Author: Fearney, Kimberly

Non-Discrimination Policy Statements for Publications, including Accessibility Statements for University Events and Section 1557 Statements for Health Programs

Title: Non-Discrimination Policy Statements for Publications, including Accessibility Statements for University Events and Section 1557 Statements for Health Programs
Policy Owner: Office of Institutional Equity
Applies to: All University Publications
Campus Applicability:  All Campuses, including Regional Campuses and UConn Health
Effective Date: June 13, 2017
For More Information, Contact Office of Institutional Equity
Contact Information: (860) 486-2943 (Storrs and Regionals)
(860) 679-3563 (UConn Health)
Email: equity@uconn.edu
Official Website: http://www.equity.uconn.edu/

Click here to view a PDF, Printer Friendly copy of this policy.

Purpose

All University publications describing or inviting participation in UConn programs or activities must contain one of the non-discrimination statements set forth below. The inclusion of the non-discrimination statement is required by federal regulations and is designed to make clear to current and future participants, beneficiaries, enrollees, applicants, patients, visitors and members of the public the University’s commitment to equal opportunity and access to its programs, activities, and health programs.

The term “publications” includes, but is not limited to, printed, electronic or online materials or documents. With the understanding that publications are produced in different formats and sizes, including printed and electronic, the University has developed two forms of the non-discrimination statements: long and short. The selected form of the non-discrimination statement is generally dependent on the availability of space.

Effort should be given to publish the long form to the maximum extent feasible. When options to provide the long form have been exhausted, the short form may be considered.

The non-discrimination statement is embedded within the footer of all University website pages, therefore a non-discrimination statement is not required on individual departmental website pages.

Any questions related to the University’s non-discrimination, AA/EEO policies, and reasonable accommodations process may be directed to the Office of Institutional Equity at (860) 486-2943 or equity@uconn.edu.

________________________________________________________________________

General University Communications

Long Form

Required for books, booklets, brochures, catalogs, directories, and similar documents or publications that offer more flexibility in the use of space.

The University of Connecticut complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action, including the provision of reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. UConn does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religious creed, age, sex, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran status, prior conviction of a crime, workplace hazards to reproductive systems, gender identity or expression, or political beliefs in its programs and activities.  Employees, students, visitors, and applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations to address limitations resulting from a disability. For questions or more information, please contact the Associate Vice President, Office of Institutional Equity, 241 Glenbrook Road, Unit 4175, Storrs, CT 06269-4175; Phone: (860) 486-2943; Email: equity@uconn.edu / Website: http://www.equity.uconn.edu.

Short Form

Required for publications with significant space limitations such as pamphlets, postcards, advertisements and one-page announcements (flyers and posters).

UConn complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination, equal opportunity, affirmative action, and providing reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.  Contact: Office of Institutional Equity; (860) 486-2943; equity@uconn.edu; http://www.equity.uconn.edu.

_________________________________________________________________________

Event Accessibility Statement

General Information

The following statement is intended for event-specific publications for the purposes of ensuring an opportunity for participants with disabilities to request accommodations and fully participate in the event or activity.

The event accessibility statement is required for all publications that describe or invite participation in a University-sponsored event or activity, whether the publication is dispersed via print or electronic means, published on the Internet, or advertised using social media. Event materials should include both the non-discrimination statement and the event accessibility statement.

For further information regarding policies and procedures for disability-related accommodations at University events, refer to the Center for Students with Disabilities Accessibility Checklist for Events at http://uconn.edu/accessibility-checklist-for-events/.

Event Accessibility Statement

Required for all University-sponsored events.

If you require an accommodation to participate in this event, please contact (INSERT SPONSORING DEPARTMENT CONTACT NAME) at (INSERT TELEPHONE AND EMAIL CONTACT INFORMATION) by (SPECIFIC DATE (suggestion: at least 5 days in advance)).

_________________________________________________________________________

Health Program or Activity Communications (Patient-Facing)

General Information

This section applies only to those University units that meet the definition of “covered entity” as defined in Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act and their communications specific to patients or anticipated patients (i.e. communications aimed at members of the public advertising patient-related programs, services or activities). These requirements are specific to the following:

  • UConn Health – John Dempsey Hospital (JDH), UConn Medical Group (UMG), School of Dental Medicine Outpatient Clinics and all other UConn Health patient-related clinics and services;
  • UConn Student Health Services (Storrs campus);
  • UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic; and
  • UConn Fire Department.

Publications and communications of health programs or activities subject to Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (covered entities) must include one of the non-discrimination statements set forth below.  The inclusion of the non-discrimination statement is specifically required by Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act and is designed to advance health equity and reduce health care disparities.

University units subject to Section 1557 must determine, within reason, which of their communications and publications are “significant” in the context of their health programs and activities. Examples of publications and communications considered to be “significant” include applications to participate in, or receive benefits or services from, a covered entity’s health program or activity, as well as written correspondence related to an individual’s rights, benefits, or services, including correspondence requiring a response.  Effort must primarily be given to publish the long version as stated below.

