Signature and Purchase Authority

SIGNATURE AND PURCHASING AUTHORITY AT MOREHOUSE COLLEGE 

Employees of Morehouse College must understand that unless such authority has been explicitly delegated by the Board or the President, they are not authorized to execute contracts or other binding agreements in the name of Morehouse College. It is critical to recognize that contracts executed without proper authority are considered null and void, potentially exposing the involved employee to personal liability. Currently, signature authority to execute contracts on behalf of the College rests with the Board of Trustees, the President, and the Vice-Presidents. 

A contract, for the purposes of this directive, is defined as any written (and in certain circumstances, oral) agreement between Morehouse College and an external or third-party entity, designed to create obligations that are enforceable or legally binding, regardless of the nomenclature used to describe the agreement. This broad definition underscores the importance of consulting with the Office of General Counsel and/or the Procurement Department prior to entering into any agreement that could commit the College to a course of action or obligate its resources. 

In light of the foregoing, the College approved a comprehensive Procurement Policy that outlines the procedures and thresholds for purchasing goods and services, including the specific delegation of purchasing and contract-signing authority. This policy serves as a guiding document to ensure compliance with state and federal laws, promote fiscal responsibility, and safeguard the College's assets. The Procurement Policy details the roles and responsibilities of College employees in the procurement process, delineates authority limits, and sets forth the requirements for competitive bidding and vendor selection. 

All members of the Morehouse College community are encouraged to review the Procurement Policy to fully understand the protocols and limitations surrounding purchasing and contract negotiations. Adherence to this policy is mandatory for all procurement activities to ensure they are conducted transparently, efficiently, and within the scope of delegated authority. This policy not only protects the College and its employees from potential legal and financial repercussions but also supports our ongoing commitment to ethical business practices and sound governance. 

By strictly following these established guidelines and seeking the necessary approvals before entering into contractual agreements, we uphold the integrity and fiscal health of Morehouse College, ensuring that our resources are utilized judiciously and in alignment with our mission and values.