Respondents' departments are not requested so that persons might not be identified in any way. It was pointed out that in the past the written opinions on Senate questionnaires were exceedingly informative for interpreting the data. It is hoped that all faculty will respond and comment. An informal Senate enquiry reveals that there is no University policy on this subject. State law prohibits the use of anonymous complaints against police officers, but not faculty.
Anonymous complaints are evidence of absolutely nothing.
They cannot be used in any way to discipline or evaluate a faculty member. Such documents must not be placed in faculty personnel files at any level. The undergirding principle of academic due process, the right to face and cross-examine witnesses, is violated when such complaints become a basis for administrative action. In the rare instances, when serious misbehavior is alleged, limited and confidential consultation with appropriate higher administrative officers might logically precede the normal disposition. However, some discussion of this topic, perhaps at CAD and in School Councils, might help increase understanding of this issue.