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    Community Values

    Community Values
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    Community Values
    participants at an outdoor social gathering during the Global Alumni Leadership Summit at Harvard Business School
    Community Values
    Creating an environment of trust and mutual respect.
    Learn More
    participants at an outdoor social gathering during the Global Alumni Leadership Summit at Harvard Business School
    Community Values
    Creating an environment of trust and mutual respect.
    Learn More

    Overview

    At Harvard Business School, we believe that leadership and values are at the heart of our educational mission: to make HBS a model of the highest standards in lifelong learning and the best practices in global business. Our guiding principles of trust and mutual respect, honesty and integrity, and personal accountability are essential to whatever we do, wherever we are, and with whomever we meet. To that end, we have created a set of Community Values, policies, and safety and security guidelines for all members of the HBS community.

    The mission of Harvard Business School is to educate leaders who make a difference in the world. Achieving this mission starts with creating an environment of trust and mutual respect, free expression and inquiry, and a commitment to truth, excellence, and lifelong learning. At Harvard Business School, we view diversity as a source of strength that contributes to a dynamic, creative learning and work environment. Bringing people together from all political, religious, ethnic, and social backgrounds, in the spirit of academic freedom, creates an environment for a full exchange of ideas.

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    The HBS learning model is special in many ways. It is designed to enable participants and faculty to teach and learn from one another through a process of active participation. This participation in shared learning comprises a powerful foundation for adult learning. Our model requires everyone to engage with the process, and to participate in all its elements: individual preparation of all materials, small-group discussions to explore and expand on this initial work, full engagement in class, and post-class reflection. These values are defined more fully in our Community Values and Learning Culture Defined document.

    The following Community Values are accepted by all members of the HBS community including Executive Education program participants, MBA and Doctoral students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Respect for the rights, differences, and dignity of others

    • Respect for the rights, differences, and dignity of others
    • Honesty and integrity in dealing with all members of the community
    • Accountability for personal behavior

    HBS can and should be a living model of these values. To this end, community members have a personal responsibility to integrate these values into every aspect of their experience and during all program engagement (inclusive of any optional online social groups). Through our personal commitment to these values, we can create an environment in which all can achieve their full potential. During the program, you may receive feedback regarding your adherence to these values from faculty, staff or fellow participants.

    Overview Dropdown down

    Overview Dropdown down

    At Harvard Business School, we believe that leadership and values are at the heart of our educational mission: to make HBS a model of the highest standards in lifelong learning and the best practices in global business. Our guiding principles of trust and mutual respect, honesty and integrity, and personal accountability are essential to whatever we do, wherever we are, and with whomever we meet. To that end, we have created a set of Community Values, policies, and safety and security guidelines for all members of the HBS community.

    The mission of Harvard Business School is to educate leaders who make a difference in the world. Achieving this mission starts with creating an environment of trust and mutual respect, free expression and inquiry, and a commitment to truth, excellence, and lifelong learning. At Harvard Business School, we view diversity as a source of strength that contributes to a dynamic, creative learning and work environment. Bringing people together from all political, religious, ethnic, and social backgrounds, in the spirit of academic freedom, creates an environment for a full exchange of ideas.

    The HBS learning model is special in many ways. It is designed to enable participants and faculty to teach and learn from one another through a process of active participation. This participation in shared learning comprises a powerful foundation for adult learning. Our model requires everyone to engage with the process, and to participate in all its elements: individual preparation of all materials, small-group discussions to explore and expand on this initial work, full engagement in class, and post-class reflection. These values are defined more fully in our Community Values and Learning Culture Defined document.

    The following Community Values are accepted by all members of the HBS community including Executive Education program participants, MBA and Doctoral students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Respect for the rights, differences, and dignity of others

    • Respect for the rights, differences, and dignity of others
    • Honesty and integrity in dealing with all members of the community
    • Accountability for personal behavior

    HBS can and should be a living model of these values. To this end, community members have a personal responsibility to integrate these values into every aspect of their experience and during all program engagement (inclusive of any optional online social groups). Through our personal commitment to these values, we can create an environment in which all can achieve their full potential. During the program, you may receive feedback regarding your adherence to these values from faculty, staff or fellow participants.

