Policy Frequently Asked Questions

University policies prescribe standards, requirements, restrictions, rights, or responsibilities and support the mission, values, and operation of the University. Policies may not exist except at the University level. Divisions, colleges, schools, departments, programs, offices, etc., may have guidelines, practices, and standard operating procedures.

University policies are essentially ‘How To’ manuals for faculty, staff, students, and administrators to help them understand and perform the duties required of them. They prescribe standards, requirements, restrictions, rights, or responsibilities and support the mission, values, and operation of the University.

Many different University entities are involved in writing University policy. When a policy need is identified, a policy sponsor and steward are assigned and form a writing committee of University entities with experience in the subject matter. Generally, policies can be proposed by a representative group such as the Faculty Senate or Staff Association or by a department with authority over the policy and/or subject matter area. Sometimes a representative group is designated by a Cabinet member to address a policy need. Policy stewards and their writing committees, in consultation with SUU’s Office of Legal Affairs, draft and revise policies for the University.

During the drafting process, policy stewards and their writing committees, in consultation with the Office of Legal Affairs as needed, research applicable federal, state, and local laws; Utah Board of Higher Education policies; similar policies at other universities; related policies at SUU; and other information pertinent to the policy.

Once the Stage 1 policy draft is ready, it enters a vigorous process of review and revision wherein every member of the University Community has the opportunity to provide feedback. For more information, see Policy Process.

After sufficient review and revision, and with approval from President’s Council, the policy must be reviewed and approved by the SUU Board of Trustees before it is enacted. Following approval and implementation, policies are reviewed regularly to ensure they are kept up-to-date and continue to meet compliance standards.

Any University employee, entity, or student may make recommendations regarding University policy. For policy issues related to your work area, contact your supervisor. For general University policy matters, contact the Vice President’s Office.

Consider your local, state and federal laws, Board of Regents, and/or USHE policies.

To get inspired, look at policies from surrounding Universities that relate to the same subject matter(s). In doing so, it is important that you remain cognizant of SUU’s current policies, and that the language is cohesive and not in conflict.