Our commitment is to eliminate systemic barriers that allow misconduct and unacceptable behaviors at all levels, including among administrators and employees, ensuring such actions are promptly addressed with appropriate consequences.

Academic freedom ensures faculty’s autonomy in pursuing research, teaching, and expression without undue interference. Enshrined in the American Association of University Professor‘s (AAUP) 1940 Statement of Principles on Academic Freedom and Tenure, it comprises freedom of inquiry and research, allowing faculty to explore topics and publish findings without censorship; freedom of teaching, enabling faculty to teach their expertise without ideological constraints; and freedom of expression, permitting faculty to engage in public discourse and social activities without fear of reprisal. Upholding academic freedom fosters critical thinking, innovation, and the pursuit of knowledge within universities, affirming their commitment to truth and societal advancement through education and research.

Shared governance refers to a collaborative decision-making process within academic institutions. It involves various stakeholders such as faculty, administrators, staff, and sometimes students, working together to make key decisions regarding university policies, procedures, and academic matters. Shared governance acknowledges the expertise and contributions of each group, aiming to ensure transparency, fairness, and inclusivity in decision-making processes. Essentially, shared governance seeks to foster a cooperative environment where all stakeholders have a voice in shaping the direction and priorities of the institution, ultimately promoting its overall effectiveness and success.

Tenure provides faculty with job security by granting them permanent or long-term employment contracts, typically after a probationary period, contingent upon meeting established criteria for excellence in teaching, research, and service. Tenure safeguards academic freedom by protecting faculty members from arbitrary dismissal due to their research findings, teaching methods, or personal beliefs. Furthermore, tenure promotes stability within academic institutions, enabling faculty to pursue long-term research projects and contribute to the intellectual vitality of the university without fear of termination.