Reporting Misconduct (Whistleblower)

The University of California has a responsibility to conduct its affairs ethically and in compliance with the law. If you suspect that a UC employee is engaged in improper governmental activity, you should know that UC has policies on reporting suspected improper governmental activity and protection from retaliation for making such a report.

Improper Governmental Activity

You can blow the whistle when you suspect an improper governmental activity. An improper governmental activity is a violation of state or federal laws and regulations. Examples include:

Unlawful acts such as corruption, bribery, theft or misuse of University property, fraudulent claims, fraud, coercion, willful omission to perform duty, economic waste, gross misconduct, gross incompetence, or gross inefficiency;
Any condition that may significantly threaten the health or safety of employees or the public.

An improper governmental activity has to directly involve the University as either the victim of the improper activity or the perpetrator of the improper activity via the action of an employee.

How To Report

Your Supervisor, Manager, or Department Head
UC Systemwide Whistleblower Hotline
- Online UC Whistleblower Hotline or call 800-403-4744
- The hotline is independently operated to ensure anonymous and confidential reporting
UC Merced's Locally Designated Official (LDO)
- Viola Kinsman, Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer (CECO)
- UC Merced Whistleblower Poster
California State Auditor
- Online Complaint Form or call 800-952-5665
- Report Improper Activity (Poster)
- Report Improper Activity (Brochure)
- For more information about reporting to this outside agency, please see the Whistleblower page on the State Auditor's website

The University prohibits retaliation against employees who in good faith, report suspected ethical, legal or policy violations.