The protection of confidential information and trade secrets is vital to the interests and the success of the University. Employees must safeguard confidential information and maintain the confidentiality of student and employee records. Such confidential information includes, but is not limited to, the following: student information, compensation data, customer lists, financial information, and business strategies. Confidentiality pertains to information relating to, among others, students, parents, alumni, donors, employees, candidates for faculty or staff positions, or for enrollment. Employees may disclose confidential information acquired in the course of employment or University affiliation on a need-to-know basis for official university or legal purposes and only when authorized or legally compelled to do so. Employees who improperly use or disclose trade secrets or confidential information are subject to disciplinary action and possible termination of employment, even if the employee does not actually benefit from the disclosed information.
All employees have access to sensitive University business information and/or personal data and must sign a confidentiality agreement. The agreement dictates the requirements and responsibilities of those who have access to such information and ensures that all parties concerned understand their confidentiality obligations. A copy of Stevenson’s Confidentiality Agreement can be found on the University’s website.
(APPROVED JULY 2018)