Policy of Policies

Purpose 

This document outlines the procedure for developing, reviewing, revising, approving, and implementing policies at SWOSU. It ensures that policies are clear, consistent, and effectively communicated. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all SWOSU departments, units, faculty, staff, and students involved in creating or revising institutional policies. 

Definitions 

• Policy: A statement that outlines specific principles or rules to guide decisions and achieve rational outcomes. 

• Procedure: Step-by-step processes necessary to comply with the policy. 

• Stakeholder: Any person or group interested in or affected by a policy. 

Policy Development 

• Proposals for new policies or revisions to existing policies should originate from a SWOSU academic or administrative department. 

• Students may be sponsored by a SWOSU department to propose a new policy or revision of a policy. 

• Student proposals or revisions must be submitted by the sponsored department and approved by the Dean of Students Office. 

• A preliminary draft should be shared with relevant departments or units for initial feedback. 

• Each policy should be accompanied by procedures, as necessary. 

Policy Review 

• All policies must be submitted by the department to the Executive Compliance Committee (ECC) for committee review. 

• The ECC will ensure that each policy aligns with SWOSU's mission, values, and strategic goals. 

Approval 

• Once reviewed by the ECC, policies will be submitted by the ECC to the University Executive Board for final approval. 

• For policies with significant implications, wider consultation may be required. 

Implementation 

• Once the policy has been approved by the University Executive Board, the policy will be posted [insert link here]. 

• The Human Resources Office (HR) is responsible for the dissemination of the policy across campus. 

• Training should be organized to familiarize stakeholders with new policies if needed. 

Policy Maintenance 

• The HR office should maintain a centralized and updated database of all SWOSU policies. 

• Policies should be reviewed by the ECC at least once every three years or as needed. 

Communication 

• All approved policies must be easily accessible to the SWOSU community, preferably through the university's official website. 

• Any significant changes or new policies should be communicated through internal channels (e.g., email, and portal announcements). 

Feedback 

• A mechanism should be in place for stakeholders to provide feedback on policies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. 

Non-compliance 

• Violation of university policies may result in disciplinary actions determined by the faculty handbook, staff handbook, or student handbook. 

Amendments 

• This Policy of Policies can be revised as needed, following the same procedure as any other policy. 

Review 

• This policy will be reviewed every five years by the ECC to ensure it remains current and effective. 

Revision & Approval History