TO: Deans, Department Heads, and Directors
DATE: July 25, 2003
SUBJ: Administrative Policy Related to University-Owned Cell Phones

I am writing to advise you of the administrative policy and procedures
related to University-owned cell phones. These documents may be found at http://www.vcu.edu/procurement/Chap_6a.pdf and by scrolling down to
Appendix 1.

The need for this University policy was identified as part of our
Financial, Operational, and Administrative Practices Framework, our
corporate compliance program. Staff determined that our current
practices are not in compliance with Commonwealth of Virginia
requirements. Specifically, the Commonwealth requires that (1) all
University-owned cell phones and related services are to be procured
using the Virginia Information Technologies Agency (VITA) mandatory cell phone contracts and (2) University-owned cell phones are to be used for university business only.

The policy and procedures were developed to bring the institution into
compliance, and I ask that you implement them in your areas. Although
VITA contract rates may not always be as competitive as current vendor
offerings, VCU, as a state institution, must comply with state
regulations. Moreover, we will work with state officials to obtain the
maximum degree of flexibility.

If you have any questions, please contact Procurement and Payment.

Paul W. Timmreck
Senior Vice President for Finance and Administration

Copies:
Dr. Eugene P. Trani
Mr. Donald C. Gehring
Dr. Roderick J. McDavis
Ms. Sue Ann Messmer
Dr. Sheldon M. Retchin
Dr. Marsha R. Torr
Mr. Peter L. Wyeth