The University of Utah is updating its process for signing agreements with researchers and universities around the world.
On Aug. 5, the university’s Board of Trustees approved a new process for approving such contracts, or memorandums of understanding (MOUs), including a “risk matrix.” The new approval process will pull in leaders of Government Affairs, the Office for Faculty and the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs.
“While this established process has proven effective in facilitating the advancement of MOUs, it has become increasingly evident that expanding the pool of individuals and groups involved in the review would enhance the rigor and comprehensiveness of the evaluations,” Senior International Officer Randy McCrillis wrote in a July 1 memo. “Such an inclusive approach would allow for a broader perspective on the potential impacts and opportunities these agreements can offer the university community.”
The U has more than 100 such agreements which span the globe—including in India, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. The most recent such MOU signed was an agreement with Ariel University on May 19. That contract has spurred a faculty protest. The U’s chapter of the group Faculty for Justice in Palestine is circulating a petition calling for the university to terminate the agreement and abandon any partnership with Ariel University.
In the past, each MOU was reviewed by key stakeholders, including the Foreign Influence Office and the Office of General Counsel.
Under the updated process, the risk matrix will be evaluated for each proposed global agreement. Institutions categorized as medium or high risk will require a full risk assessment outlining specific concerns. All reviewers will receive the risk assessment before signing off on the MOU.
Provost Mitzi Montoya called the new process “thoughtful and intentional.” She noted the Academic Senate has advised on the changes.
“By involving these key stakeholders, we can foster a collaborative environment that ensures our future partnerships are sustainable and yield significant benefits for the university as a whole,” McCrillis wrote. “Their insights and expertise will be instrumental in building strong, mutually beneficial relationships.”
The new guidance goes into effect immediately.