We are pleased to note that recent progress on this initiative includes an increase of women faculty in the social sciences, the development of an advisory group for women faculty centered in the provost's office, and the creation of extra positions that are available solely to members of underrepresented groups. The Commission is vividly aware that the University has managed to maintain and, in many cases, to augment a faculty of impressive quality and renown, despite a number of years in which the opportunities for hiring new faculty were relatively limited. We are also aware that the rather variable levels of morale axnong junior faculty at the University reported by the visiting team are probably typical for pre-tenure groups at any institution, and virtually unavoidable. Nevertheless, because the perception of prospects seems to be rather grimmer than the reality and because the understanding of the University's system by this cohort is less than fully satisfactory, we encourage the institution to reassure itself that all appropriate measures are being implemented to communicate its policies clearly and apply them evenhandedly and that consideration be given to improving the level of mentoring. You will note that the Commission has specified no length or term of accreditation.
Accreditation is a continuing relationship that is reconsidered when necessary.
Thus, while the Commission has indicated the timing of the next comprehensive evaluation, the schedule should not be unduly emphasized because it is subject to change. The Commission expressed its appreciation for. The Commission also welcomed the opportunity to meet with you as well as the team representative, Dr. Paula Burger, during its deliberations. You are encouraged to share this letter and the team's complete report with all. of the University's constituencies. It is Commission policy also to inform the chairperson of the institution's governing board of action on its accreditation status.