Additional guidance and information regarding Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act is available at https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/for-individuals/faqs/index.html.

_________________________________________________________________________

Health Program or Activity Long Form (UConn Health)

Required for significant publications and communications targeted to beneficiaries, enrollees, applicants, and members of the public which may include patient handbooks, outreach publications, or written notices pertaining to rights or benefits or requiring a response from an individual.

UConn Health complies with all applicable federal laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. UConn Health does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

UConn Health:

  • Provides free aids and services to people with disabilities to communicate effectively with us, such as qualified sign language interpreters and/or written information in other formats (large print, audio, accessible electronic formats); and,
  • Provides free language services to people whose primary language is not English, such as qualified interpreters and/or information written in other languages.

If you need these services, contact 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

If you believe that UConn Health failed to provide the above-described services or subjected you to discrimination, please contact Sarah Chipman, Interim Associate Vice President, Office of Institutional Equity, 16 Munson Road, MC 5310, Farmington, CT 06030-5310; Phone: (860) 679-3563; Email: equity@uconn.edu; Website: http://www.equity.uconn.edu You can file a grievance in person or by mail, phone or email.  If you need help filing a grievance, the Office of Institutional Equity is available to help you. Call 860-679-3563.

You also can file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/portal/lobby.jsf, or by mail or phone at:  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Avenue, SW, Room 509F, HHH Building, Washington, D.C. 20201;
1-800-868-1019, 800-537-7697 (TDD).  Complaint forms are available at https://www.hhs.gov/civil-rights/filing-a-complaint/index.html 

(Spanish) ATENCIÓN:  si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.  Llame al 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Polish) UWAGA:  Jeżeli mówisz po polsku, możesz skorzystać z bezpłatnej pomocy językowej.  Zadzwoń pod numer 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Portuguese) ATENÇÃO:  Se fala português, encontram-se disponíveis serviços linguísticos, grátis.  Ligue para 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Italian) ATTENZIONE:  In caso la lingua parlata sia l’italiano, sono disponibili servizi di assistenza linguistica gratuiti.  Chiamare il numero 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(French) ATTENTION:  Si vous parlez français, des services d’aide linguistique vous sont proposés gratuitement.  Appelez le 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Chinese) 注意:如果您使用繁體中文,您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(French Creole) ATANSYON:  Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou.  Rele 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(German) ACHTUNG: Wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen, stehen Ihnen kostenlos sprachliche Hilfsdienstleistungen zur Verfügung.  Rufnummer: 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Hindi) ध्यान दें:  यदि आप हिंदी बोलते हैं तो आपके लिए मुफ्त में भाषा सहायता सेवाएं उपलब्ध हैं। 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134) पर कॉल करें।

(Russian) ВНИМАНИЕ:  Если вы говорите на русском языке, то вам доступны бесплатные услуги перевода.  Звоните 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Arabic) ملحوظة:  إذا كنت تتحدث اذكر اللغة، فإن خدمات المساعدة اللغوية تتوافر لك بالمجان.  اتصل برقم 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Greek) ΠΡΟΣΟΧΗ: Αν μιλάτε ελληνικά, στη διάθεσή σας βρίσκονται υπηρεσίες γλωσσικής υποστήριξης, οι οποίες παρέχονται δωρεάν. Καλέστε 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Tagalog) PAUNAWA: Kung nagsasalita ka ng Tagalog, maaari kang gumamit ng mga serbisyo ng tulong sa wika nang walang bayad. Tumawag sa 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Vietnamese) CHÚ Ý:  Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn.  Gọi số 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Albanian) KUJDES:  Nëse flitni shqip, për ju ka në dispozicion shërbime të asistencës gjuhësore, pa pagesë.  Telefononi në 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Korean) 주의: 한국어를 사용하시는 경우, 언어 지원 서비스를 무료로 이용하실 수 있습니다. 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134)번으로 전화해 주십시오.

Health Program or Activity Short Form (UConn Health)

Required for postcards, tri-fold brochures, and pamphlets and other significant publications that are small-size, or where the long form is not feasible, targeted to beneficiaries, enrollees, applicants, and members of the public.

UConn Health complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

(Spanish) ATENCIÓN:  si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.  Llame al 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

(Polish) UWAGA:  Jeżeli mówisz po polsku, możesz skorzystać z bezpłatnej pomocy językowej.  Zadzwoń pod numer 860-679-2626 (TTY: 1-800-833-8134).

_________________________________________________________________________

Health Program or Activity Long Form (Storrs: UConn Student Health Services, UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic, UConn Fire Department)

Required for significant publications and communications targeted to beneficiaries, enrollees, applicants, and members of the public, which may include patient handbooks, outreach publications, or written notices pertaining to rights or benefits or requiring a response from an individual.

