The University has limited resources to carry out its teaching,
research and service missions and is held accountable by the people of the State of
Michigan for appropriate expenditure of its resources. With this in mind, discretion
should always be used when expending University funds, regardless of source.
Guidelines for the purchase of flowers are enumerated below. In the
context of these guidelines, the use of the term flowers is used to denote flowers,
planters, baskets or similar items. The provost or a vice president must approve any
exception to these guidelines.
As a general rule, University funds should not be used to purchase
flowers for non-official functions, personal office decorations or for personal occasions
such as birthdays, weddings or illnesses. Flowers should be purchased from discretionary
or non-general fund sources whenever possible.
Flower Purchase Guidelines Permit:
A funeral arrangement (less than $75) for a deceased employee, adjunct
faculty member, retired employee or major donor (Presidents Club or higher),
their spouse/domestic partner and dependent children (Note – The
lead department should coordinate sending flowers). A monetary contribution
(up to $75) to a non-profit charity, research or educational organization is
permitted in lieu of flowers when the family of the deceased so requests.
Flowers for non-employees (including currently
enrolled students) to further the mission of the University, as
determined and approved by the Provost or associate/assistant provost, a vice
president or associate/assistant vice president, a dean or associate/assistant
dean or an equivalent separately reporting position.
Flowers to faculty or staff to recognize significant professional
achievement, as determined and approved by the Provost or associate/assistant provost, a
vice president or associate/assistant vice president, a dean or associate/assistant dean
or an equivalent separately reporting position.
Flowers for University functions such as commencement, faculty, staff
or student award ceremonies and official receptions.
Holiday decorations (e.g. Poinsettias) purchased only for public areas
of buildings supported by the fee-paying general public (such as Breslin
Center or Kellogg Center).
Flowers for seminars and other events where the attendees are paying a
registration fee, which covers the costs of the event.