The University of California has a responsibility to conduct its affairs ethically and in compliance with the law. If you suspect that a UC employee is engaged in improper governmental activities, you should know that UC has policies on "blowing the whistle" and protection from retaliation.
Improper governmental activities include:
- Violations of state or federal laws or regulations (e.g., corruption, malfeasance, bribery, theft or misuse of government property, fraud, coercion, conversion);
- Economic waste; and
- Gross misconduct, gross incompetence or gross inefficiency.
You can "blow the whistle" by reporting your allegations via phone or in writing using one of these resources:
- Your Supervisor
- UC Merced's Locally Designated Official
- Viola Kinsman, Director of Ethics and Compliance, (209) 291-5150
- UC Merced Whistleblower Poster
- UC Systemwide Whistleblower Hotline
- Online UC Whistleblower Hotline or call 800-403-4744
- The hotline is independently operated to ensure anonymous and confidential reporting
- California State Auditor
- Online Complaint Form or call 800-952-5665
- Report Improper Activity (Poster)
- Report Improper Activity (Brochure)
- For more information about reporting to this outside agency, please see the File a Complaint page on the State Auditor's website
The University prohibits retaliation against employees who in good faith, report suspected ethical, legal or policy violations.