During the two most recent meetings of the Vice-Presidents’ Academic and Research Committee, two Indigenous identity verification policies were approved that will address the circumstances of individuals who apply to Indigenous-specific positions for faculty and staff, as well as awards and reserved academic program seats for students. Both policies were developed over multiple years in a consultative process to ensure accountability, accessibility and inclusivity. The verification and assessment processes will maintain the integrity of Carleton’s hiring practices and strengthen community connections, contribute to the well-being and safety of all Indigenous faculty, staff and students and increase collective knowledge on the problematic issue of Indigenous identity appropriation in academia. 

Hiring Policy for Positions Limited to Indigenous Candidates (new) 

The purpose of the Hiring Policy for Positions Limited to Indigenous (First Nation, Inuit and Métis) Candidates is to verify the Indigenous identity of applicants who apply for employment opportunities at Carleton that are specifically reserved for Indigenous candidates. This policy was jointly approved by the Senior Management Committee.  

This policy applies to the hiring of faculty, contract instructors, and professional staff for roles designated for Indigenous candidates. It aims to support Carleton’s commitment to diversity, in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code, and to address the need for a formal verification process in these hiring practices. 

Admissions and Awards Limited to Indigenous (First Nation, Métis and Inuit) Candidates Policy (new) 

The purpose of the Admissions and Awards Limited to Indigenous (First Nation, Métis and Inuit) Candidates Policy is to verify the Indigenous identity of student applicants who apply to academic program seats or awards, grants, bursaries and scholarships that are specifically reserved for Indigenous candidates. The policy ensures that the selection process is fair and upholds the integrity of Carleton’s commitment to Indigenous education, in line with the university’s Kinàmàgawin Strategy and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action. 

The Senior Management Committee met on September 25, 2024, to review and approve of the following policies: 

Supplier Code of Conduct Policy (new) 

The Supplier Code of Conduct Policy outlines the ethical, environmental, and social responsibility standards for all suppliers providing goods and services to the university. The policy ensures that suppliers uphold high standards of integrity, sustainability, and ethical behavior throughout their supply chains. 

This new policy replaces the previous Code of Conduct for Apparel Supplies and Trademark Licenses Policy as it significantly broadens its scope from a previous focus on apparel manufacturers to include all suppliers. In response to Bill S-211, it now incorporates provisions to prevent forced and child labor in supply chains. Additional sections have been introduced to address environmental sustainability, ethical labor practices, and animal welfare, reinforcing Carleton’s commitment to responsible supplier relationships. This expanded policy focus reflects the university’s commitment to transparency, sustainability, and ethical practices in procurement. 

  eCard Policy, Hazard Reporting Policy  

The eCard Policy at Carleton University provides guidelines for using eCards to make small, on-campus purchases. The policy ensures efficient procurement processes, proper controls, and accurate financial reporting for low-value transactions conducted on campus. 

All changes made are either minor wording changes, or because of the change in the reconciliation process and point of contact bringing the policy in line with current practice.  

Hazard Reporting Policy  

Carleton University’s Hazard Reporting Policy establishes the procedures for identifying, reporting, and addressing workplace hazards to ensure a safe environment for all members of the university community, including staff, students, and contractors. 

The revised policy is now under the responsibility of Office of Risk Management, and it clearly outlines roles and responsibilities, emphasizing the university’s commitment to managing and mitigating workplace risks.  

 Cash/Cash Equivalent Handling Policy  

The Cash/Cash Equivalent Handling Policy governs the management, safeguarding, and recording of cash and other monetary instruments at Carleton University. It aims to prevent the mishandling of funds and ensure accurate financial records. 

The updated policy refines the roles and responsibilities of staff and managers handling cash, emphasizing the importance of record-keeping and reconciliation. New internal controls have been introduced, including surprise cash counts and internal audits to detect and prevent potential fraud. These updates strengthen the safeguards around cash handling and ensure greater accountability across departments. 

 Reservist Leave Policy  

The Reservist Leave Policy provides guidelines for Carleton University employees who are also members of the Canadian Forces and require leave for military service. The policy ensures job protection and guarantees reinstatement upon their return. 

The updated policy reduces the required service time before reservist leave eligibility from six months to two months. It also expands the reasons for leave to include military skills training and the treatment of physical or mental health conditions arising from service. Additionally, the policy guarantees employees will return to the same or a comparable position, reinforcing the university’s support for reservists.