When was the last time you updated your faculty handbook?

Agenda

• A Brief Overview of Common Problems with Faculty Handbooks
  • Outdated handbook models
  • Contractual issues, costs, and morale implications
• Outline of Common Problems and Solutions
  • Common problem #1: Inconsistent appointment letters and using handbooks as contracts
  • Common problem #2: Failure to define essential terms
    • Key terms to define
    • Alignment with institutional policies
  • Common problem #3: Inconsistent tenure standards, discipline/dismissal procedures, and appeal/grievance provisions
    • Articulating key provisions
    • Ensuring early intervention
    • Consistency with shared governance
  • Common problem #4: Unworkable/Obsolete/Illegal provisions including amendment limitations
    • Streamlining the handbook
    • Ensuring compliance with current laws
  • Common Problem #5: Unnecessary or inappropriate material (including common provisions that should not be included in the handbook)
• Next Steps/Final Q&A
  • Setting a schedule/timeframe
  • Involving faculty