University of Mount Union
OP-15: Inclusive and Local Purchasing

http://portal.mountunion.edu/CampusOffice/Business%20Office/polices_procedures/Documents/SUPPLIER%20DIVERSITY%20PROGRAM.pdf
University of Mount Union
Supplier Diversity Program
1.0 Purpose
1.1 The purpose of this policy is to enhance the successful business
relationships between Minority, Woman and Physically-Challenged
Owned Business Enterprises (M/W/DBE’s), and the University of
Mount Union.
1.2 Mount Union is committed to actively seeking goods and services
from minority, women, and physically-challenged owned businesses.
We strive to increase the visibility of the Supplier Diversity Program
within the University supply base.
2.0 Minority/Women-Owned Business Classifications Definitions
2.1 Minority Business Enterprise – An enterprise that is at least 51%
owned, operated, or controlled by a minority or a group of minority
members, or, in the case of a publicly owned business, at least 51% of
the stock is owned by a minority or a group of minority members.
Minority Group Members – African Americans, Hispanic Americans,
Native Americans, Asian/Pacific Americans and Asian/Indian
Americans.
2.2 Physically-Challenged – An enterprise that, regardless of ethnic
background, is at least 51% owned, operated, or controlled by an
individual who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially
limits one or more major life activities; there is a record of such
impairment; or is regarded as having such an impairment.
2.3 Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) – An enterprise that,
regardless of ethnic background, is at least 51% owned, operated, or
controlled by a woman, or a group of women, or, in the case of a
publicly-owned business, at least 51% of the stock is owned by a
woman or group of women.
2.4 Certification Requirements – Validation of a supplier’s diverse status
is preferred for participation in the Mount Union Supplier Diversity
Program. Certification documents from the following qualified
agencies are acceptable:
National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC)
National Assoc. of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBENC)
City, State, or Federal Certification Agencies
3.0 Policy
3.1 It is the Policy of Mount Union, through it’s Supplier Diversity
Program, to increase the business opportunities for Minority, Women
and Physically-Challenged Business Enterprises (M/W/DBE’s). The
University’s commitment is to maximize M/W/DBE participation
through the development of mutually beneficial business relationships
with such firms. The effort is University-wide and includes traditional
procurement and contracted services as well as subcontracting and
joint venture activities.
3.2 It is the responsibility of all University departments, along with the
Purchasing Department, to seek out these diverse businesses and take
the steps necessary to assure that these businesses receive a fair
opportunity in the economic prospects available.
3.3 The program is intended to build an awareness of the University’s
Supplier Diversity efforts and to provide opportunities for Minority,
Women and Physically-Challenged Business Enterprises. While the
University does not practice set asides, it makes every effort to
provide opportunities and assistance to M/W/DBE suppliers to do
business with the Universtiy.
3.4 This program is developed, not as a response to outside regulatory
agencies or mandatory requirements, but as an effort to recognize and
support programs which can enhance the minority communities.
4.0 Function/Evaluation/Assessment
4.1 In support of this initiative Mount Union will:
Increase departmental awareness of the University
supplier diversity objectives and opportunities.
Educate potential diversity suppliers about how to
conduct business with the University.
Provide reasonable business opportunity to minorityowned,
women-owned, and physically-challenged
business enterprises (M/W/DBE) to participate as
suppliers, contractors and subcontractors for the
University.
Educate the University Community so that all
departments will become fully aware of this policy and
participate in increasing purchases from M/W/DBE’s
Monitor and record all expenditures with M/W/DBE and
report results on annual basis.
The Purchasing Department directs and supports the University’s ongoing
commitment to encourage business opportunities and diversity among it’s
suppliers.

Data received from Shawn Bagley, Purchasing Agent, entered by Leah Graham