Employment of Relatives

The University defines "relatives" as spouses, registered domestic partners, live-in partners, children, siblings, parents, in-laws, cousins, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, step relatives, and any others living in the household. Relatives, partners, those in a dating relationship, or members of the same household are not permitted to be in positions that have a reporting responsibility to each other. The University retains the right to refuse to hire, promote, and/or transfer relatives into the same department, division, or facility if doing so may cause an adverse effect on:

  • Supervision
  • Security and safety
  • Morale
  • Conflicts of interest
  • Improper influence of favor

Employment, Promotion, and Transfers

Prior to employment, promotions, or transfers, employees are responsible for disclosing potential or existing situations concerning employment of a relative to their supervisor and Human Resources. Employees must complete the Employment of Relatives Disclosure Form to disclose relative relationships to their supervisor and Human Resources. Non-disclosure may lead to disqualification and/or ineligibility for employment, promotion, or transfer.

If currently employed employees become relatives, partners, or members of the same household and if they are in the same department and/or if one party is in a supervisory position, they are required to inform their supervisor and Human Resources of the relationship as early as possible by completing the Employment of Relatives Disclosure Form.

Supervisory responsibilities include any of the following:

  • Assessment of performance
  • Reappointment consideration
  • Promotion or salary adjustment
  • Approval of a leave of absence
  • Hiring or termination decisions
  • Directing daily activities

Employment of Relatives Disclosure Form

Employees are responsible for disclosing potential or existing situations concerning employment of a relative to their supervisor and Human Resources. Non-disclosure may lead to disqualification and/or ineligibility for employment, promotion, or transfer. Formal review, approval, and appropriate signatures are required prior to employment, promotion, or transfer of a relative. Employees must request authorization by submitting the completed form as directed.

Download a Disclosure Form