WORKING AT USM
A Concise Guide For Employees
7: Conflict Management and Resolution
7.1
Conflict of Interest Policy
7.2 Political Activity
7.3 Workplace Discrimination or
Harassment
7.4 Mediation of Disputes
7.5 Grievance Procedures
7.1 Conflict of Interest Policy
Employees are expected to exercise care that no real or perceived
damage occurs to the public trust in USM due to possible conflicts between personal and
University interests. If a potential conflict of interest arises, you are to disclose it
to an appropriate supervisor and refrain from the activity until the conflict question is
resolved. You should review the University
policy which covers situations such as receiving gifts from suppliers, entering into a
contract with the University, accepting outside commitments/employment, using the
Universitys name or resources for personal benefit, employing close relatives, and
other matters.
7.2 Political Activity
Employees are encouraged to participate in the political process.
This may at times include the holding of elective or appointive positions subject to
approved adjustments in the terms and conditions of employment. Prior to deciding to run
for elective office or to accept a public appointment, consult the details in University policy.
7.3 Workplace Discrimination or Harassment
The University is committed to equal opportunity; to providing
access to the University for people with disabilities; and to maintaining a welcoming
environment free from discrimination, intimidation, and sexual harassment. The following
policies/information are available from the Office
of Campus Diversity and Equity (780-5094):
Accommodating
Employees and Job Applicants with Disabilities
Equal Opportunity
Policy and Complaint Procedure
Sexual Harassment and
Guidelines
7.4 Mediation of Disputes
The University seeks to provide a comfortable, welcoming and
supportive living and learning environment for all who live and work at the University.
All members of the campus community are encouraged to resolve problems and complaints
informally as they arise. When additional help is needed, however, mediation can assist to
resolve conflicts in an informal and confidential setting. Mediation is an informal
process in which parties can present their views and create their own solutions to a
conflict, with the guidance of a trained mediator. The University Mediation Program
handles cases involving student to student, faculty/staff to faculty/ staff, student to
faculty/ staff, multi -party, and organizational cases. Members of the University
community may use the services of USM's Mediation Program by calling 780-5673.
7.5 Grievance Procedures
Employees may bring complaints concerning their employment to
supervisors for informal discussion and resolution without fear of reprisal. If informal
discussion does not resolve the matter, the employee has the opportunity to present a
formal written grievance to the supervisor. Please consult your appropriate bargaining unit agreement/handbook for
details. The appropriate grievance form is available on-line or by calling 780-5263.