Neutrality Statement Policy

Objective #

The mission of University of Tennessee Foundation, Inc. (UTFI) is to raise financial, public and political support for the University of Tennessee System. UTFI is committed to refrain from taking a public position on issues not directly affecting the core mission in support of the University of Tennessee (University).

Policy #

UTFI shall exercise the position of neutrality and refrain from making public statements on disputed political, moral, and religious topics, except where appropriate to address an issue that impacts materially and directly on the core mission. The role of UTFI is to provide an impartial platform exhibiting no collective position.

A position of neutrality is not intended to limit the speech of the UTFI employees acting or speaking as individuals in their own names and not in the name of the UTFI. Rather, neutrality allows for a true arena of ideas in which staff have the broadest possible latitude to discuss, debate, learn and listen to any issue. As with all communications, it is expected to be professional, respectful, responsible, accurate, and clear that as an employee does not speak on behalf of UTFI.

Scope and Application #

This policy applies to all UTFI employees. Employees are expected to familiarize themselves with the requirements of this policy and abide by it. Regardless of an employee’s role, their position on a topic should clearly indicate their position is not on behalf of UTFI. Refer to TM0001 Code of Conduct and TM0022 Social Media Policy.

Penalties/Disciplinary Action for Non-Compliance #

Violations of the neutrality policy may be cause for disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.