    Values DefinedCollapse All

    Respect for the rights, differences, and dignity of othersRespect for the rights, differences, and dignity of others
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    If each of us makes an honest effort to ensure that we treat others with professional respect and dignity, all of us will enjoy the maximum possible benefit from working and learning together.

    • All members of the community are entitled to respect. All individuals are expected, in their interactions with others, to demonstrate respect for each person's worth, dignity, and capacity to contribute.
    • Discrimination can discourage a participant from active contribution both in the class and during other program activities. It is important to be attentive to interactions with others and be diligent in recognizing discriminatory behavior, and in speaking up when it is observed.
    Honesty and integrity in dealing with all members of the communityHonesty and integrity in dealing with all members of the community
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    We aim to foster an environment where individuals can have open discussion, reflect on their thinking, and learn from one another. This can only happen when we create an environment in which we adhere to moral and ethical principles.

    • During the program you may engage in exercises where you are asked to share personal and professional information to deepen your learning experience. When confidential information is shared, we expect you will not share it with anyone not present in that discussion within or outside of the program.
    • In the HBS classroom, it is common practice that participants address each other and our faculty and staff by their first or given names; this is not intended to be disrespectful or discourteous.
    Accountability for personal behaviorAccountability for personal behavior
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    Because inappropriate conduct can arise from a lack of understanding of community norms, we offer general guidelines to participants to clarify the School's standards and your obligations to meet them.

    • The faculty, staff, and fellow participants you will work with are professionals, and your relationship with them should be professional at all times.
    • Staff and faculty often socialize with participants in the context of program activities. This kind of friendly social interaction should not be interpreted as an invitation, or signal of availability for, a more personal relationship.
    • All members of the Harvard Business School community are entitled to work in an environment that is free from threat, harassment, abuse, or discrimination. Disrespectful behavior, sexual harassment, or racial/ethnic slurs should be reported to the Program Director immediately, as this behavior will not be tolerated.
    • The HBS Learning Model (which includes the case method, case preparation, the Executive Education classroom environment, and group learning) depends upon each participant being an active contributor in all aspects of learning. To the extent that a participant is absent from class and/or scheduled group meetings, his/her learning suffers as does the learning of other colleagues. Therefore, unexcused absences, lack of preparation, or inconsistent participation could result in program dismissal.
    • If you are facing challenges with fully engaging in the program due to a disability or language barrier, please speak, confidentially, with your program director to determine if an accommodation would be appropriate.

    Values Defined Dropdown down

    Values Defined Dropdown down

    Respect for the rights, differences, and dignity of others

    If each of us makes an honest effort to ensure that we treat others with professional respect and dignity, all of us will enjoy the maximum possible benefit from working and learning together.

    • All members of the community are entitled to respect. All individuals are expected, in their interactions with others, to demonstrate respect for each person's worth, dignity, and capacity to contribute.
    • Discrimination can discourage a participant from active contribution both in the class and during other program activities. It is important to be attentive to interactions with others and be diligent in recognizing discriminatory behavior, and in speaking up when it is observed.

    Honesty and integrity in dealing with all members of the community

    We aim to foster an environment where individuals can have open discussion, reflect on their thinking, and learn from one another. This can only happen when we create an environment in which we adhere to moral and ethical principles.

    • During the program you may engage in exercises where you are asked to share personal and professional information to deepen your learning experience. When confidential information is shared, we expect you will not share it with anyone not present in that discussion within or outside of the program.
    • In the HBS classroom, it is common practice that participants address each other and our faculty and staff by their first or given names; this is not intended to be disrespectful or discourteous.

    Accountability for personal behavior

    Because inappropriate conduct can arise from a lack of understanding of community norms, we offer general guidelines to participants to clarify the School's standards and your obligations to meet them.

    • The faculty, staff, and fellow participants you will work with are professionals, and your relationship with them should be professional at all times.
    • Staff and faculty often socialize with participants in the context of program activities. This kind of friendly social interaction should not be interpreted as an invitation, or signal of availability for, a more personal relationship.
    • All members of the Harvard Business School community are entitled to work in an environment that is free from threat, harassment, abuse, or discrimination. Disrespectful behavior, sexual harassment, or racial/ethnic slurs should be reported to the Program Director immediately, as this behavior will not be tolerated.
    • The HBS Learning Model (which includes the case method, case preparation, the Executive Education classroom environment, and group learning) depends upon each participant being an active contributor in all aspects of learning. To the extent that a participant is absent from class and/or scheduled group meetings, his/her learning suffers as does the learning of other colleagues. Therefore, unexcused absences, lack of preparation, or inconsistent participation could result in program dismissal.
    • If you are facing challenges with fully engaging in the program due to a disability or language barrier, please speak, confidentially, with your program director to determine if an accommodation would be appropriate.

