ASA Universal Code of Conduct

The ASA Universal Code of Conduct establishes clear expectations for behavior for all individuals participating in ASA activities. Our objective is to maintain a safe, respectful, inclusive, and professional environment across all ASA programs, events, and platforms.

1. Scope and Applicability

This Code of Conduct applies to all ASA employees, officers, Board members, volunteers, contractors, members, exhibitors, sponsors, guests, and any individual participating in ASA-sponsored activities, whether in person, online, or through affiliated digital platforms.

2. Core Standards of Conduct

All participants are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism, integrity, and respect. ASA does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or disruptive behavior of any kind.

3. Expectations for In-Person Events

Unacceptable conduct at in-person events includes, but is not limited to:
– Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination
– Physical, verbal, or signed abuse
– Derogatory or inappropriate comments related to protected characteristics
– Use of sexual or explicit content in presentations
– Repeated disruption of sessions
– Unauthorized sharing of confidential or copyrighted information
– Recording or photographing sessions without consent
– Promotion of products or services outside designated areas

4. Expectations for Virtual Events and Online Interactions

The same standards apply to virtual and online environments. Prohibited conduct includes:
– Harassment or abusive language
– Discriminatory or derogatory comments
– Sexual or explicit content
– Intentional disruption of online discussions
– Unauthorized recording, screenshots, or sharing of content
– Improper promotion of products or services

5. Anti-Retaliation

ASA strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who, in good faith, reports a concern or participates in an investigation. Retaliation will be treated as a separate violation of this Code.

6. Reporting Violations

Concerns should be reported in good faith as soon as possible. Reports may be submitted to:
– President & CEO
– Vice President of Finance and Administration

If a conflict of interest exists, reports may be directed to the Board Chair.

7. Investigation Process

ASA will acknowledge reports promptly and investigate concerns in a timely, fair, and impartial manner. Individuals with conflicts of interest will recuse themselves. ASA may consult legal counsel as needed.

8. Confidentiality

ASA will protect confidentiality to the extent possible. Information will be shared only on a need-to-know basis consistent with conducting a fair investigation and meeting legal obligations.

9. Consequences of Violations

Violations may result in corrective action based on the facts and circumstances, including but not limited to:
– Verbal or written warnings
– Removal from events
– Limits on future participation
– Revocation of membership
– Termination of employment or contracts

ASA reserves full discretion in determining appropriate corrective action. Fees and dues will not be refunded.

10. Board Member Responsibilities

Board members are held to these standards and are expected to uphold ASA’s fiduciary, ethical, and reputational responsibilities.

11. Appeals Process

Individuals may appeal findings by submitting written notice within 10 days and a full appeal within an additional 10 days to the Executive Committee. Appeals must be based on procedural error, incorrect findings, or excessive sanctions. The Executive Committee’s decision on appeal is final.