Dr. Megan Weinkauf’s Role on the City of Tulsa Ethics Advisory Committee

Highlighting Ethics in Action: Dr. Megan Weinkauf’s Role on the City of Tulsa Ethics Advisory Committee

Dr. Megan Weinkauf, an assistant professor of management at Northeastern State University (NSU) College of Business and Technology, has been appointed to the City of Tulsa Ethics Advisory Committee, where she brings her extensive expertise in ethics, leadership, and community engagement to this critical role. A respected scholar, educator, and community advocate, Dr. Weinkauf exemplifies a commitment to ethical governance, transparency, and public service.

Why Ethics and Community Engagement Matter for NSU Business and Technology Students

At the NSU College of Business and Technology, students are preparing to enter a complex and rapidly changing world where ethical decision-making is paramount. Dr. Weinkauf emphasizes that understanding ethics is not only about avoiding pitfalls but also about becoming leaders who drive positive change in their organizations and communities.

"Ethics provide the foundation for trust, which is essential in every relationship—whether in business, technology, or public service," Dr. Weinkauf explained. "Our students must understand how their decisions impact stakeholders and how to navigate the ethical complexities they will face in their careers."

In addition to classroom learning, Dr. Weinkauf encourages students to actively engage in their communities, seeing firsthand the challenges and opportunities that exist. Through service-learning projects, internships, and participation in events like the Ethics Bowl, students develop a deep understanding of how to apply ethical principles in real-world situations.

"Serving in the community allows students to connect their academic knowledge with practical action," Dr. Weinkauf said. "It teaches empathy, leadership, and the importance of giving back. These experiences shape students into professionals who value integrity and are dedicated to making a meaningful impact."

Dr. Weinkauf also highlights the importance of aligning professional success with personal values. By instilling these lessons in students, the College of Business and Technology ensures graduates are not only skilled professionals but also ethical leaders equipped to tackle challenges responsibly and inspire trust in their organizations.

A Multifaceted Perspective

With a professional background spanning accounting, auditing, leadership, marketing, higher education, aerospace and defense manufacturing, and entrepreneurial ventures, Dr. Weinkauf brings a comprehensive and nuanced approach to her work on the Ethics Advisory Committee. "I focus on emphasizing transparency, accountability, strategic thinking, and innovation while nurturing continuous learning and ensuring regulatory compliance," she shared. "By working collaboratively, we can effectively serve the citizens of Tulsa and uphold their trust in local government."

Defining Ethics in Public Service

Ethics, as defined by the City of Tulsa Ethics Handbook, is "a set of moral principles or values that establishes rules and standards of personal conduct." Dr. Weinkauf aligns deeply with this definition, emphasizing the importance of fairness, impartiality, and integrity. "Through ethical standards, we evaluate human action," she noted. "In public service, ethics involves not only fairness but also a duty to the general public. This foundation creates a level playing field and strengthens trust in government operations."

Bridging Academia, Research, and Public Service

At NSU, Dr. Weinkauf teaches Business Ethics and leads the university's Ethics Bowl team, preparing students to navigate complex ethical dilemmas and engage in meaningful discourse on societal issues. Her academic pursuits extend into groundbreaking research on trauma in the workplace, where she is developing a trauma-informed leadership model. This research seeks to empower leaders as healing agents, fostering resilience and improving organizational culture.

"Trauma-informed leadership goes beyond traditional management practices," Dr. Weinkauf explained. "It requires leaders to acknowledge the unseen challenges their teams may face and to cultivate environments where healing and productivity coexist."

A Legacy of Community Impact

Dr. Weinkauf has been an active member of the Tulsa community since 2008, serving in leadership roles with organizations such as the Tulsa Area United Way, the American Red Cross, The Spring, and other impactful nonprofits. Her dedication to ending human trafficking began in 2009 and has been a driving force in her professional and personal life.

Dr. Weinkauf also co-founded Unite 4 Freedom, a nonprofit dedicated to combating human trafficking through faith-driven engagement, building strong communities, activating collaborative efforts, and facilitating restoration for survivors. "At Unite 4 Freedom, we empower communities to stand against human trafficking and provide survivors with the resources they need to rebuild their lives," Dr. Weinkauf stated.

Strengthening Tulsa's Ethical Foundation

The City of Tulsa Ethics Advisory Committee plays a pivotal role in ensuring ethical governance by providing guidance on ethical policies and addressing ethical concerns within the city. Dr. Weinkauf's appointment to this committee highlights her unwavering commitment to fostering trust and integrity in public service. Her ability to draw from diverse professional experiences, academic research, and community leadership uniquely positions her to contribute meaningfully to Tulsa’s ethical framework.

"Ethical governance requires a steadfast commitment to fairness, transparency, and continuous reflection," Dr. Weinkauf remarked. "I am honored to serve on this committee and to work toward a city where trust in government remains strong and enduring."