    Sample ViolationsCollapse All

    Detracting from the learning processDetracting from the learning process
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    • Disruptive classroom and/or discussion group behaviors
    • Absence from class
    • Being late to class
    • Being unprepared for group discussions and/or class
    • Using mobile devices/technology in unpermitted or non-class-enhancing ways
    • Not participating in living-group study sessions and class exercises
    Inappropriate behavior/social activityInappropriate behavior/social activity
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    • Disrespecting other members of the HBS community (e.g., staff, fellow participants, students)
    • Excessive alcohol use
    • Destruction of HBS property
    • Smoking indoors
    • Loud/disruptive gatherings
    • Lack of adherence to HBS policies (listed on the program website)
    Harassment/violenceHarassment/violence
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    (Title IX, a federal civil rights law prohibiting gender discrimination may apply. Visit the Harvard website for more information on Harvard’s position on gender-based discrimination)

    • Inappropriate behavior or comments (verbal or written) based on gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or ethnicity
    • Unwanted touching; sexual threats or acts of violence
    • Lewd or sexually suggestive comments, jokes, innuendoes, or gestures
    • Sexual assault
    Misrepresentation/failure to discloseMisrepresentation/failure to disclose
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    • Misrepresenting your identity (e.g., when sending an email)
    • Misrepresenting your personal record (e.g., application, employment, academic, criminal) to HBS officials or others
    Financial & other policiesFinancial & other policies
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    • Non-payment of Harvard bills
    • Unauthorized use of HBS or Harvard name or resources

    Sample Violations Dropdown down

    Sample Violations Dropdown down

    Detracting from the learning process

    • Disruptive classroom and/or discussion group behaviors
    • Absence from class
    • Being late to class
    • Being unprepared for group discussions and/or class
    • Using mobile devices/technology in unpermitted or non-class-enhancing ways
    • Not participating in living-group study sessions and class exercises

    Inappropriate behavior/social activity

    • Disrespecting other members of the HBS community (e.g., staff, fellow participants, students)
    • Excessive alcohol use
    • Destruction of HBS property
    • Smoking indoors
    • Loud/disruptive gatherings
    • Lack of adherence to HBS policies (listed on the program website)

    Harassment/violence

    (Title IX, a federal civil rights law prohibiting gender discrimination may apply. Visit the Harvard website for more information on Harvard’s position on gender-based discrimination)

    • Inappropriate behavior or comments (verbal or written) based on gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or ethnicity
    • Unwanted touching; sexual threats or acts of violence
    • Lewd or sexually suggestive comments, jokes, innuendoes, or gestures
    • Sexual assault

    Misrepresentation/failure to disclose

    • Misrepresenting your identity (e.g., when sending an email)
    • Misrepresenting your personal record (e.g., application, employment, academic, criminal) to HBS officials or others

    Financial & other policies

    • Non-payment of Harvard bills
    • Unauthorized use of HBS or Harvard name or resources

    Disciplinary Process

    Our Community Values embody our aspiration to be a model of leadership, honor, and integrity, as well as our commitment to truth and excellence. These values are intended to create an environment of trust, respect, free expression, and inquiry.

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    When an Executive Education participant is alleged to have violated our Community Values, we have a well-developed process for evaluating violations and imposing sanctions if warranted. The guiding principles for those charged with administering the Executive Education disciplinary process are:

    • The disciplinary process and its outcomes should reflect our Community Values and hold participants to a standard that embodies the high aspirations we espouse.
    • The disciplinary process should comply with the law and ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
    • The disciplinary process should be fair to the participant(s) being reviewed. Participants should understand the violations in question, the evidence against them, and the possible sanctions that could be applied.
    • The disciplinary process should protect the rights of the complainant [the individual(s) alleging wrongdoing] and the respondent [the individual(s) accused of wrongdoing].
    • Information on our disciplinary process should be easily accessible to all participants.

