In recent years, the chair of the Faculty Tenure and Privileges Appeals Committee has taken unprecedented action in dismissing grievances filed by faculty members. Under the provisions of the Faculty Handbook, the Chair only has the authority to convene grievance panels. No provision of the Handbook, or any other document, authorizes the Chair to dismiss grievances. No prior Chair ever has asserted such power.
The dismissal of grievances harms both the faculty member and the University. When grievances are dismissed, no forum exists for a resolution of the dispute within the University. Faculty members are left with the choice of either suing in court or foregoing any remedy. No one’s interests are served when grievances are dismissed.
Therefore, the Academic Senate urges the Chair of the Faculty Tenure and Privileges Appeals Committee to halt the unauthorized practice of dismissing grievances. If the Chair continues to dismiss grievances, the Senate urges the President of the University to remove and replace the chair.
Resolution Number: 96/97-02 Motion by: Executive Board
Date: September 11, 1996 (Second not required when
Motion is presented by a committee
To be presented at Senate meeting held: September 18, 1996
Action taken: Passed