Stakeholders Code of Conduct

Message from the

Rutgers University Foundation President

Dear Colleagues and Friends,

As President of the Rutgers University Foundation, I am proud to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ethical conduct, integrity, and transparency; principles vital to our purpose of generating philanthropic resources and facilitating meaningful engagement to advance the mission of Rutgers University. Our Stakeholders Code of Conduct serves as our compass, guiding our decisions and actions with our university and external partners to build and maintain trust with our community. This Code is our commitment to act with honor and uphold the highest ethical standards in every interaction. By engaging with the Rutgers University Foundation, you share an important responsibility and commitment to uphold these standards.

Thank you for your dedication to our shared vision and guiding principles.
Kimberly A. Hopely

Stakeholder Code of Conduct Guiding Principles

This Code applies to all engagements with stakeholders who partner with Rutgers University Foundation team members, including (but not limited to) university colleagues, volunteers, alumni, donors, vendors, event attendees, and members of the public. The objective of defining our stakeholders’ expectations is to ensure the highest integrity in our work and respect for all. Disregard for this Code may result in corrective action, including termination of contractual relationships, removal from Foundation events, suspension of partnership privileges, and referral to appropriate authorities when required by law.

Mutual Respect

We foster an environment of dignity and respect for all.

To maintain a culture of respect, Rutgers University Foundation is firmly committed to promoting an environment free of harassment, discrimination, retaliation, intimidation, or threatening conduct.

Diverse perspectives strengthen decision-making and enhance our work. Behavior that marginalizes, demeans, pressures, or excludes others is inconsistent with our organizational culture. Stakeholders are expected to demonstrate respectful conduct in all communications and activities related to the Foundation’s business.

• Exercising sound judgment and managing entrusted resources responsibly.
• Operating in compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies.
• Avoiding situations in which personal interests could improperly influence professional decisions.
• Refraining from discrimination or harassment.
• Reporting and disclosing any potential concerns or conflicts without delay

Integrity and Transparency

We are honest in our reporting, open in our communications, and accountable for our stewardship of funds.

Confidence in the Foundation’s work depends on accuracy and openness. Stakeholders must provide truthful information, communicate honestly, and protect confidential and sensitive data. Financial reporting, operational updates, and disclosures must be complete and dependable.

Stakeholders must not misuse their position or influence by attempting to bypass established policies and procedures, improperly influencing decisions, or demanding preferential treatment.

Conflict of Interest

We avoid any appearance or reality of self-dealing, ensuring organizational decisions are objective, not influenced by personal gain, and potential conflicts are fully disclosed.

Stakeholders must demonstrate lawful, ethical conduct and a commitment to advancing Rutgers University’s mission. Improper financial practices, bribery, fraud, corruption, or misuse of influence are inconsistent with the State University of New Jersey CODE OF ETHICS: GENERAL CONDUCT and the Rutgers University Foundation Stakeholders Code of Conduct. Responsible business practices and thoughtful consideration of broader social impact are expected in all engagements connected to Foundation work.

Protecting Rutgers University

Reporting and Speaking Up

Our actions, whether with university colleagues, students, alumni, or the public, must never compromise the integrity or reputation of the university we serve.

Stakeholders must promptly notify a Rutgers University Foundation-designated representative or leadership of circumstances that could affect the Foundation’s operations, compliance obligations, financial stewardship, information security, service continuity, or the University’s reputation. This includes suspected violations of applicable standards, policies, laws, or regulations.

Early disclosure enables responsible action, mitigates risk, and protects the integrity of Rutgers University Foundation and Rutgers University. The Foundation will promptly investigate all reports and disclose concerns only to those who have a need to know.