(UConn Student Health Services / UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic / UConn Fire Department) complies with all applicable federal laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. (UConn Student Health Services / UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic / UConn Fire Department) does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

(UConn Student Health Services / UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic / UConn Fire Department):

  • Provides free aids and services to people with disabilities to communicate effectively with us, such as qualified sign language interpreters and/or written information in other formats (large print, audio, accessible electronic formats); and,
  • Provides free language services to people whose primary language is not English, such as qualified interpreters and/or information written in other languages.

If you need these services, contact (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

If you believe that (UConn Student Health Services / UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic / UConn Fire Department) failed to provide the above-described services or subjected you to discrimination, please contact Sarah Chipman, Interim Associate Vice President, Office of Institutional Equity, 241 Glenbrook Road, Unit 4175, Storrs, CT 06269-4175; Phone: (860) 486-2943; Phone: (860) 679-3563; Email: equity@uconn.edu; Website: http://www.equity.uconn.edu. You can file a grievance in person or by mail, phone or email.  If you need help filing a grievance, the Office of Institutional Equity is available to help you. Call 860-486-2943.

You also can file a civil rights complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office for Civil Rights, electronically through the Office for Civil Rights Complaint Portal, available at https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/portal/lobby.jsf, or by mail or phone at:  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 200 Independence Avenue, SW, Room 509F, HHH Building, Washington, D.C. 20201;
1-800-868-1019, 800-537-7697 (TDD).  Complaint forms are available at http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/office/file/index.html.

(Spanish) ATENCIÓN:  si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.  Llame al (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Polish) UWAGA:  Jeżeli mówisz po polsku, możesz skorzystać z bezpłatnej pomocy językowej.  Zadzwoń pod numer (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Portuguese) ATENÇÃO:  Se fala português, encontram-se disponíveis serviços linguísticos, grátis.  Ligue para 860-679-2626 (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Italian) ATTENZIONE:  In caso la lingua parlata sia l’italiano, sono disponibili servizi di assistenza linguistica gratuiti.  Chiamare il numero (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(French) ATTENTION :  Si vous parlez français, des services d’aide linguistique vous sont proposés gratuitement.  Appelez le (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Chinese) 注意:如果您使用繁體中文,您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(French Creole) ATANSYON:  Si w pale Kreyòl Ayisyen, gen sèvis èd pou lang ki disponib gratis pou ou.  Rele (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(German) ACHTUNG:  Wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen, stehen Ihnen kostenlos sprachliche Hilfsdienstleistungen zur Verfügung.  Rufnummer: (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Hindi) ध्यान दें:  यदि आप हिंदी बोलते हैं तो आपके लिए मुफ्त में भाषा सहायता सेवाएं उपलब्ध हैं। (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925 पर कॉल करें।

(Russian) ВНИМАНИЕ:  Если вы говорите на русском языке, то вам доступны бесплатные услуги перевода.  Звоните (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Arabic) ملحوظة:   إذا كنت تتحدث اذكر اللغة، فإن خدمات المساعدة اللغوية تتوافر لك بالمجان.  اتصل برقم (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Greek) ΠΡΟΣΟΧΗ: Αν μιλάτε ελληνικά, στη διάθεσή σας βρίσκονται υπηρεσίες γλωσσικής υποστήριξης, οι οποίες παρέχονται δωρεάν. Καλέστε (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Tagalog) PAUNAWA: Kung nagsasalita ka ng Tagalog, maaari kang gumamit ng mga serbisyo ng tulong sa wika nang walang bayad. Tumawag sa (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Vietnamese) CHÚ Ý:  Nếu bạn nói Tiếng Việt, có các dịch vụ hỗ trợ ngôn ngữ miễn phí dành cho bạn.  Gọi số (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Albanian) KUJDES:  Nëse flitni shqip, për ju ka në dispozicion shërbime të asistencës gjuhësore, pa pagesë.  Telefononi në (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Korean) 주의: 한국어를 사용하시는 경우, 언어 지원 서비스를 무료로 이용하실 수 있습니다. (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925 번으로 전화해 주십시오.

Health Program or Activity Short Form (Storrs: UConn Student Health Services, UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic, UConn Fire Department)

Required for postcards, tri-fold brochures, and pamphlets and other significant publications that are small-size, or where the long form is not feasible, targeted to beneficiaries, enrollees, applicants, and members of the public.

(UConn Student Health Services / UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic / UConn Fire Department) complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

(Spanish) ATENCIÓN:  si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística.  Llame al (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925.

(Polish) UWAGA:  Jeżeli mówisz po polsku, możesz skorzystać z bezpłatnej pomocy językowej.  Zadzwoń pod numer (UConn Student Health Services) 860-486-4700 / (UConn Speech and Hearing Clinic) 860-486-2629 / (UConn Fire Department) 860-486-4925

Full-Time and Part-Time Registration

Title: Full-Time and Part-Time Registration
Policy Owner: University Senate
Applies to: Students
Campus Applicability: Storrs and Regional Campuses
Effective Date: November 1, 2002
For More Information, Contact Office of the Registrar
Contact Information: (860) 486-3331
Official Website: http://registrar.uconn.edu/

Full-time students are those who register for at least 12 credits and continue to carry at least 12 credits through the end of the semester.

