KSU Foundation funds may be used for payment to vendors or individuals for expenses related to meals and entertainment incurred while conducting official University business. All such expenditures paid from the Foundation must be in accordance with the governing fund agreement (donor intent) for that fund. The following information must be documented in Financial Edge:
- What Foundation account is to be used?
- Where and when did the event occur?
- What was the business-related purpose of the event?
- How did the event benefit the University?
- Who was in attendance and what is their relationship with KSU? (Student, Donor, Faculty/Staff, Board Member, Trustee, Corporate Partner, Vendor)
- What role did those in attendance have in the success of the event?
Each respective Vice President, Dean, or Director is responsible for determining whether each expense is appropriate, moderate and in support of furthering institutional goals or programs before submission.
In most cases, all arrangements for meals or catering should be made using reasonably acceptable practices in accordance with the State of Georgia’s per-diem guidelines. All on- campus catered events must adhere to the Kennesaw State University Catering Policy. All requests for reimbursements using outside vendors must follow university policy and should include a copy of the exemption form when necessary. http://events.kennesaw.edu/event- resources/catering.php. All attendees should be directly involved in the business purpose related to the meal and should not include spouses (unless their attendance has a bona fide business purpose that directly benefits the University). Business meals should include tips within a reasonable amount. Up to 20% of meal tips are allowed for reimbursement, this is calculated before any discounts and after tax.
In the case of potential employee search committee sponsored meals, additional guests may be included. Reimbursements for all in-town meals involving non-University personnel are allowed so long as there is a documented business purpose benefiting the college or department Understanding that spouses often help develop a significant relationship with donors, expenses incurred on behalf of spouses/partners should be approved by your supervisor prior to occurrence.
As a general guideline associated with hosting meals, the cost of the meal can be determined by the type of event you are hosting, and the business purpose related to the meal. Exceeding the allowable guideline amounts may be deemed permissible so long as it is appropriately documented and appropriate for the type of event held. (Meal Expense Grid on pg. 6).