SDSU Research Foundation (SDSURF) is committed to high ethical standards. SDSURF promotes a working environment that values respect, fairness, and integrity. Therefore, all staff and board members are required to act with honesty, integrity, and openness in their dealings as representatives of SDSURF.

Ethical Business Standards or Practices

Those acting on behalf of SDSURF have a general duty to conduct themselves in a manner that will maintain and strengthen the public's trust and confidence in the organization. Employees shall not act in any manner incompatible with their obligation to SDSURF.

With regard to professional conduct, employees have the right and responsibility to:

• Conduct business in adherence with high ethical standards.
• Maintain integrity through an ongoing dedication to honesty and responsibility.
• Act in a professional, reliable and dependable manner.
• Treat others with impartiality.
• Communicate honestly and openly and avoid misrepresentation.
• Exhibit respect, courtesy and fairness toward others.
• Use organizational resources only for SDSURF purposes.
• Observe and comply with laws and regulations affecting SDSURF and its operations.
• Conduct business in a manner that will avoid potential or actual conflicts of interest. (See Conflict of Interest Policy)
• Respect the value and dignity of all individuals.
• Follow the decisions of management. Staff are encouraged to express their positions and management may incorporate some, none or all of staff's recommendations. Management is to demonstrate leadership in applying ethical business practices.
• Refrain from doing anything at work that might bring discredit to SDSURF and the department/project/agency.
• Treat SDSURF's property, information and other resources responsibly including maintaining confidentiality where appropriate.
• Carefully consider the public perception of his/her personal and professional actions, the effect his/her actions could have the reputation of SDSURF, its projects/agencies/departments, and San Diego State University.

Ethical Dilemma or Dispute

Employees should seek appropriate guidance when faced with work-related ethical dilemmas. To resolve any ethical or legal issue, or report a violation of this policy, an employee should contact his/her supervisor or manager, the next higher level of management, the Chief Financial Officer or the Chief Human Resources Officer for guidance. An employee can also contact the California whistleblower hotline at (800) 952-5665 to report improper activities of state agencies or employees. SDSURF strongly encourages an "open door" policy with its employees. 

Failure to follow this policy may lead to disciplinary action. For alleged violations of this policy, SDSURF will weigh relevant facts and circumstances in making its determination.

Revised March 2007
Updated 12/15/2009
Updated January 2019
Updated January 2020
Updated March 2023

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