Purpose of Tenure Review

.154        The purpose of the procedures for tenure review (C-8) and the criteria outlined here is to insure that the conferral of continuous tenure is based in every case upon an explicit judgment of qualifications of the candidate and the need of the university.  In each case, the university seeks to attract and retain the best-qualified Faculty member, taking into account the qualifications not only of the incumbent but also of others who may be available for the position. The responsibility for assessing and judging the qualifications of any candidate for appointment or reappointment falls primarily upon the Faculties and the Academic Senate and their respective Committees on Appointments and Promotions.

.155        In view of the permanent nature of any appointment that carries continuous tenure, the qualifications of each candidate for such appointment must be conscientiously evaluated in terms not only of individual merit, but also of the present and future needs of the individual Programs, Departments, and Schools of the university. The reviewing bodies must be satisfied that the candidate possesses superior qualifications, as stated in the criteria below. There is no presumption in favor of tenure. If there is reasonable doubt concerning the candidate’s qualifications or suitability for the position, tenure should not be conferred.