In the context of student activities or governance, what must be done if there is a potential conflict of interest?

• A. Conflicts of interest should be kept confidential and not disclosed.
• B. Conflicts of interest require removal from the entire governance body.
• C. Conflicts of interest must be disclosed; individuals may recuse themselves from decisions that affect personal interests.
• D. Conflicts of interest are allowed if not directly related to the decision.

Answer: (C)

When there is a potential conflict of interest in student activities or governance, the key practice is transparency through disclosure. By sharing the conflict with the appropriate governing body, everyone can assess whether personal interests could sway the decision-making process. If a decision could be influenced by those personal interests, the person should recuse themselves from that specific decision or vote so their private stake does not affect the outcome. This approach helps maintain fairness, integrity, and trust in the governance process. Keeping conflicts secret or removing someone from the entire body are not appropriate universal fixes; allowing a conflict if not directly related ignores risk, and removing someone from the whole group is unnecessarily broad. Disclosure paired with recusal provides a balanced, responsible way to handle potential conflicts.