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Compliance and Integrity

Ethical Decision Making

NC State University is founded on integrity and expects members of the university community to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the highest standards of excellence and ethical behavior.

As individual members of the university community, our behavior is a reflection of who we are and affects not only our individual reputations, but also the reputation of the university. 

While both personal and business ethics may be defined in many different ways, our collective goal is always aimed at doing the right thing with roots in emphasizing truth and fairness. Here at NC State, business ethics include the consideration of how your decisions impact your colleagues, the university and the public at large. Those in leadership positions have the additional responsibilities of setting clear expectations, leading by example and promoting a culture where employees feel comfortable asking clarifying questions and raising concerns.

Ethics is a component of every action or choice made in the workplace. Every choice we make in the workplace should reflect behavior consistent with the university’s values.  

The framework below provides a practical framework to assist in evaluating business decisions or actions. This guidance can help prevent misconduct and safeguard the collective reputations of the university and its employees.

Consistent with the values of NC State University, ask yourself – will the decision I make demonstrate:

Integrity

Am I being fair and honest, avoiding actual or perceived conflicts of interests or commitments?  Am I being transparent? Am I certain that this action is legal and ethically sound?

Community and Inclusion

Am I being respectful to the ideas of others, embracing and valuing diversity, and ensuring that I am not taking advantage of others?

Sustainability

Am I using the university’s resources to carry out my responsibilities to the university, or will this use provide me some personal benefit?

For more guidance, refer to the Framework for Ethical Decision Making resource.

If you are still uncertain of the right thing to do in a given situation and need more assistance: