[Moderate revision–posted 4/12/24 (replaces 10/10/17 edition)]
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Operating Policy and Procedure

OP 30.13: Visiting Speakers

DATE: April 12, 2024

PURPOSE: The purpose of this Operating Policy/Procedure (OP) is to ensure that all employees associated with Texas Tech University comply with a single philosophy and procedure in the consideration and use of visiting speakers.

REVIEW: This OP will be reviewed in April of odd-numbered years by the Vice Provost for Student Life, the Vice Provost for Administrative Affairs, and the Vice Chancellor and General Counsel with substantive revisions presented to the Provost and Senior Vice President.

POLICY/PROCEDURE

Section 08.08, Regents' Rules, requires each component institution of the TTU System to develop “policies necessary for the administration of free speech activities, including placing reasonable restrictions upon the time, place, and manner of on-campus speech.”

The authorization for all on-campus speakers will be under the direction and responsibility of the President of the university. The following policy statement is in accordance with Section 08.08, Regents' Rules, regarding on-campus speakers.

1.  Texas Tech University's policy regarding freedom of expression, including visiting speakers, is governed by Texas Tech University System Regulation 07.04.

2.  This OP applies to all persons who wish to speak within the physical confines of Texas Tech University unless such person is a regular employee or student of the TTU System. Members of the Board of Regents are also exempt from the application of this OP.

3.  No individual or group shall be denied the right to speak within the physical confines of Texas Tech University solely because the views sought to be advocated differ from those of the Board of Regents, its members, the Chancellor, the university President, or another officer or employee of the university.

4.  To the extent permitted by applicable law, access to speak within the physical confines of Texas Tech University may be denied to those who advocate imminent illegal action, including but not limited to:

a.    Lawlessness or disregard for the laws of the United States or the State of Texas;

b.    A change to the laws of the United States or the State of Texas by other than constitutionally or statutorily prescribed processes; or

c.    The violent overthrow of the government of the United States or the State of Texas.

In determining the likely conduct or speech of the proposed speaker, appropriate consideration shall be given to relevant past performance of the proposed speaker.

Information about requesting space to host a speaker event may be obtained on the Events FAQ page. Arrangements for the payment of professional fees and expenses for speakers must be made through administrative channels in advance. Payment usually is made through a Check Issuance Request for professional services. These forms are available from Accounts Payable. If expenses involve petty cash, receipts are essential.

OP Categories

01 Chancellor
02 Development
04 Audit Services
10 President
30 Academic and Student Affairs – General
32 Academic Policies – Faculty
34 Academic Policies – Students
36 Academic Programs
40 Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action
48 Communication Services
52 Information Technology
60 Environmental Health and Safety
61 Facilities Management
62 Financial and Accounting
63 General Services
64 Graduate Programs (Faculty and Students)
65 Research Accounting
66 Libraries
67 Mail Services
68 Communications and Marketing
69 Payroll and Tax Services
70 Human Resources
72 Purchasing, Contracting, and Payables
74 Research
76 Security
77 Student Services and Registrar
78 Traffic and Parking
79 Travel
80 Vehicles