They require careful, deliberate planning by each faculty member who expects to be considered for such action in the future, and responsible, objective and informed consideration by all who are responsible for review and recommendation. This document outlines the basic objectives and guidelines for the tenure and promotion process and is consistent with the Board of Regents regulations and the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Specific criteria for tenure and promotion must be developed by individual colleges and departments. In order for the University to perform its functions effectively, it is essential that faculty members feel free to express new ideas and divergent viewpoints in their teaching and research. A university must create an atmosphere that encourages faculty members to develop and share different ideas and divergent views and to make inquiries unbounded by present norms.
Tenure contributes significantly to the creation of such an atmosphere.
Technically, tenure is a status granted by the Board of Regents which guarantees a faculty member annual reappointment until he or she voluntarily resigns or retires, is terminated for cause, or is discontinued because of layoff. Tenure is ordinarily held only by faculty members at the academic rank of Associate Professor or above. In addition, collegiality and participation as a citizen of the University are an integral part of faculty performance. Because the decision projects lifetime performance from the first few years of a faculty member's career, tenure must be awarded only as a result of careful assessment over a period of time sufficient to judge the faculty member's documented accomplishments, ability, and probable future productivity. A judgement must be made that the faculty member's record represents a pattern indicative of continued accomplishment and productivity.