END OF YEAR REPORT, RANK AND TENURE COMMITTEE

2005-2006

During the 2005-2006 academic year, the Committee’s work centered on the evaluation of the portfolios submitted by the four faculty candidates for promotion to associate professor and tenure. During our standing meetings and in several additional sessions, we closely and carefully reviewed the narrative statements, teaching materials, and records of scholarship and service presented in each dossier. Committee members collaboratively crafted our letters of recommendation to the president, completing them in time for action by the Board of Trustees at their April meeting.

The Committee also contributed to the development of the Middle States Report.

Committee language on the third year review and on the definition of scholarship were incorporated into the Middle States analysis of faculty roles and procedures.

During the course of the year, the Committee had opportunities to meet with President McGuire, University counsel, John Leary, Dr. Blanshan, Dean Oyewole, and Acting Dean Volpe. As Chair of the Committee, Dr. Farnsworth became a liaison between Rank and Tenure and the Middle States Steering Committee.

As part of our Committee agenda for next year, we intend to revise all guidelines for candidates for promotion and tenure and to sponsor a workshop for faculty interested in learning more about the process of applying for promotion and tenure. We also will be considering definitions of scholarship that reflect the diverse professional activities of our different disciplines and incorporate the scholarship of integration. For the first time in 2006-2007, the Third Year Review Committee, drawing members from both the Rank and Tenure Committee and the Committee on Professional Development and Scholarship, will be convened. Dr. Farnsworth, Dr. Goldberg, and Dr. Padgett will be continuing on the Committee; Dr. San Juan will return to Committee service; Dr. Rampolla and Dr. Shafer were re-elected to the Committee, and Dr. Greer will begin her term of service.

Respectfully Submitted,

Susan H. Farnsworth

Rank and Tenure Committee Chair