suspension or dismissal.  Additionally, an employee may be subject to an enforcement action by the State Ethics Commission.

Reporting of Criminal Convictions

Any college employee who is convicted of a felony, any offense involving possession, use, or distribution of controlled substances or paraphernalia, any offense involving violence or theft, or any offense requiring registration as a sex offender must immediately report such conviction to the employee's supervisor.  Whether the conviction has an effect on employment status will be determined by the supervisor after consultation with human resources and other appropriate personnel.

Effective Date:  05/10/13