3361:10-17-01. Conduct and ethics: statement on political policy

(A) The university of Cincinnati, a public institution dedicated to providing an environment conducive to teaching, learning, research, and a continuing search for truth, will generally remain neutral on any matter of political advocacy or public controversy or concern. The board of trustees, or its designee, shall determine whether the university will take a position on any matter of political advocacy or public controversy or concern. Notwithstanding the foregoing, under no circumstances will the university take a position in support of or against a political candidate for office.

(B) This rule is not intended to limit university staff, faculty, or the student body from engaging in constitutionally protected activity in their capacities as individual citizens. However, since the collective reputation of the university cannot be abrogated by an individual or group, any such activity must be taken in a way to make clear that it is not being carried on by or in the name of the university , unless authorized by the board of trustees, or its designee, as set forth in paragraph (A)of this rule.

(C) Letters, statements, or other means of communication or support by members of the staff, faculty, or student body on matters of political advocacy or public controversy or concern may not use the university's name, logos, copyrights, trademarks, or other university resources unless authorized by the board of trustees, or its designee, as set forth in paragraph (A) of this rule.

Effective: 1/8/2020
Promulgated Under: 111.15
Statutory Authority: 3361
Rule Amplifies: 3361
Prior Effective Dates: 03/16/1978, 10/28/1998