Clay Family Society, Inc.
Adopted by the Board of Directors on May 5, 2026
Last Updated: May 5, 2026
This Code of Conduct defines expected standards of behavior for participation in Clay Family Society activities, communications, research collaboration, and community spaces.
1. Scope
This Code applies to CFS meetings, events, workgroups, email and online communications, research collaboration, website participation, and use of CFS records or resources.
2. Expected Conduct
Participants will treat others with respect, communicate in good faith, welcome constructive disagreement, and support a collegial research environment. Members should use CFS resources responsibly and respect the time of volunteers.
3. Research Integrity
Research claims should distinguish evidence from interpretation. Participants should cite sources where practical, respect copyright and attribution, correct material errors when identified, and avoid presenting unverified conclusions as established fact.
4. Privacy and Confidentiality
Participants must respect the privacy of living individuals and protect member information, restricted records, and confidential CFS business. Do not publish, share, or use personal information or restricted materials without appropriate permission. See the CFS Privacy Policy for the Society’s fuller privacy practices.
5. Unacceptable Conduct
Unacceptable conduct includes harassment; discriminatory or threatening language; personal attacks; repeated disruption; plagiarism; knowingly false or misleading representations; unauthorized disclosure of confidential information; and retaliation against a person who makes a good-faith report.
6. Reporting Concerns
Concerns may be reported to the Board of Directors or a designated CFS officer. Reports should identify the conduct involved, the date or setting, and any relevant supporting information.
7. Review and Response
CFS will review reports fairly and, when appropriate, may respond with guidance, a warning, limits on participation, removal from a workgroup or CFS online space, or other proportionate action. Retaliation for a good-faith report is prohibited. A person affected by a decision may request Board review.
Questions about this Code of Conduct may be directed to:
board@clayfamilysociety.org