Courses with restricted credits (see Credit Restrictions) have all credits counted in computing the Semester Credit Load, but only unrestricted credits count toward the degree. Unresolved marks from a previous semester and/or courses currently being audited are not counted in computing the Semester Credit Load.

Part-time students are those enrolled for fewer than 12 credits. Enrolling for fewer than 12 credits requires the written approval of the student?s academic dean. Part-time students must have the permission of the Dean of Students to participate in any extra-curricular activity involving intercollegiate competition. Students considering taking fewer than 12 credits should consult their advisor and read carefully the rules governing scholastic probation and dismissal, financial aid and housing. They also should ask if their part-time status will affect their social security, insurance or other related matters.  Please contact the Registrar’s Office at 486-3331 with any questions.

See By-Laws, Rules, and Regulations of the University Senate II.B5.

Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Title: Family & Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Policy Owner: Human Resources
Applies to: Faculty, Staff
Campus Applicability: Statewide Policy
Effective Date: July 7, 2009
For More Information, Contact Department of Human Resources
Contact Information: (860) 486-3034
Official Website: https://hr.uconn.edu/leaves-of-absence/

 

The University adheres to the statewide Family and Medical Leave Policy through the Department of  Administrative Services:

Statewide Family and Medical Leave Policy: FMLA Statewide Policy (PDF)

For more information, visit the FMLA website:  UConn HR FMLA

Athletics Employee Handbook

Title: Athletics Employee Handbook
Policy Owner: Division of Athletics
Applies to: Athletics Staff
Campus Applicability:  Storrs
Effective Date: August 2016
For More Information, Contact Division of Athletics
Contact Information: (860) 486-2725
Official Website: http://www.uconnhuskies.com/

 

The Division of Athletics Employee Handbook is currently being revised. Please check back soon for updates. Any questions pertaining to the handbook may be directed to Cheryl Bertora at (860) 486-2725 or Dan Gilinski at (860) 486-2050.

Administrative Review and Approval of Proposals for External Support

Title: Administrative Review and Approval of Proposals for External Support
Policy Owner: Office of the Vice President for Research, Sponsored Program Services
Applies to: Principal Investigators and all others involved in the submission of a sponsored program proposal
Campus Applicability:  All campuses except for UConn Health
Effective Date: June 24, 2015
For More Information, Contact Sponsored Program Services
Contact Information: (860) 486-3622
Official Website: http://research.uconn.edu

PURPOSE

The timely submission of proposals for internal UConn review and approval allows for thoughtful consideration and review of sponsored project proposals for compliance with University, Federal, State and sponsor policies.  Additionally, Sponsored Program Services professionals review proposals against the administrative requirements of the sponsor’s announcement, including budgets and budget justifications to identify potential administrative or financial challenges to the success of the proposal.

POLICY

All proposal submissions seeking external support for research and other sponsored projects must be submitted to the Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) Sponsored Program Services (SPS) for review and approval prior to submission to an external sponsor, even when institutional sign-off is not required by the sponsor.

All letters-of-intent and pre-proposal submissions seeking external support for research and other sponsored projects must be submitted to Sponsored Program Services for review and approval prior to submission to an external sponsor if the signature of an authorized official, a detailed budget, or cost share commitment is required.

Proposals submitted without SPS approval may be administratively withdrawn or the offer of funding (award) may not be accepted if the submission is found to be non-compliant with University, Federal, State or sponsor policies.

SPS requests a minimum of five (5) business days prior to the agency or submission deadline for review and approval of the full proposal, internal forms and budget.

The University of Connecticut reserves the right to withdraw any proposal or refuse acceptance of any award that does not comply with this policy.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Director of Sponsored Programs and Faculty Services has overall responsibility for this policy.

The Principal Investigator accepts the responsibility for the timely submission of all proposals and pre-proposals that require SPS approval to SPS.

The Department Head, Center Director and/or Dean attests to the academic purposes of the proposed project and its appropriateness in terms of budget, committed effort, space and equipment.

The Director of Sponsored Programs and Faculty Services is the authorized signatory for all proposals for sponsored programs. In the absence of the designated official, arrangements are made to ensure timely signing by alternate University signatories.

Principal Investigators, Department Heads, Deans and other individuals as required are responsible for authorizing and signing internal processing documents, but are not authorized to sign a sponsored projects proposal as the institutional official on behalf of the University.

PROCEDURE/FORMS

See OVPR SPS website: Proposal Preparation & Submission Overview

ENFORCEMENT

Violations of this policy may result in appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with University Laws and By-Laws, General Rules of Conduct for All University Employees, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and the University of Connecticut Student Code.

