Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest occurs when an individual is able to influence or benefit from the individual’s position or relationships with others.  This ability to influence or benefit is different than others’ abilities to influence or benefit.  Some could term this an “unfair advantage.”

According to Indiana law (IC 35-44-1-3), an Employee who knowingly or intentionally has a monetary interest in or profits from a University contract or purchase may have a conflict of interest. Failure to disclose this conflict is a Class D felony punishable by fines and/or imprisonment. In order to be in compliance with this policy, an employee must make the required disclosure in advance of the contract or purchase and the disclosure must be approved in advance by the Board of Trustees and submitted to the Indiana State Board of Accounts.

According to Ball State University Policy (Page 199, 2012-2013 Faculty and Professional Personnel Handbook) a conflict of interest exists when a University employee is in a position to influence, either directly or indirectly, University business, research or other decisions in matters in which the employee or a dependent of the employee has a significant financial interest.

The Ball State University Conflict of Interest program is administered by the Office of Business Affairs, please visit their website for the proper procedures for disclosing a conflict of interest.