May Policy Updates: Key Developments and Revisions

In our ongoing commitment to keeping policies current and our community informed of changes, these are the updates and policy notifications for May. Take a moment to review the information, and feel free to reach out with any questions or feedback.

Policies Open for Campus Comment: We Want Your Input

We value your feedback as part of the policy development process. We’ve posted these policies online for your review. The Policy Office will forward your comments to the policy owner for a response. Please note that anonymous comments are not eligible for a direct response but may still be considered when finalizing document changes.

• Marketing & Communications’ Mass Communication Channels – Comments due May 31
  Effective communication is foundational to a well-functioning university. When the institution speaks to students, faculty, staff, alumni, or the public, those messages should be clear, consistent, and worthy of trust. Marketing & Communications (M&C)-managed channels carry significant reach and institutional weight. Without a coordinating framework, that reach creates risk: duplicated messages, conflicting information and communications that may not reflect UND’s priorities or standards. This policy provides that framework, defining how M&C channels are requested, approved, and used, and making explicit the roles and responsibilities of those involved. At the same time, this policy is not about centralizing all communication. Units across campus play an essential role in reaching their own audiences, and their ability to do so through unit-managed channels remains unchanged.
• Brand, Identity & Licensing – Comments due May 31
  The UND brand is among the University’s most significant and enduring assets. How it appears – and how consistently it appears – shapes perceptions of UND among students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, partners, employers, and the broader community. Inconsistent or unauthorized use undermines those perceptions, may diminish its value, and can expose the University to legal and reputational risk. This policy establishes a clear framework for brand stewardship. By centralizing oversight through M&C and Licensing, UND can ensure its trademarks are used accurately and in compliance with intellectual property law, while reinforcing the credibility and professionalism that the brand represents. Authorized licensing also supports the University’s financial interests and expands UND’s visibility through vetted partnerships. This policy exists to ensure that every use of the UND brand – wherever it appears – reflects the quality and character of the institution it represents.

Revised Policies: Updates and Changes

We have revised several existing policies, making updates that range from editorial adjustments to more substantial changes. Editorial revisions aim to clarify language, streamline policy flow, and update essential information, such as contact details and hyperlinks.

Some revisions are more substantive and affect what is allowed, prohibited, or required to do. These adjustments ensure policies remain aligned with organizational goals and regulatory standards. Additionally, policies can undergo conforming updates to align them with external regulations and industry standards. This helps ensure our policies comply with evolving legal and regulatory requirements.

• Sponsored Program Closeouts – editorial revisions
• Accepting & Managing Philanthropic Gifts – editorial revisions
• Travel – editorial revisions
• Pregnancy & Pregnancy-Related Protections for Students & Employees – editorial revisions
• Credit Card Acceptance and Processing – multi-year review; editorial revisions
• Remote Worksite Locations – multi-year review; editorial revisions
• Faculty Handbook – editorial and conforming revisions

For a full list of new and revised documents, please visit the “New & Recently Revised Policies” list. If you have questions or wish to provide feedback, we encourage you to contact the policy owner directly or submit your feedback electronically.

Stay up-to-date on the latest policy developments as we continue to improve and enhance our institution. Visit the Policy Office website for more information.