Contracting

Whenever Middlebury takes on an obligation to another party, a written agreement is the best way to prevent misunderstandings. Formats of agreements might include preprinted contract forms (with or without modification), terms and conditions, purchase orders, letters containing the terms of an agreement, leases, and waivers.

Whatever the format, the agreement should comply with the Middlebury Contracting Policy in order to protect Middlebury’s interests and ensure that Middlebury does not assume inappropriate risks (like agreeing to pay another party in full regardless of performance). For certain transactions, the College has its own standard contracts, which provide the College with the greatest protection.

College Employees

College Employees, including officers, faculty and staff, may bind the College only if they have been delegated specific authorization to do so as outlined under III.c.ii. in the Middlebury Contracting Policy. If you are unsure about who should sign a contract, please contact the Assistant Director for Legal Risk Management & Contracting.

Students 

Students do not have authority to bind the College.  Questions about contracting and procurement policies may be addressed to the General Counsel’s Office or Business Services.

Contract Checklist

This Contract Checklist can assist Middlebury employees with negotiating and finalizing written contracts. The checklist outlines important provisions that should be included in most contracts. It also provides examples of model provisions and tips for negotiating provisions that protect Middlebury against risk.

Model Contracts

If you have any questions about which contract to use, please contact Natalie Steen in the Office of the General Counsel at nsteen@middlebury.edu. 

Limited Engagement Agreement 05-19-2025**

Independent Contractor Agreement 03-21-2025

**Please note: The Limited Engagement Agreement is designed for the limited engagement of speakers, guest lecturers, orators, or other individuals at nominal expense to Middlebury. It is to be used for activities of an academic/professional nature presented to the Middlebury community for a very short duration. It is not designed for engagements that will carry on for several days/weeks or have the potential for material risk of physical injury or property damage (including by way of example, but without limitation, engagements involving intense physical activity or the use of heavy or dangerous equipment, installations, scaffolding, suspended lights or cameras, or the erection of sculpture or sets). If you are unsure if proof of insurance is required for your engagement, please contact Matt Curran in the Business Services Office at matthewc@middlebury.edu.