Delegation of Authority

The Delegation of Authority is established under Regent Policy Document 13-1, which authorizes Chancellors to delegate contract signature authority to designated content-area experts on campus. This framework enables UW-Whitewater and other UW System institutions to operate efficiently while maintaining appropriate oversight and accountability in the execution of agreements and contracts.

In contrast, Designations of Authority reflect operational or functional responsibilities assigned through other applicable University of Wisconsin System policies, Regent Policy Documents, or institutional authorities, and do not originate from RPD 13-1.

View the most recent Delegation of Authority document to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does UW-Whitewater have a Delegation of Authority?

UW-Whitewater maintains a Delegation of Authority to support efficient operations while maintaining appropriate oversight and compliance with applicable policies and statutes governing university agreements and contracts.

By clearly defining who is authorized to sign contracts and carry out specific operational responsibilities on behalf of the university, the Delegation of Authority helps reduce risk and ensures decisions are made by individuals with the appropriate expertise and authority to support the university’s short-term and long-term success.

What is the difference between a signature authority and designated authority?

Signature authority is established under Chapters 16 and 36 of the Wisconsin Statutes and Board of Regents Policy Document 13-1. It formally authorizes specific contracting and purchasing positions to approve and sign purchasing agreements and contracts within a defined scope, supporting the university’s educational and research mission.

Designated authority is a formal assignment of responsibility to specific positions to manage defined operational areas of the university. Individuals with designated authority are responsible for ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, as well as UW System and UW-Whitewater policies and procedures.

A key difference is that a designated authority may be sub-designated, provided the sub-designation is documented in writing and approved by the appropriate Vice Chancellor overseeing the unit. Signature authority cannot be sub-delegated.

Where can I view the most current version of the Delegation of Authority?

The most current version of the Delegation of Authority is available on the Policy Library website. View the most up-to-date Delegation of Authority (Policy #003) document.

How often does the Delegation of Authority get reviewed?

The Delegation of Authority is reviewed annually by the Office of Compliance and Risk Management. Any updates are made to the document and reuploaded to the Policy Library. Official copies are also maintained by the Office of the Chancellor at UW-Whitewater and the Office of the President at UW System Administration.

Who should I send contracts or designations that are not specifically addressed in the Delegation of Authority?

Any contract or designation not specifically addressed in the Delegation of Authority should be sent to the Vice Chancellor for Finance & Administrative Affairs, Brenda Jones, for review and approval.

Who should I contact to request modifications to the Delegation of Authority?

Requests for modifications, such as changes caused by a new hire or employee departure, should be directed to the Chief of Staff & Senior Strategy and Compliance Officer, Gabby Dralle (dralleg@uww.edu), or the Compliance and Risk Manager, Thomas Lisowski (lisowskt@uww.edu).

Who should I contact if I have doubts about whether a contract or document needs an official university signature?

If you are unsure whether a contract or document requires an official university signature, please contact the Chief of Staff & Senior Strategy and Compliance Officer, Gabby Dralle (dralleg@uww.edu), or the Compliance and Risk Manager, Thomas Lisowski (lisowskt@uww.edu).