The role of the faculty in shaping educational policies, procedures, and the overall direction of SPS is essential. Faculty expertise provides a breadth of knowledge in making decisions to guide the academic life of the school. The complexity, size, and diversity of SPS require that faculty voice be heard through an elected representative body. The Faculty Council serves to promote the common interest of faculty by participating in dialogue with and making recommendations to the Dean of SPS and the Dean’s Leadership Council in matters that include but are not limited to:
● Rank for initial faculty appointments, faculty promotions, responsibilities, rights, grievances and privileges
● Relations and representation within the University
● Curricular changes, academic standards, and student learning outcomes
● Review and evaluation of faculty performance
● Student academic performance and classroom conduct
To promote transparency and provide additional feedback to the SPS Dean, the Faculty Council:
● Reviews the Dean’s annual strategic plan and budget report
● Provides the Dean with an annual, year-end report that summarizes the work of the Council and reviews the progress, direction, and leadership of SPS
● Conducts an annual meeting with the Dean to discuss the Council’s year-end report
The Bylaws of the Faculty Council are designed to assure faculty representation across departments and programs in SPS. They also serve to provide public knowledge of the responsibilities and operating procedures of the Council and its committees.
The roles and responsibilities of the Faculty Council are outlined in the SPS Faculty Council Charter.