Faculty Assembly Minutes

Thursday, April 19, 2007

J. Van Speybroeck called the meeting to order. Prayer was offered by Sr. Rita Cameron.

Motion by Mike Hustedde, seconded by Andy Swift to approve last month’s minutes.

Nominations closed; Craig Shoemaker is chair-elect for the 2007-2008 academic year.

Final report on the Faculty Handbook by Jon Stauff:

• The University Board of Directors would like to see that the Handbook gives the President the authority to call a faculty assembly meeting, change the language to read “may request” to “shall request” when the President believes it necessary to call a special meeting. Motion to approve this language change made by J. Stauff, seconded by Tom Burns.
• Section 3.4.1. Definition of Tenure: The Board did not accept the proposed new language regarding definition of tenure (see handouts given by JWS at meeting, proposed language that Board wished to see removed was “tenure is granted in the form of a permanent contract.”) Discussion ensued. Lori Rodrigues Fisher noted that the Board was concerned that such language would make it difficult to remove tenure in a case deemed necessary. Concerns expressed by faculty included the idea that the concerns of the Board may not always be the concerns of the faculty; faculty are concerned about any possible weakening of tenure; another concern expressed was that there could exist a potential deterioration in spirit between the Board and the faculty. Lori Rodrigues Fisher suggested that the Handbook should return to its original statement about tenure as “a continuous appointment until retirement.” This statement, plus carefully defined criteria for removing tenure, should serve the interests of both the Board and the faculty. Motion to table this issue made by A. Moreau, seconded by A. Swift.
• Jon Stauff reminded faculty that a decision to table this section means that all changes are tabled, including ones deemed very important such as the grievance procedures and sexual harassment policies. Discussion ensued. K. Trujillo suggested that the Handbook Committee withdraw the proposed new language found objectionable by the board, approve all else and send the Handbook back to the Board for approval. Withdrawal of this language doesn’t preclude the faculty’s ability to revisit this issue at a future date. C. Devolder called for the question. Should we table approval of this section on tenure? The vote was in favor of the Nays—we will not table this approval. K. Trujillo made a motion to revert back to the original wording, seconded by A. Ambrose. Motion passed—the Board will see the original wording on tenure. Motion to recognize and thank the Handbook Committee made by A. Swift, seconded by J. Barr.

J. Van Speybroeck noted the formation of an exploratory committee to form an Emeritus Society; contact him for more information.

Reminder of the April 20 event celebrating Dr. Rogalski’s retirement.

Motion to adjourn: A. Swift, seconded by C. Stevens.