VHFA Event Code of Conduct

Last updated: 7/17/2024

The Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) is committed to providing a professional environment at all of our events, welcoming people from as many diverse backgrounds as possible. We expect our events to be a respectful, harassment-free environment for all people regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, physical ability, nationality, age, socioeconomic status, and belief. VHFA values the diversity of views, expertise, and experiences of all attendees.

In pursuit of those goals, which are applicable at virtual and in-person events, speakers, staff, attendees, and volunteers at VHFA events are expected to abide by the following code of conduct:

Expected behavior

  • Treat everyone with respect and consideration including when discussing and debating ideas and be considerate of the multitude of views and opinions that are different than your own.
  • Follow the rules and policies of the venue.
  • Adhere to instructions provided by speakers and VHFA staff regarding technology and communications, such as muting your mic when you are not speaking. 
  • Report inappropriate behavior to VHFA staff (Leslie Black-Plumeau, Community Relations and Research Director, at 802-652-3429 / [email protected]).

Unacceptable behavior

  • Harassment and intimidation, including any verbal, written (including via texts or on social media), or physical conduct designed to threaten, intimidate, humiliate, or coerce another participant.
  • Discrimination or other actions based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, physical ability, nationality, age, socioeconomic status, or belief.
  • Stalking or unwelcome or surreptitious photography or recording. **Please note: VHFA’s Photography and Recording Policy applies to virtual and in-person meetings, and is as follows: Recording (audio or video) in sessions and events by non-VHFA staff is not permitted. Registration and attendance at or participation in VHFA meetings and other activities constitutes an agreement by the registrant to VHFA’s use and distribution (both now and in the future) of the registrant’s image in photographs, which includes screenshots, or video recordings.
  • Sustained or disrespectful disruption of presentations or events.
  • Unwelcome sexual attention, including but not limited to sexualized comments or jokes, displaying sexually explicit material, inappropriate touching, groping, or sexual advances.

Anyone requested to stop unacceptable behavior is expected to comply immediately. VHFA staff may take any action deemed necessary and appropriate, including immediate removal from the conference. Severe breaches of this Code of Conduct may result in disqualification from participating in future events. Individuals expelled due to violating this Code of Conduct will not be eligible for a refund or other consolation.