3.7 Standards of Conduct

Policy Contact: Office of Human Resources

Related Policies: 5.4 Problem Resolution Procedure, 5.5 Disciplinary Guidelines

Policy Update Date: May 20, 2025

3.7 Standards of Conduct

Employees are expected to maintain standards of professional conduct that reflect the values and mission of the College. These standards promote a positive work environment, ensure operational efficiency, and uphold our commitment to students and the community. The follow sections outline expectations for attendance, appearance, and responsible use of college resources.

3.7.1 Attendance and Punctuality

If an employee is unable to report to work or is going to be late, the employee must inform the supervisor prior to the start of the scheduled work period.

Faculty who are unable to meet a scheduled class or are going to be late must contact the department chair.

Tardiness and absenteeism affect the smooth functioning of the department and reduce the employee’s value to the College. Attendance and punctuality are important performance factors and will be considered in appraising performance. Unauthorized or excessive absenteeism or tardiness may lead to appropriate disciplinary actions, including termination. Supervisors who believe that an employee’s attendance issues may be related to a medical condition should consult with the Office of Human Resources before taking disciplinary action, to ensure compliance with applicable laws and policies.

In the event a staff member is absent for three consecutive workdays without notifying the supervisor, the supervisor should contact the Office of Human Resources. In this situation, the employee will be terminated unless the employee is able to show that extenuating circumstances made notification impossible. A letter will be sent to the employee to confirm the termination.

3.7.2 Standard of Appearance

Employees should be neatly and appropriately groomed and attired. The supervisor should ask each employee to use the employee’s own good judgment to ensure that dress and personal grooming are neither extreme nor inappropriate. This includes maintaining a standard of personal hygiene that does not create a distraction or discomfort to others in the workplace. Supervisors should remind employees that they represent the College to our many visitors as well as to co-workers and students. If appropriate standards are not met, it is the supervisor/department chair’s responsibility to discuss this with the employee. If a position requires a special uniform, it is the responsibility of the supervisor to provide details to each employee who is required to wear a uniform; new or revised requirements must be approved by the appropriate vice-president and must be on record with the Office of Human Resources.

3.7.3 Use and Disposal of College Property

College property—including facilities, vehicles, equipment, supplies, and digital resources—is provided for business use in support of the College's mission. Unauthorized personal use of College property, whether during or outside of working hours, is considered misuse and may result in disciplinary action.

Use of College-issued devices (e.g., laptops, mobile phones) and access to digital resources must adhere to the All College Computer and Network Use Policy.

Remote Work and Off-Campus Use:
Employees approved for remote or hybrid work must ensure the secure and appropriate use of College equipment and information. College-owned property must be returned upon separation or at any time by request of the College.

Data and Information Security:
Employees are responsible for safeguarding confidential, sensitive, or proprietary information, in both physical and digital formats. Unauthorized access, sharing, or disposal of such information is strictly prohibited.

Disposal and Recycling:
The disposal or repurposing of College-owned property must comply with College policies and be conducted only by authorized personnel. Equipment must be properly sanitized of all data and recycled in accordance with environmental guidelines.

Last Updated: May 2025