IST defines an instructional conflict of interest as any situation where a student is enrolled in a course taught by a family member or romantic partner.
IST strongly advises that such situations be avoided. If, for any reason, a member of the faculty believes an instructional conflict of interest cannot avoided, the potential instructional conflict of interest must be reported to the department head, who will work collaboratively with the Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs. The department head and associate dean will assist in exploring alternatives to avoid the instructional conflict of interest. If no alternative can be identified that will avoid the instructional conflict of interest, a management plan, as specified in AD102 Consensual Relationships, will be defined. Note that although AD102 only specifies consensual relationships, IST also considers family relationships to fall under the same principles and guidelines.
If there is any uncertainty in determining whether an instructional conflict of interest exists (e.g., for comparatively distant family relations), please consult with the department head.
Approved by: Dr. Andrew Sears, Dean 8/4/2022
Revised: added the role of the department head 6/11/2025