Volunteer Code of Conduct

An alumni network is, by its very definition, a representative of Ohio University to its community. While alumni and friends understand the reputation and long traditions of OHIO, those not connected with the University may only have the alumni networks on which to base their opinions. It is always important for all networks to put the University’s best foot forward, particularly as ambassadors for Ohio University. All network volunteers must review the OUAA Volunteer Code of Conduct with the Network Representative annually as part of re-certification.  

Ohio University and its Alumni Association expect all volunteers to understand they are a reflection of the University, and as such, you are expected to represent Ohio University and the OUAA in a manner that does not jeopardize the reputation, integrity, or mission of the institution. This Code of Conduct must be followed by all volunteers within an alumni network.  

As a Volunteer I will:  

• Represent Ohio University and the Ohio University Alumni Association, with professionalism, dignity, and pride and be responsible for conducting myself with courtesy and appropriate behavior. 
• Enhance the relationship among alumni, students, parents, and the University through meaningful programming. 
• Identify myself as an alumni volunteer, not as an employee or official representative of the University, when engaging with third parties, including venues, other universities, companies, etc., and to direct questions that are beyond my expertise to the OUAA. 
• Display respect and courtesy for employees, other volunteers, other alumni and friends of the University, event participants, opposing universities alumni and friends, and property. 
• Keep personal opinions and actions separate from those made as a representative of the University and the Ohio University Alumni Association. 
• Safeguard all sensitive, confidential or proprietary information, including alumni information and payment information, at all times. 
• Familiarize myself with and adhere to the guidelines and policies of Ohio University, the Ohio University Foundation, and OUAA.
• Any Alumni Networks must work with the OUAA and the Office of Annual Giving - utilizing Foundation systems, processes, and policies - to solicit and collect charitable gifts.
• Follow through and complete accepted tasks on behalf of the alumni network. 
• Seek training for my volunteer role by participating in meetings, self-study, or other training opportunities available through the OUAA. 
• Keep OUAA staff informed of progress, concerns, and problems within the program(s) in which I participate. Avoid conduct which would jeopardize the effectiveness of the alumni network and the Alumni Association 
• Practice responsible alcohol consumption at network, University, and Alumni Association events.
• Make every effort for all actions of self and fellow network volunteers to be within the guidelines and policies of the Ohio University Alumni Association, The Ohio University Foundation, and Ohio University. 

As a volunteer I will not: 

• Be under the influence of illegal drugs at network or Ohio University Alumni Association-sponsored events. 
• Use vulgar or inappropriate language while representing the University in my capacity as a volunteer. 
• Hold events at inappropriate venues or venues that do not uphold the integrity of the University or the Alumni Association.  
• Hold OUAA Sanctioned events without prior notification to the Ohio University Alumni Association. 
• Post inappropriate pictures and/or comments on group or university websites, in emails, or on social networks, including those created and/or maintained by the network. 
• Discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or veteran status. 
• Obtain or maintain any types of lists containing alumni contact information  
• Use alumni information for soliciting or marketing personal products or services 

Please note that the OUAA reserves the right to release a volunteer, at any time, who does not adhere to the above guidelines. Similarly, volunteers may relinquish their role at any time if they feel they can no longer align themselves with the mission and expectations of OUAA or their alumni network. Notice of such decisions should be communicated in writing as soon as possible. 

Further, the OUAA reserves the right to amend this Code of Conduct at any time.