Tethys Summit 2025 Code of Conduct

Purpose

At the Tethys Geoscience Foundation, we are committed to advancing open-source Earth science tools that serve communities worldwide. We believe in creating a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful environment where all participants can learn, collaborate, and innovate together. This Code of Conduct establishes our expectations for behavior and applies to all attendees, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, organizers, and participants at Tethys Summit 2025. We encourage everyone to actively contribute to creating a positive and safe experience for all.

Our Values

Tethys Summit embodies the collaborative spirit of open-source communities. We value:

  • Inclusivity: Welcoming participants from all backgrounds, experience levels, and perspectives
  • Respect: Treating all individuals with dignity and consideration
  • Collaboration: Working together to advance Earth science solutions
  • Learning: Supporting each other’s growth and development
  • Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and knowledge sharing

Expected Behavior

We expect all participants to:

  • Conduct themselves professionally and courteously at all times
  • Dress and behave in a professional manner
  • Respect the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of fellow participants
  • Use inclusive language and avoid assumptions about others’ knowledge or experience
  • Be mindful of personal space and observe common courtesy in all interactions
  • Respect the boundaries of others—if someone asks you to stop interacting with them, comply immediately
  • Focus on constructive dialogue and feedback during presentations and discussions
  • Follow all venue rules and local laws
  • Report any concerning behavior to Tethys Summit organizers promptly

Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviors are considered inappropriate and will not be tolerated:

Harassment and Discrimination: Any form of harassment, intimidation, or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, nationality, disability, physical appearance, or any other protected characteristic.

Disruptive Conduct: Behavior that interferes with others’ participation, including but not limited to:

  • Inappropriate or offensive language, images, or materials
  • Deliberate intimidation, stalking, or unwanted following
  • Sustained disruption of talks, workshops, or other activities
  • Inappropriate physical contact or invasion of personal space

Professional Misconduct:

  • Misrepresentation of credentials, affiliations, or work
  • Plagiarism or failure to properly attribute others’ contributions
  • Violation of intellectual property rights
  • Damage to venue property or equipment

Online Conduct: During virtual sessions or on conference platforms:

  • Sharing inappropriate content in chat or video
  • Any disruptive online behavior
  • Recording sessions without explicit permission

Consequences

Participants who engage in unacceptable behavior may face:

  • Verbal or written warnings from organizers
  • Removal from specific sessions or activities
  • Expulsion from the entire conference without refund
  • Prohibition from future Tethys Foundation events
  • Reporting to relevant authorities if illegal activities are involved

All decisions regarding code of conduct violations rest with Tethys Summit organizers and are final.

Reporting Procedures

If you experience or witness unacceptable behavior:

Immediate Safety Concerns: Contact venue security or local emergency services

Code of Conduct Violations:

  • Approach any Tethys Summit organizer or volunteer (identifiable by conference badges)
  • Send an email to info@tethysgeoscience.org

What to Include in Reports:

  • Description of the incident
  • Names of individuals involved (if known)
  • Time and location of the incident
  • Any witnesses present
  • Any supporting documentation (screenshots, photos, etc.)

All reports will be handled confidentially and investigated promptly. We are committed to protecting the privacy of those who report incidents in good faith.

Implementation

This Code of Conduct applies to all Tethys Summit 2025 activities, including:

  • Conference sessions and workshops
  • Networking events and social activities
  • Online platforms and virtual spaces
  • Informal gatherings and conversations related to the conference

The Code of Conduct remains in effect throughout the entire conference period and extends to conference-related activities that occur outside the main venue.

Acknowledgment

By participating in Tethys Summit 2025, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. We thank you for helping create a welcoming and productive environment where all participants can contribute to advancing open-source Earth science solutions.

For questions about this Code of Conduct, please contact us at info@tethysgeoscience.org.

This Code of Conduct is a living document and may be updated as needed. The most current version will always be available on the Tethys Summit website.

Tethys Summit 2025 | July 14-15, 2025 | Tampa, Florida