Reporting Inappropriate Activities (Whistleblower Hotline)

Whistleblower Hotline: 1.800.971.4317, or via the Web Reporting Hotline System.

The University of Chicago strives to create the best possible environment for scholarly activity. Increasingly, this environment is affected by laws, rules and regulations, and the University’s own policies. Each of us is obligated to know what to do to comply with these requirements, and to do what is right. Under University policy, it is the responsibility of employees who are aware of any inappropriate actions to make the University aware so the situation can be properly addressed. We also encourage you to ask questions relating to ethical and compliance issues.

The University maintains a range of reporting options, including a telephone hotline (1.800.971.4317) and an online Web Reporting Hotline System, for the reporting of concerns about compliance with applicable laws, rules, regulations, and policies at the University; or misappropriation of University assets, accounting irregularities, or fraud. You are also encouraged to seek guidance regarding ethics or compliance issues. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You may also choose to report information anonymously. University policy prohibits retaliation against employees who report possible violations in good faith. All reports are investigated and addressed as appropriate.

This hotline service does not replace other existing reporting methods, and the University encourages members of the University community to report concerns through normal lines of communication, as listed below. Routine discussion with one’s supervisor is generally the preferred method to address concerns. The University also provides a Points of Contacts List of other resources to provide assistance.

The hotline is not intended for reporting employee grievances, such as complaints concerning working conditions, performance evaluations, hours of work, wages, or merit raises, and only compliance-related issues will be investigated. Please contact Human Resource Services' Office of Employee Relations to discuss any grievance you may have.

If your concern relates to the University of Chicago Medicine, the primary point of contact is the UCM Resource Line at 877.440.5480. (All Reports Confidential)

In case of an emergency, life threatening injury, or immediate danger, please call 911.

Process for Addressing Inappropriate Activities

1. Review Applicable Policies
   Is there a possible violation? If yes, seek department help. If you are not sure, contact the appropriate institutional resource for advice.*
2. Seek Departmental Help
   Contact a supervisor or administrator in your department for advice about your concern. If further assistance is required, contact the head of your department. 
3. Contact Organizational Executive
   Seek assistance from your chair, dean, director, or divisional head. If your concern cannot be handled within the unit, seek institutional assistance.
4. Contact Institutional Resources
   Contact the appropriate institutional resource for the further assistance.*
5. Call the Whistleblower Hotline at 800.971.4317
   Call the hotline for suspected fraud or illegal activity that cannot be resolved through the previous channels. Reports may be anonymous.
   

*See the Points of Contacts List for the appropriate person in your unit.

Note: Retaliation against employees who report possible violations in good faith is against University of Chicago policy.

For any questions regarding the Hotline, please contact Amy Meyers, Business Administrator for the Office of Compliance and Internal Audit.