Civil Rights Compliance

Ethics in the Workplace

Central Washington University (CWU) is committed to providing a learning, working, and living environment that promotes personal integrity, civility and mutual respect. As all University employees are expected to be familiar and comply with state ethics laws, rules, and other related policies, this webpage provides an overview of expectations around and resources related to ethics in the workplace at CWU.

Washington State ethics laws (RCW 42.52, Ethics in Public Service) are designed to protect state employees from conflicts of interest or from engaging in activities where their interests or loyalties could be divided or questioned. Citizens of Washington State should have complete confidence in the integrity of CWU employees.

• The Washington State Executive Ethics Board enforces state ethics laws. For more information about the Washington State Executive Ethics Board, as well as access to online trainings and guidance on how to file a complaint, visit the Washington State Executive Ethics Board website.

Role of the CWU Ethics Advisor

An ethics advisor is a member of an institution from whom employees can seek ethical guidance. The Ethics Advisor may:

1. Assess the application of conflict of interest laws and regulations;
2. Counsel employees concerning ethics standards and programs; and
3. Assist managers and supervisors in understanding and implementing ethics programs.

Any complaints, questions, or concerns regarding ethics in the workplace should be made directly to the CWU Ethics Advisor and Director of Civil Rights Compliance, Thomas Pedersen.

Reporting Ethics Concerns

Use the Concern and Support (reporting) form to report concerns related to ethics in the workplace to the CWU Ethics Advisor.

• Training and Resources
• Policies and Procedures
• Ethics Advisory Committee