POLICY HISTORY

Policy created:  6/12/2008

Revised:           6/24/2015 (approved by the Vice President for Research)

 

Use of the Social Security Number at the University of Connecticut, Policy on

Title: Use of the Social Security Number, Policy on
Policy Owner: Information Technology Services / Chief Information Security Officer
Applies to: Faculty, Staff, Students
Campus Applicability: All campuses except UConn Health 
Effective Date: August 30, 2021
For More Information, Contact Director of IT Security, Policy and Quality Assurance
Contact Information: techsupport@uconn.edu or security@uconn.edu 
Official Website: https://security.uconn.edu

PURPOSE 

To protect the confidentiality and privacy of students and employees of the University of Connecticut regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of Social Security numbers. Social Security numbers have been used to uniquely identify students and employees in various University systems. As systems are updated and replaced, the reliance on Social Security numbers should be used only as required. 

APPLIES TO 

This policy applies to all University faculty, staff, students, student employees, volunteers, and contractors who have access to or have been assigned one of the roles defined in this policy. 

POLICY STATEMENT  

In order to protect the Social Security number of its students, staff, faculty and affiliates, the University of Connecticut will: 

  1. Discontinue the collection of Social Security numbers, except where necessary for employment records, financial aid records, and other business and governmental transactions as required by law or to satisfy a business requirement when permitted by law. 
  2. Develop a University of Connecticut identifier to be assigned to all students, faculty, staff and other individuals associated with the University, to uniquely and permanently identify the individual. This identifier will be considered public information and be assigned and distributed to the individual upon initial association with the University. It will be used in all electronic and paper data systems to identify, track and service the individual. 
  3. Ensure that no new systems or technology purchased or developed by the University of Connecticut  use the Social Security number as its primary key to the database, except where required by law. Any exemption to this policy must be approved by the Office of University Compliance. 
  4. Ensure that new systems or technologies purchased or developed by the University of Connecticut will use Social Security numbers as data elements only (not as keys to databases) when required by law or business necessity. Approval by the Council of Data Stewards is required for inclusion of the Social Security number in databases. 
  5. Ensure that all requests, either verbal or written, for which faculty, staff or students are required to provide their Social Security number contain or have appended to them a statement explaining the University’s request (i.e., the legal obligation on which the request is based, if there is one, and how the Social Security Number will be used).  
  6. Ensure that all requests, either verbal or written, for which faculty, staff or students are requested to voluntarily provide their Social Security number contain or have appended to them a statement explaining the University request and its purpose. The statement must indicate that no service or privilege will be withheld upon failure to provide the Social Security number and that the person may use the identifier provided by the University of Connecticut in place of the Social Security number. 
  7. Ensure that any request for any form or document that contains the Social Security number, where the Social Security number is not the primary reason for the request, be accompanied by a statement indicating that the Social Security number is not required and should be blanked out on the form or document prior to being provided. 
  8. Ensure that no new systems purchased or developed by the University of Connecticut display Social Security number visually, whether on computer monitors or on printed forms or other output, unless required by law. 
  9. Access to Social Security numbers in online systems must be restricted as appropriate and visible only for required or approved uses. 

ENFORCEMENT 

Violations of this policy may result in appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with University By-Laws, General Rules of Conduct for All University Employees, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and the Student Code.  

Questions about this policy or suspected violations may be reported to any of the following: 

Office of University Compliance:  https://compliance.uconn.edu (860-486-2530) 

Information Technology Services Tech Support:   https://techsupport.uconn.edu (860-486-4357) 

Information Security Officehttps://security.uconn.edu 

POLICY HISTORY 

Policy created: 08/2008   

Revisions: August 30, 2021  [Approved by President’s Senior Team]

Use of Official Email Lists

Title: Use of Official Email Lists
Policy Owner: Information Technology Services
Applies to: Faculty, Staff, Students
Campus Applicability:  Storrs and Regionals
Effective Date: December 15, 2008
For More Information, Contact Information Technology Services
Contact Information: (860) 486-4357
Official Website: https://its.uconn.edu/

 

Background and Reasons for the Policy: In January 2001, as part of the University’s ongoing activities to improve communication and leverage its investment in technology, University ITS created Official Email Lists to help the University conduct its business with targeted audiences. In order to ensure that faculty, staff and students would not be inundated with mass e-mailings, oversight procedures were put in place to monitor the email messages being sent via the official email lists.

Purpose of Policy: The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the Official Email Lists are used in a manner consistent with the Electronic Communication policy and that email users are aware of the types of official lists available, the criteria to be used when communicating via the official lists, and the procedures for using the official lists.

Expected Institutional Outcome: It is expected that this policy will insure proper use of Official Email Lists and reduce costs and improve efficiency of information exchange with our students and employees.

Applicability of Policy: This policy applies to all members of the University community.

Definitions:

Official Email Lists: Official Email Lists are involuntary, closed membership, moderated lists created by University ITS. These lists are intended to provide a method for addressing official University announcements to targeted populations of students (undergraduate and graduate), faculty, employees, at Storrs, Regional campuses, School of Social Work and Law School via their officially assigned University of Connecticut email address (Personal name). These lists are not intended as discussion (“open forum”) lists.

