Background Checks

LOCK HAVEN UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

ACADEMIC APPOINTMENT BACKGROUND CHECKING PROCEDURE

PURPOSE:

To proved a formal process for background checks of finalists for all academic appointments.

BACKGROUND CHECKING DEFINED:

Background checks include inquiries aimed at criminal activities and related matters and, as appropriate, verification of educational credentials.

PROCEDURE:

At the point of hire for an academic appointment (APSCUF), the candidate will be informed that the offer is contingent on the submission of an LHUP Application of Employment, information and consent form and a background check that will be conducted by an outside vendor for review by Lock Haven University.  The background check will be limited to Department of Motor Vehicle records, criminal conviction records, and when applicable, credit reports and verification of highest degree earned.  Only information regarding these areas will be conveyed by the vendor to the Director of Human Resources and will be kept in strict confidence by the University.

At the time of application, candidates will be asked to submit an LHUP Application of Employment identifying any felony convictions or convictions of other crimes involving sex offenses or misappropriation of funds and any sanctions for professional misconduct, harassment, or discrimination.  The completed application of employment is returned to the Office of Human Resources and will be kept in strict confidence by the University.

Candidates will be informed of any findings of concern and be given the opportunity to verify and reply to them.  In considering whether an offer is to be rescinded as a result of any finding based on the background check, the college dean and department chair, in consultation with the Provost or President, will consider context, which in the case of criminal convictions will include the seriousness of the crime, the time elapsed since the conviction, and evidence of rehabilitation.

2/2008

  Last Updated 04/22/2010