Statement of Respect

The Washington Area Total Rewards Association (“WATRA”) is committed to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment where all members, sponsors, Board members, speakers, and vendors feel respected and valued regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or identity, disability, or any protected status. WATRA respects the value that diverse life experiences bring to the association, and we strive to give voice to all views. To that, the following policies outline WATRA’s commitment to you, our members, and our profession.

Code of Conduct

By accepting to be part of, or partner with, WATRA (through membership, sponsorship, a member of the Board of Directors, speakers, and/or vendors), every individual has a responsibility to adhere to certain rules of behavior and conduct. The purpose is not to restrict an individual’s rights, but rather to be certain that individuals understand what conduct is expected and necessary. When each individual is aware that they can depend on others to follow the rules of conduct, then WATRA continues to serve its mission. All successful associations have rules intended to maintain good working relations, safety, security, and efficiency that must be followed by all individuals. Individuals who violate established criteria, rules, and/or procedures, or who otherwise conduct themselves in a detrimental manner, may be subject to disciplinary proceedings, up to and including, termination of membership/partnership with WATRA.

Code of Ethics

At WATRA, we hold ourselves to the highest ethical and legal standards and have the courage to take responsibility for our words and actions. This Code is not only in place to preserve WATRA's reputation and prevent adverse consequences but also to ensure that our members are able to thrive in an ethical and constructive environment. Abiding by our Code of Conduct and high legal and ethical standards has allowed us to gain respect in the industry and successfully pursue our mission. It is expected that all individuals abide by these policies to ensure that this trend is continued. An individual’s actions under the Code are significant indications of sound judgment and competence, and an important element in evaluations for continued membership and partnership.

Ethics Reporting & Open-Door Policy

Individuals who have questions about ethics should contact the Board President or any member of the Board of Directors. WATRA’s open-door policy gives individuals the freedom to approach any member of the Board with ethical questions or concerns without fear of retaliation. Individuals can contact the Board via WATRA’s main email: admin@watradc.org. Individuals who report a concern are treated with the maximum confidentiality possible. All reports made in good faith will be treated promptly and professionally and without the risk of retaliation or retribution.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (D, E, & I)

The collective sum of the individual differences, life experiences, knowledge, inventiveness, creativity, self-expression, unique capabilities, and talent of our members and speakers enrich the programming and development of all members and the total rewards community. WATRA’s diversity initiatives are applicable – but not limited – to our practices and policies on recruitment and selection, professional development and training, and social and networking programs built on the premise of diversity, equity, and inclusion that encourages and enforces:

• Respectful, professional communication and cooperation between all members, sponsors, and vendors.

• Collaboration and participation, permitting the representation of all groups and employee perspectives.

• Individual and corporate contributions to the communities we serve to promote a greater understanding and respect for diversity. All individuals have a responsibility to always treat others with dignity and respect. 

All individuals are expected to exhibit conduct that reflects inclusion during communications, at functions, and all other WATRA-sponsored and participative events.

Any individual found to have exhibited any inappropriate conduct or behavior that violates these policies (regardless of expressed intent) will be subject to disciplinary proceedings (consisting of Board review), up to and including termination of membership and/or partnership (determined on a case-by-case basis).

Individuals who believe they have been subjected to any kind of conduct/behavior that conflicts with WATRA policy and initiatives should seek assistance from the WATRA President or any Board of Directors member immediately.