SECTION 48: Flower Purchase Guidelines

Last updated: March 2023

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 (up to $150) for a deceased employee, adjunct faculty member, retired employee or major donor, their spouse/domestic partner and dependent children (Note – The lead department should coordinate sending flowers). A monetary contribution (up to $150) to a non-profit charity, research or educational organization is permitted in lieu of flowers when the family of the deceased so requests (see Section 47, Item II. – Sponsorships and Donations)).

Flowers for non-employees (including currently enrolled students) to further the mission of the University, as determined and approved by the Provost, Vice President, Dean, including Assistant and Associate positions, or at the College/MAU level – Budget Officer, Chief of Staff or CFO.

Flowers to faculty or staff to recognize significant professional achievement, as determined and approved by the Provost, Vice President, Dean, including Assistant and Associate positions, or at the College/MAU level – Budget Officer, Chief of Staff or CFO.

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.

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