Employees of Cornell University are expected to act in the best interest of Cornell in performing their job duties. A conflict of interest can result in compromising your ability to remain unbiased in your thoughts, ideas, and decisions on behalf of Cornell.  In addition, non-disclosure of a potential conflict may result in questions of your intentions, reduce trust, and possibly cause additional steps to be taken. An individual is considered to have a Conflict of Interest when they, a member of their family, or a known business associate either:

• has an existing or potential significant financial interest or other material interest or relationship that impairs or might appear to impair the individual's independence and objectivity in the discharge of their responsibilities to the university; or

• may receive a financial or other material benefit from information confidential to the university. Typically, a Conflict of Interest may arise when an individual has the opportunity or perceived opportunity to influence the university's business, administrative, academic, or other decisions in a manner implicating personal gain or competitive advantage of any kind.

Examples:

• Self-dealing: acting in one's own best interest in a transaction at the expense of Cornell.
• Nepotism: favoring family members or friends over more qualified candidates or vendors.
• Excess compensation: receiving excessive or unjustified rewards for one's position or influence.
• External employment: working for another related business, college or university without proper disclosure or approval.
• Gifts: accepting or giving gifts that may influence one's decisions or actions (example: gifts from vendors or contractors exceeding $75 in value)

A conflict of commitment arises when an individual undertakes external commitments that may burden or interfere with their primary obligations and commitments to Cornell (e.g., management, outside employment, advisory, or consulting role). The university expects that individuals will take appropriate steps to prevent external activities and commitments from having an adverse impact on the performance of their university duties and obligations.

Cornell University Policies:

• University Policy 4.14 Conflicts of Interest and Commitment (Excluding Financial Conflict of Interest Related to Research)
• University Policy 4.19 Personal and Private Activity Using University Property and Facilities
• University Policy 4.6 Standards of Ethical Conduct
• University Policy 6.14 Avoiding Nepotism

Submit SCL Conflict of Interest Disclosure

Related Resources for Annual Attestation Requirement for all Cornell Employees