Conflicts of Interest

Administrative Procedure 3.803

Employees of Elgin Community College are obligated to avoid real or potential conflicts of interest. 

An actual or potential conflict of interest exists when an employee is in a position to influence a decision or is conducting business on behalf of ECC that might result in personal gain for the employee or one of his or her relatives. For conflicts of interest, a relative is any person who is related to the employee by blood or marriage, or whose relationship with the employee is similar to being a relative even though they are not related by blood or marriage. Employees who are uncertain as to whether a conflict of interest exists should contact the Managing Director of Human Resources. 

The College does not automatically assume that there is a conflict of interest when an employee has a relationship with an outside company or organization that does business with ECC. However, if the employee has the ability to influence transactions involving purchases, contracts, or leases from the company, the employee must inform a member of the President's Cabinet about the relationship as soon as possible. By doing this, the College can establish safeguards to prevent a conflict of interest from occurring and protect everyone involved. 

The possibility for personal gain is not limited to situations where an employee or relative has a significant business relationship with a firm that does business with ECC. Personal gains can also result when the employee or relative receives, including but not limited to, a kickback, bribe, substantial gift, or special consideration as a result of a transaction or business dealing involving ECC.

This policy was last reviewed on 05/17/2024.