Policy Office
Introduced to the Howard University community in mid-October 2010, the University Policy Office (UPO) manages a coordinated, enterprise-wide policy process that supports Howard University and its mission. The UPO facilitates effective decision-making, promotes effective control over business process and flow, and prevents institutional exposure through a transparent, uniform and inclusive policy management process.
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What's New
300-007 Contracting Policy - The Office of Procurement and Contracts is responsible for providing strategic sourcing guidance and ensuring due diligence in the acquisition of all goods and services for the Howard University and Howard University Hospital with a goal of obtaining the highest quality products and services at the best value. Most acquisitions of goods and services are processed via a Purchase Order as described in Policy 200-003 Procurement - General. However, for specialized and complex acquisitions, a Contract is required to clearly document the terms, conditions, and rights of each party. This Policy sets forth the review and approval process for all Contracts involving the expenditure of funds by the University and Hospital with the exception of Contract types listed in Section (VI) of the Policy. Read the full Policy here. Please also see: Contracting Process Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
200-003 Procurement-General - This Policy has been updated. It guides the acquisition of all goods and services on the University’s behalf and is based on ethical conduct, sound business practices, accountability, best value, donor and sponsor requirements, and complies with Uniform Guidance and other federal regulations. Read the full Policy here.
Other University sites of interest: Office of Human Resources, The Dig, Office of the Provost/CAO, B.I.S.O.N. Safe
View All Policy DocumentsPolicies in the Spotlight
Policy 200-005
Environmental Policy
Howard University is committed to protecting the environment, preventing pollution, and creating a sustainable environment. This is reinforced in the University’s strategic plan, Howard Forward, with a commitment to use technology to “exceed standards for sustainability and environmental stewardship.” The University takes reasonable, practical measures to integrate environmental considerations into decision-making associated with its research, educational, and facility management efforts.
Learn MorePolicy 500-016
Non-Discrimination Policy and Procedures
The University is committed to ensuring compliance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the District of Columbia Human Rights Act of 1977, all as amended, and all other applicable federal, state and local laws that prohibit discrimination, harassment and retaliation in employment and/or at academic institutions. The University will not tolerate discrimination or harassment against any person in employment matters, or in the provision of its education programs or activities based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, age, matriculation, political affiliation, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, status as a direct or indirect victim of domestic violence, sexual offense, or stalking, or any other legally protected classifications, activities or conditions. This Policy applies to persons 18 years of age or older. See also 400-005 Policy Prohibiting Sex and Gender-Based Discrimination, Sexual Misconduct and Retaliation.
Learn MorePolicy 800-002
Political Activity Guidance to All Key Stakeholders Policy
This policy provides guidance to all Key Stakeholders - Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni - on partisan political activity that could jeopardize the University's status as a non-profit institution. A must-read for all Key Stakeholders to avoid any inadvertent attribution of political campaign activity to the University.
Learn MorePolicy Toolkit
The Policy Toolkit is designed to help you write policies that are clear, well-organized, and compliant with 400-001 The Policy on Policies