Gifts, Prizes, and Awards Policy Announced

UB Seal on Crosby Hall.

Published April 9, 2019

The Gifts, Prizes, and Awards Policy, approved and signed by President Tripathi, is available in the University Policy Library

The effective date for this policy is May 1, 2019.

Overview

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The University at Buffalo supports the recognition of its community members, employees, and students through the use of gifts, prizes, and awards. Such items may not be lavish or extravagant, and must comply with funding source restrictions outlined in the Gifts, Prizes and Awards Funding Chart.  Policy objectives are to achieve the following:

  • The university is in compliance with federal tax regulations instituted by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
  • Gifts, prizes and awards are reasonable and support the university’s mission of teaching, research, and community outreach
  • University funds are used with a clear business purpose

No funding source may be used to purchase gifts, prizes, or awards where the distribution of that item benefits a charitable organization.

Applicability

This policy applies to all faculty, staff, and student employees who use university funds to purchase gifts, prizes, or awards to distribute on behalf of the university.

This policy does not apply to honoraria, employees compensated as extra service or also receives, moving expenses, allowances, tuition support, or items purchased using non-university funds. This policy also does not govern the acceptance of a gift from a third party.

Granting or awarding financial aid is not considered an award for the purposes of this policy. Awards to students related to academic performance are considered financial aid and are not subject to this policy.

Guidance

Questions can be directed to the following experts:

Contact An Expert
Office Contact Phone Email
State Angie Rzeszut 716-645-4533 rzeszut@buffalo.edu
RF Non-Sponsored Brendan Davis 716-645-2602 brdavis@buffalo.edu
Sponsored Projects Services Mary Kraft 716-645-4420 mekraft@buffalo.edu
UB Foundation Rose Dommer 716-645-8749 rdommer@buffalo.edu