Because of the number of administrative forms utilized in carrying on
the fiscal activities of an institution the size of Michigan State
University, it is appropriate and necessary to have a consistent set
of signature requirements for financial documents. Without such
requirements, excessive or inappropriate signatures may be
obtained with the end result being that transactions may not take place
on a timely basis or have proper approval.
The following are the University's four signature categories and
the encompassed administrative levels:
- Unit Administrator Designate (Any personnel granted
signature authority by the Unit Administrator)
- Unit Administrator (Chairpersons and Directors)
- Dean or Assistant Vice President, or
Dean or Assistant Vice President Designate (Signature authority
granted by a Dean or Assistant Vice President)
- Vice President or Provost, or
Vice President or Provost Designate (Signature authority
granted by a Vice President or Provost)
For each of the four categories, signature authority is
granted by sending a memo request (signed by an authorized signer at least one
category level above that which is being requested) and a signed signature
sticker (signed by the individual seeking signature authority) to Accounting,
360 Administration Building. Contact Accounting (355-5000) with questions or
to request signature stickers.
In order for forms to be processed on a timely basis, the
signature of a person at the administrative level specifically
designated (see Exhibit 66-B)
must appear on the form. The signature of a person at a higher administrative
level than that required will be accepted in all cases.
At a Department's discretion, for all categories, the designated administrator
may require that other individuals sign or initial the various forms prior
to their signature.