Washington University in St. Louis logo
Photo of Brookings Hall

Policies & Procedures

Guidelines for Candidates and Other Political Speakers at Washington University

Washington University is committed to the expression of a wide diversity of ideas and opinions and to the discussion of those ideas and opinions. Consistent with these principles, the University encourages University organizations to sponsor speakers of varying ideas and opinions, subject to the University's obligations to maintain political neutrality, to comply with applicable law, and to provide a safe and secure forum.

Washington University enjoys tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and is thus prohibited from participating or intervening, directly or indirectly, in any political campaign. Federal Election Commission regulations also place limitations on political activity at educational institutions. The State of Missouri Charter that established Washington University also requires that the University be politically neutral.

It is important for all members of the University community to keep in mind certain standards applicable to appearances on campus by candidates, representatives of candidates, and other representatives of political parties or political action committees. In addition to complying with the Policy for Scheduling University Space Through Event Services and/or the Policy for Scheduling University Space Through Individual Departments, University organizations hosting or sponsoring such events must comply with, and must advise speakers and their staffs of, these guidelines:

On occasion, members of the University community choose to pursue public office or engage in campaign-related activity while employed by the University. In addition to the guidelines listed above, and applicable provisions of the University's Policy on Academic Freedom, Responsibility, and Tenure, the employee must also comply with the following:

Latest Revision: April 2004