Ethics hotline: New site, same confidentiality

The Iowa State hotline that allows individuals to anonymously report university-related activities that may be criminal, unethical or inappropriate is located at a new URL and hosted by information technology services rather than an outside vendor.

The recent switch from the vendor EthicsPoint to an Iowa State website maintains the key element of the hotline -- an easy, anonymous reporting mechanism, said university counsel Paul Tanaka.

"We worked with IT to develop a system that maintains anonymity," Tanaka said. "The system does NOT capture the computer IP address or phone number of the individual making the report."

Sheryl Rippke, policy administrator, will continue to manage the hotline, following up on reports.

"Individuals do have the option to submit their names, phone numbers and email addresses when making a report," Rippke said. "Contact information is helpful because it allows us to follow up as needed."

The new ISU Compliance and Ethics Hotline website provides more information on:

  • Issues that are reportable through the hotline, for example, misuse of funds, waste of resources, falsification of contracts, research misconduct, conflicts of interest, unsafe environments, legal violations, serious violations of ISU policy
  • Issues that should be reported elsewhere, for example, personnel matters or instances of discrimination, harassment or student conduct

ISU units are encouraged to display this hotline poster in their areas.

Reporting a violation

You can report a violation via: