You are here: American University Board of Trustees Ethics Hotline

Ethics Hotline

Toll Free: 1-866-860-0004** or

http://www.lighthouse-services.com/americanedu

Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

**THIS IS NOT AN EMERGENCY SERVICE.

For events presenting an immediate threat to life or property, call 911.

Ethics Hotline – What To Report:

American University expects its employees to perform their duties in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, University policy and procedures, and high ethical standards. A culture of compliance promotes ethical practices and respectful treatment of all members of the University community and those who conduct business with the University.

A confidential third-party Ethics Hotline is provided through Lighthouse Services so that any member of the University community who is aware of questionable practices may report those concerns on an anonymous basis. These concerns may include misconduct, such as embezzlement, theft, falsifying documents, financial conflicts of interest and violations of applicable law. Misconduct also includes the use of University property, resources, or authority for personal gain or other non-University-related purpose. 

Every member of the University community plays a vital role in helping AU maintain an ethical environment. Issues may be reported 24 hours a day by calling the toll-free number or visiting the website. All reports are anonymous unless you choose to identify yourself. 

American University’s Whistleblower Policy:

The University’s Whistleblower policy provides that anyone who makes a “good faith” report related to misconduct or other ethical concern will not be subjected to retaliation by the University. https://www.american.edu/trustees/policies.cfm.

Concerns reported via the Lighthouse Service are transcribed and provided to the University’s Office of General Counsel.   Established procedures are followed depending upon the nature of the concern.

If you choose not to use the Ethics Hotline, you may:

  • Contact the Office of General Counsel directly at 202-885-3285 or lawyers@american.edu.
  • Contact the Provost or Vice President to whom you report.

Upon receipt of a report of misconduct, the University will take prompt action to investigate the report, take corrective action to address any misconduct and issue regular reports to the Board of Trustees Audit Committee.

 

Revised May 2020