PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance relative to the expenditures from unrestricted gifts and donations; also included are examples of questionable types of expenditures.

GENERAL GUIDELINES/APPLICABLE POLICIES

Definitions:

Unrestricted gifts and donations for a particular department or school are those funds received from donors which have not been earmarked for a specific purpose. Should the donor impose restrictions on the expenditure of any gifts, it is the receiver's responsibility to notify the Office of Contracts and Grants with appropriate documentation of such restrictions.

Use of Unrestricted Funds:

It is the sole responsibility of the person responsible for the expenditures of the funds to utilize them in the support and enhancement of their particular academic or administrative discipline. The donor would naturally assume that a gift or donation to the University would be used for the benefit and enhancement of University related activities. In no way should these funds be used for expenditures that in normal operating circumstances are of a personal nature. It is advised that the Prudent Person Rule be utilized when expending such funds.

Examples of Unallowable Expenditures:

• Lunch or Dinner with coworkers where there are no external guests
• Expressions of Condolences
• Personal items such as brief cases, portfolios, umbrellas, etc.
• Travel for spouses and friends
• Coffee and refreshments for general office use. This would be acceptable for scheduled meetings

PROCEDURE

The appropriate University policies and procedures for Purchasing and paying for goods and services must be followed.