Subscription to these lists is based on information in either the Student database or the Human Resources database. These lists are refreshed automatically on a regular basis to ensure that membership remains current.

List Moderator: List Moderator is an individual whose job it is to approve or reject messages sent to a moderated list.

Policy Statement: Official Email Lists are available for use by any University unit (department, office, center, etc.) or recognized University organization for the purpose of sending messages that pertain to university work or typical university information such as

  • Normal everyday work activities of the University
  • Messages concerning emergency, health and safety announcements
  • Messages pertaining to matters of university-wide policy
  • Messages of a timely nature having direct impact on large numbers of one or all of the following groups: University faculty, staff and students.

Messages sent to any of the Official Email Lists must emanate from within the UConn domain and be created by an individual with appropriate responsibility to the topic.

Messages submitted for transmission to any of the Official Email Lists will be reviewed for adherence to the criteria for that list by one of the list moderators designated by the Chief Information Officer. To be accepted for posting, messages should adhere to the General Formatting Guidelines. Moderators will not approve any message that does not adhere to the guidelines.

Messages sent to any of the Official Email Lists will be archived and made available for 1 year.

Responsibilities:

The Chief Information Officer is responsible for the oversight of these lists. Technical management of the lists resides in University ITS.

Individuals utilizing official email lists are expected to adhere to all applicable Federal and State statutes and University policies, including the University’s Electronic Communication policy, the Electronic Privacy and Disclaimer Notice policy and the University’s Individual Responsibilities with Respect to Appropriate Use of Information Technology Resources policy.

Moderators for the Official Email Lists are responsible for insuring that messages submitted for transmission meet the criteria for the list and adhere to the General Formatting Guidelines.

Enforcement and Review:

This policy will be reviewed on a bi-annual basis.

UConn Web Policy

Title: UConn Web Policy
Policy Owner: Information Technology Services
Applies to: Faculty, Staff, Students
Campus Applicability: All departments at all campuses except UConn Health
Effective Date: February 24, 2009
For More Information, Contact ITS
Contact Information: (860) 486-4357
Official Website: https://its.uconn.edu/

 

Background and Reason for the Policy: The University of Connecticut’s World Wide Web presence is increasingly an important method for communicating with students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents and friends of the University. As the role of the Web expands, it is essential that there be clear guidelines regarding the creation and maintenance of University websites.

Creativity and diversity are important components of an academic community – however, through the establishment of an identity program in 1998, the University of Connecticut has made a significant commitment to its existence and image as “one university.”

Purpose of Policy: The purpose of this policy is to provide clarification of standards, consistent with Federal, State and University laws and policies, for displaying information on any official University website that is accessed or pointed to through the main University website.

Expected Institutional Outcome:Adherence to this policy will result in a University web presence that provides important University information for effectively communicating with varied audiences while providing a consistent University image and remaining in compliance with Federal, State and University laws and policies.

Applicability of Policy: This policy applies to all developers of University of Connecticut web pages

Definitions:

University website: The University website comprises the main University website (www.uconn.edu) and the publicly-accessible homepages and websites of departments, offices, and other units of the University.

Main University website: The main University website is located at www.uconn.edu and is managed by University Communications.

Official University websites: Official University of Connecticut websites are those that have been sponsored by the University of Connecticut, whether they are stored on the University’s central server or on a University distributed server.

Official University webpages: Official University of Connecticut webpages are those that have been created by the University, its campuses, colleges, schools, departments or other administrative units, for University business. Official University webpages clearly convey a relationship to the entire University and support and advance the University’s mission.

Unofficial websites: Websites that are hosted but not sponsored by the University of Connecticut. The University of Connecticut does not endorse, regulate or maintain the contents of these sites, nor does it accept responsibility for the information contained in these websites.

Unofficial webpages: Individual webpages created by faculty, staff, students or student organizations. The University of Connecticut does not endorse, regulate or maintain the contents of these pages, nor does it accept responsibility for the information contained in these webpages.

Please see the links below for policies that complement the University of Connecticut Website Policy:

Electronic Privacy and Disclaimer Notice

Web Site Accessibility

Policy Statement: The rights of academic freedom and freedom of expression apply to the University website. However, all Official University websites must adhere to all applicable Federal and State statutes and University policies, including the University’s Acceptable Use policy.

Per a March, 2007 directive by the President’s Office, all Official University webpages must adhere to University Web Standards developed in collaboration by University Communications and ITS.  These standards, as well as technical resources, are defined at the WebTools website.  In addition, all Official University webpages must clearly convey a relationship to the entire University and adhere to the University Logos and Graphic Standards.

The University Web Standards do not apply to password-protected University web applications.

Responsibilities:

The Chief Information Officer has overall responsibility for this policy.

University Communications is responsible for overseeing the content and design of the main University website and for maintaining and publishing the University Web Standards.

The University’s webmanager in the Office of University Communications is responsible for approving all links to the main University website based upon the linked site’s adherence to this policy.

