Education Commons^™

Making Good Tenure Decisions, Samuel L. Becker, Kathleen M. Galvin, Marsha Houston, Gustav W. Friedrich, Judy C. Pearson, William J. Seiler, Judith S. Trent

Department of Communication Studies: Faculty Publications

Whether to recommend the granting or denial of tenure to a faculty member is the most important decision a department makes. It not only has an effect on the professional life of a colleague, it has a major influence on the direction and long-term quality of the department. Therefore, it is essential that the decision be a good one. Although there is no way to absolutely ensure it, since some faculty members greatly improve with time and experience, while others fall apart, we believe the criteria and procedures we suggest can help to substantially increase the probability of a good …