    Each case that arises is unique and requires discretion in handling. In all cases, the individuals responsible for administering the disciplinary process will use their best efforts and judgment, employing the guiding principles stated above, in determining how to proceed. Depending on the circumstances, the Executive Education Senior Associate Dean, Executive Director, and Community Values Liaison have the ability to modify these procedures, and will notify the parties involved in such instances.

    For purposes of disciplinary reviews, the preponderance of evidence standard will be used to determine whether a violation of HBS policies and Community Values has occurred.

    Disciplinary Process Dropdown down

    Disciplinary Process Dropdown down

    Our Community Values embody our aspiration to be a model of leadership, honor, and integrity, as well as our commitment to truth and excellence. These values are intended to create an environment of trust, respect, free expression, and inquiry.

    When an Executive Education participant is alleged to have violated our Community Values, we have a well-developed process for evaluating violations and imposing sanctions if warranted. The guiding principles for those charged with administering the Executive Education disciplinary process are:

    • The disciplinary process and its outcomes should reflect our Community Values and hold participants to a standard that embodies the high aspirations we espouse.
    • The disciplinary process should comply with the law and ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
    • The disciplinary process should be fair to the participant(s) being reviewed. Participants should understand the violations in question, the evidence against them, and the possible sanctions that could be applied.
    • The disciplinary process should protect the rights of the complainant [the individual(s) alleging wrongdoing] and the respondent [the individual(s) accused of wrongdoing].
    • Information on our disciplinary process should be easily accessible to all participants.

    Each case that arises is unique and requires discretion in handling. In all cases, the individuals responsible for administering the disciplinary process will use their best efforts and judgment, employing the guiding principles stated above, in determining how to proceed. Depending on the circumstances, the Executive Education Senior Associate Dean, Executive Director, and Community Values Liaison have the ability to modify these procedures, and will notify the parties involved in such instances.

    For purposes of disciplinary reviews, the preponderance of evidence standard will be used to determine whether a violation of HBS policies and Community Values has occurred.

    Who to Contact

    The School can become aware of a possible violation of Community Values and HBS policies from a variety of sources including faculty, staff, fellow participants, or other members of the Harvard community.

    Read More
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    If you have any questions regarding community values or wish to discuss a possible violation please contact members of the program team (you may stop by the program office or go to your program website for contact information):

    • Program Director
    • Program Manager
    • Faculty Chair

    In Addition You May Contact:

    Executive Director
    Nancy DellaRocco (ndellarocco@hbs.edu, 617.496.9753)

    Senior Associate Dean, Executive Education
    Luis Viceira (lviceira@hbs.edu, 617.495.6331)

    Senior Associate Dean for Culture and Community
    Janice Hammond (jhammond@hbs.edu, 617.495.6620)

    Director, HBS Human Resources and Officer for Title IX Policy on Sexual Harassment
    Sally Robinson (srobinson@hbs.edu, 617.495.6066)

    Who to Contact Dropdown down

    Who to Contact Dropdown down

    The School can become aware of a possible violation of Community Values and HBS policies from a variety of sources including faculty, staff, fellow participants, or other members of the Harvard community.

    If you have any questions regarding community values or wish to discuss a possible violation please contact members of the program team (you may stop by the program office or go to your program website for contact information):

    • Program Director
    • Program Manager
    • Faculty Chair

    In Addition You May Contact:

    Executive Director
    Nancy DellaRocco (ndellarocco@hbs.edu, 617.496.9753)

    Senior Associate Dean, Executive Education
    Luis Viceira (lviceira@hbs.edu, 617.495.6331)

    Senior Associate Dean for Culture and Community
    Janice Hammond (jhammond@hbs.edu, 617.495.6620)

    Director, HBS Human Resources and Officer for Title IX Policy on Sexual Harassment
    Sally Robinson (srobinson@hbs.edu, 617.495.6066)

    participants at an outdoor social gathering during the Global Alumni Leadership Summit at Harvard Business School
    Community Values
    Creating an environment of trust and mutual respect.
    Learn More
    participants at an outdoor social gathering during the Global Alumni Leadership Summit at Harvard Business School
    Community Values
    Creating an environment of trust and mutual respect.
    Learn More

    View Frequently Asked Questions

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