A department head or equivalent administrator will be considered the “owner” of a unit’s website and will be responsible for the overall function of the information it contains and for the adherence of its website to this policy.

A technical contact (webmaster, webmanager or site administrator) must be appointed by the website owner to maintain the website and its data. This technical contact will be the unit’s website administrator. The functions of the website administrator include:

  • Adhering to University website policies and regulations, along with any additional department policies and procedures;
  • Keeping the website consistently on-line and available to users;
  • Implementing and maintaining the website software and the hardware, if maintaining their own server, including providing security for and integrity of the data; and
  • Staying informed with respect to changes to website policies and University Web Standards.

Deans, directors and department heads may, at their discretion, permit individuals from their unit to display personal home pages through the department’s home page. However, if a personal website is found to be in violation of University or other appropriate policies, regulations or laws, the link from the department’s website may be removed until the issue is addressed.

Enforcement and Review:

The University reserves the right to deny publication or to remove from display any information that is considered inconsistent with published policies and practices.

Requests for exemption to this policy should be directed to University Communications, accompanied by written justification for the exemption request.

This policy and the University Web Standards will be reviewed on a bi-annual basis.

Restrictions of Publication Rights and Foreign Nationals in Sponsored Research Contracts

Title: Restrictions of Publication Rights and Foreign Nationals in Sponsored Research Contracts
Policy Owner: Vice President for Research and Graduate Faculty Council Executive Committee
Applies to: Faculty, Staff, Students, Others
Campus Applicability:
Effective Date:  April 6, 2004
For More Information, Contact Sponsored Program Services
Contact Information:  (860) 486-3619
Official Website: https://ovpr.uconn.edu/services/sps/proposals/

 

 

INTRODUCTION

This policy outlines the conditions under which UConn can accept restrictions on publication rights and foreign nationals in sponsored research contracts.  This policy is necessary because federal export control regulations (including International Traffic in Arms Regulations – ITAR) severely restricts all publication by PIs and carries severe sanctions.  Under these regulations federal agencies can withhold the right to publish, including a thesis.  Accordingly, the policy’s goal is to safeguard graduate students’ progress towards graduation while allowing them to gain valuable experience working on such sponsored research projects.

KEY ELEMENTS OF THE POLICY

A grant with restrictions on foreign nationals and publication rights can be accepted only if the following conditions are met:

1)      The Principal Investigator (P.I.) must show that graduate students will not be employed on the project for more than 6 months.  This determination will be made on a case-by-case basis and is not automatic.  Six months is the maximum appointment to be considered.  Furthermore, in the future similar work should be done by a technician or post-doc.

2)      The student must understand that the work cannot be part of his/her thesis because of the restrictions.  In addition, it is important that the student or post-doc understands that he/she cannot discuss the research with others in the lab and cannot allow anyone (besides the P.I.) access to the research data.   This information will be conveyed to each student and post-doc in a letter provided by the P.I.

3)      The P.I. must outline procedures to guarantee in writing that no other employee in the lab will have access to the data.  The PI must also guarantee that the work and resulting data will not be discussed in group meetings.

4)      The P.I., as well as each graduate student and post-doc, must sign the statements described in Sections 2 and 3 of this Policy.  OSP must get a signed copy of each statement before funds are released.

5)      The P.I. must be informed by OSP that the consequences of federal oversight on contracts with these restrictions can be severe, both for the individual and the institution.  The procedures outlined in this Policy are designed to protect him/her.

6)      The Associate Vice Provost may meet with the affected graduate student to ensure that he/she understands the Policy.

Responding to Requests for University Information, Policy on

Title: Responding to Requests for University Information, Policy on
Policy Owner: Information Technology Services
Applies to: Faculty, Staff
Campus Applicability:
Effective Date: October 22, 2007
For More Information, Contact Assistant VP for IT Security, Policy & Quality Assurance
Contact Information: (860) 486-4357
Official Website: https://its.uconn.edu/

Background and Reason for the Policy:

The University of Connecticut views University data, in all its forms and throughout its life cycle, as an asset of the University.  As an asset, University data must be protected to meet both Federal and State laws such as:

  • the Family Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA),
  • the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA),
  • the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA),
  • the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and
  • the Freedom of Information Action (FOIA),

as well as to comply with the policies of the institution.

However, many employees may not understand all of the confidentiality rules for the data to which they have access.  In addition, there has not been a clear protocol for dealing with requests for University data.

Purpose of Policy:

This policy is intended to direct employees of the University of Connecticut to whom requests for information may be made.

Expected Institutional Outcome: It is expected that this policy will provide the University community with a protocol for handling internal and external requests for University data.

