Policy on Endorsements

Title: Policy on Endorsements
Policy Owner: University Communications
Applies to: Faculty, Staff, Students, Others
Campus Applicability: All Campuses
Effective Date:  September 1, 2016
For More Information, Contact University Communications
Contact Information: (860) 486-3530
Official Website: http://communications.uconn.edu/

The University of Connecticut is committed to achieving excellence in research, graduate and undergraduate education, teaching and engagement.  The University has attracted national and international recognition for many successes across a wide range of disciplines.  As the University continues to grow and build on its many successes, members of the UConn community and external entities will continue to seek to associate themselves with UConn.

As Connecticut’s flagship public university, the University must ensure that it associates itself with individuals, groups and organizations who share its values.  All units and employees of the University are responsible for ensuring that the University’s reputation and image are not affected by an improper external affiliation.

The University’s Bylaws prohibit units and groups within the University, including at UConn Health and regional campuses, clinics, and centers, from authorizing any individual, group or organization that is not affiliated with the University to use the name of the University without the approval of the President or the President’s designee. Typically requests to use the name of the University come from businesses wishing to promote the nature of their business relationship with the University or from individuals, groups or organizations wishing to be recognized as a sponsor of the University or any of its activities.

This requirement also applies to UConn employees and units at all locations. No employee or unit may endorse or promote a third-party business interest in the public domain in connection with their employment or service to the University without approval. This requirement includes providing quotes to or participating in interviews with a third-party about its product or service that would be used publicly.

If you receive this type of request, or anything similar, you are required to notify University Communications for review.

POLICY HISTORY

Original Approval: February 3, 2016
Effective Date: September 1, 2016
Revision Approved by the President’s Cabinet: April 5, 2019