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Affinity Group Guidelines, Timeline & Application

University of Utah Employee Affinity Group Guidelines
The intention of the University of Utah affinity groups is to create a safe space for individuals and their allies or advocates to share their ideals, experiences, and information. Membership is open to all employees of the University of Utah who are in support of the mission, goals, and values as defined by the affinity group.

University of Utah affinity groups must have a clearly defined purpose/goal, even if the specified purpose is to bring people closer together.

Affinity Groups involving staff are under the umbrella of the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (“EDI”) Division of the University of Utah and are approved by the EDI Staff Council Committee Members of University of Utah. All University of Utah Affinity Groups, are subject to University Speech Policy, University Policies and Procedures, Codes of Conduct including Code of Conduct for Staff, and Code of Faculty Rights and Responsibilities.  [1]

Affinity groups can build community, educate, and/or empower individuals identifying with the group’s purpose or focus. Allies and advocates are welcome but are encouraged to take a more passive role in discussions. Advocates should be prepared to learn from their peers and will be removed from the group should they attempt to remove power from those they claim to empower.

As per University Code of Conduct, respectful dialogue is encouraged to bring about understanding and clarity when questions and conflicts arise.

Affinity groups are not-for-profit entities. Any gifts, donations, or membership dues shall be for the express purpose of use by the affinity group to further the stated mission, goals, and values of the individual affinity group and as outlined herein.

Funds will be held in a specified activity and chartfield within EDI, but decisions made about those funds will be with the relevant Affinity Groups.

Any Affinity group that chooses to implement membership fees/dues will also create by-laws.

The activities, programs, and services of the affinity groups must follow University guidelines for social outreach and any form of advertisements. Use of University logos must follow University branding guidelines.

The document is subject to revision in the first six months based on our learning experiences with the new groups.

[1] Affinity Groups involving only faculty coordinate through the Associate Vice President for Faculty.

STEP 1: Submit Application

Submit your application for an affinity group on the Staff Council (UUSC) website.

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STEP 2: UUSC Internal Review

The UUSC EDI Committee will review your application to ensure it meets University guidelines and policies. We may contact vou to ask questions or schedule a consultation as needed.

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STEP 3: Executive Review

Applications that are recommended for approval by the UUSC EDI Committee will be forwarded to the UUSC Executive Board for final approval.

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STEP 4: Decision

You will be notified in writing whether your affinity group has been approved or disapproved.

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STEP 5: Support Consultation

If your affinity group is approved, you will be referred to resources on campus that may help you launch your affinity group.

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STEP 6: Launch

Launch your affinity group! Please tag the Staff Council in any advertising so we can help raise awareness about your group.

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STEP 7: Annual Report

Each year on your approval anniversary, submit your Affinity Group Annual Report to update the Staff Council EDI Committee on the progress of your group.

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STEP 8: Closure Report

If you decide to dissolve or retire your group, please notify the UUSC EDI Committee via an Affinity Group Closure Report.

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If you would like to become a recognized Affinity Group, please complete this form:

Affinity Group Application

Affinity Group Application

AFFINITY GROUP CONTACT / LIAISON INFORMATION
Name
Name
First
Last

AFFINITY GROUP INFORMATION

Source of group resources
What type of events do you expect to have?
We agree to abide by the University's Affinity Group Guidelines, as listed on this page.
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