Montclair State University

Holiday Gifts Memo

TO:                 All Employees

FROM:            Frank Schwartz, Ethics Liaison Officer

DATE:            November 29, 2006

SUBJECT:       Holiday Gifts and Receptions

With the holiday season approaching, the State Ethics Commission has requested that I remind University employees of the State prohibition against accepting gifts from individuals or organizations doing business with the University.  The Commission requires me to keep track of all gifts that we receive in our official capacity.

Benefits of trivial value (such as complimentary calendars or pens that are offered to the general public through mass mailings) do not have to be returned as long as their use does not create the impression of an endorsement.  Prominently posting a calendar with a contractor’s name emblazoned on it in a University office would pose a problem, however.

Non-perishable gifts of more than trivial value should be returned to the sender.  Perishable items should be donated to a local charity.  In either case, write the donor a note explaining why you cannot accept the gift, and please copy me on that note.  The Commission requires me to keep such notes on file.

Unless attendance at holiday parties and other receptions sponsored by interested parties serves a legitimate State purpose, you should refrain from attending such events.  Your attendance at a vendor’s party could create the appearance of your being too closely connected to that vendor.

Enjoy the holidays.  Feel free to direct any questions you might have about gifts and parties to me at ext. 4213 or schwartzf@mail.montclair.edu.