Governance policies
Codes of Ethics
Codes of Ethics have been written by both the American Association of Museums (AAM) and the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH), and written codes exist for many professions to which trustees and staff members of this Society belong. While these codes are thoughtful and complete, no single code can cover all of the issues facing a complex institution like the Virginia Historical Society, with its educational, collection and large number of ancillary interests. It is appropriate, therefore, to tailor a code to the particular needs of this institution. The great majority of this document is excerpted from the 1978 edition of MUSEUM ETHICS published by the American Association of Museums, but it has been adapted to meet the specific demands of the Virginia Historical Society as it exists today. A code of ethics must be broad enough to permit interpretation and flexible enough to evolve or change as the structure of the Society changes over time.
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Records Retention and Disposal Policy
The VHS Records Retention and Disposal Policy is designed to provide parameters for the retention of records generated by the various departments and officers of the Virginia Historical Society, as well as guidelines for the determination of what records may be destroyed at what times and in what manner.
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Whistleblower Policy
The VHS's Code of Ethics and Conduct ("Code") requires trustees, officers, and employees to observe high standards of professional and personal ethics in the conduct of their duties. As employees and representatives of the VHS, we must practice honesty and integrity in fulfilling our responsibilities and complying with all applicable laws and regulations.
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Gift Acceptance Policy
The Virginia Historical Society is a Virginia non-profit organization that has been recognized as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The VHS welcomes the interest of prospective donors and encourages gifts that will further its mission. The mission of the Virginia Historical Society, the Center for Virginia History, is to collect, preserve, and interpret the commonwealth’s past for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations.
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