Definitions:

  • Data Classification Policy:  See Data Classification Policy
  • Data Custodian: The entity/entities or office/offices that is/are delegated with the day-to-day operational-level responsibility of performing management functions for a defined portion of University data (i.e. specific administrative data sets) based on the definitions, procedures and guidelines developed by the Data Steward.
  • University Data:  Any recorded data or information relating to the University’s business prepared, owned, used, received, or retained by the University and its employees and agents, whether such data or information is handwritten, typed, tape-recorded, printed, photostatted, photographed or recorded by any other method.
  • External Requests: External requests are those made by individuals, agencies, groups or other entities outside of the University or by University members not acting in their official University capacity.
  • Internal Requests:  Internal requests are those made by a University office, a University employee, or a student.
  • Legitimate Business Purpose: A University Official has a Legitimate Business Purpose if the disclosure is relevant and necessary in the ordinary course of the requestor’s official duties and is related to the purpose for which the information was acquired.  Any University official who needs University Data in the course of performing instructional, supervisory, advisory, or administrative duties for the University has a Legitimate Business Purpose.
  • Official University Webpages: Official University of Connecticut webpages are those that have been created by the University, its campuses, colleges, schools, departments or other administrative unit, for University business.  Official University webpages clearly convey a relationship to the entire University and support and advance the University’s mission.
  • Publicly-Available:  Any information that is either published on one of the Official University webpages, the Undergraduate or Graduate Catalog, or other official University publication.
  • Non-publicly Available: Information that the employee gains by reason of employment with the University and that he/she knows or reasonably should know has not been made available to the general public.
  • University Official: A University Official is a University employee, administrator, officer, staff, professional, and any other individual who has been authorized by the University to act on behalf of the University.

Statement of Policy:

1. Internal Requests for Information:

  • Employees are permitted to disclose Publicly-Available University Data or to disclose Non-Publicly Available Data to a University Official with a Legitimate Business Purpose.  Employees may release information regarding individual student to that individual student.  All other requests should be referred as indicated below.
  • Requests for individual law student educational information or for lists of individual Law School student educational information should be referred to the Law School.
  • Requests for individual medical or dental student educational information or for lists of individual Medical School or Dental School student educational information should be referred to the University of Connecticut School of Medicine or School of Dentistry, respectively.
  • Requests for individual graduate student educational information by anyone other than the individual student, or for lists of individual graduate student educational information, should be referred to the Graduate School.
  • All other requests for student educational information by anyone other than the individual student, or for lists of individual student educational information, should be referred to the Registrar’s office.
  • Requests for individual employee personnel information by anyone other than the individual employee, or for lists of individual employee personnel information, should be referred to the Human Resources office.
  • Requests for summary University information should be referred to the Office of Institutional Research.
  • Requests for information concerning University purchases and procurement contracts should be referred to the Purchasing Department.
  • Requests for information on funded research should be referred to the Office of Sponsored Programs.
  • Requests for financial University data should be directed to the Chief Financial Officer.
  • Requests for information concerning University facilities should be directed to the Chief Operating Officer.
  • Requests for all other University Data should be directed to the appropriate Data Custodian.

2. External Requests for Information:

  • All external disclosures of University Data not defined as Publicly Available must comply with federal and state laws, as well as University policies.  University employees are only permitted to disclose University data to an external individual or entity that is Publicly Available except when permission has been given by those individuals whose information is being requested or under the exceptions listed below.
  • All requests for information from the news media should contact the Office of University Communications/University Relations, which will coordinate the response.
  • All requests for educational records concerning individuals other than oneself should be forwarded to the appropriate office:

–     University of Connecticut School of Medicine or School of Dentistry for records involving medical or dental students;

–    Law School for records involving law school students;

–    Registrar’s Office for records involving undergraduate or graduate students.

  • All requests for Student Employment Verifications and Student Job References should be directed to the Student Employment Office.
  • All requests for External Job References should be directed to Human Resources.
  • All court orders, subpoenas, warrants, or other legal instruments should be immediately forwarded to the Office of the Attorney General.
  • All other external requests for such information must be made in writing and referred to the University’s Privacy Officer.
  • A log of all external requests for information will be maintained by those offices that respond to such requests.

3. Exceptions:

  • Offices and employees who are responsible for regularly supplying the public with information pursuant to inquiries or requests need only refer the request to the University’s Privacy Office or the Attorney General’s office if the information is not usually communicated through that office or employee, or if the office or employee is unsure of the propriety of releasing the information.
  • Responses to questionnaires and surveys that require the provision of University aggregated data that has not been published should be directed to the Office of Institutional Research (OIR).  Each year, the OIR publishes statistical information which contain official University data and which is available from the OIR website.  Employees receiving such requests should use this published information as a primary source of information for completing questionnaires and surveys before sending them to the OIR for review.
  • If a request for information can be answered in its entirety from publicly-available information, the information may be provided by an employee or office.

Responsibilities:

The President, and/or their designee(s), has overall responsibility for implementation and enforcement of this policy.

Review of this policy by the President and/or their designee(s) will occur biennially.

Violations of this policy will result in appropriate disciplinary measures in accordance with University Laws and Bylaws, General Rules of Conduct for All University Employees, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and the University of Connecticut Student Conduct Code.