There will be a one-year extension on the tenure clock for the probationary faculty who were appointed AY 2015–2019 due to a potential negative impact of COVID-19. However, all probationary tenure-track faculty will have the option to opt-out of this blanket extension and make application for tenure based on the original date specified in their letter of appointment. The decision to opt-out of the extension must be conveyed to the Department Head by July 1 in the year specified in the original letter of appointment as the date for tenure consideration. All current probationary faculty will receive a notice from the Office of the Provost that specifies both the original date for the tenure application and the extended date per this action. All annual review processes (progress toward Tenure and Promotion) procedures will continue to be followed as outlined in the Missouri State University Faculty Handbook and the approved departmental T&P plans.

The decision for extending the tenure clock was reached after extensive discussion with the academic leadership, Faculty Senate leaders, and the Faculty Handbook Committee. The rationale for an extension is based on the reality that the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted a significant period of this year, and it is likely to continue to impact how we conduct our teaching and research functions for an extended period of the coming year. These disruptions may disadvantage the work of faculty in a variety of ways that create obstacles and limitations for faculty in meeting the requirements for tenure. This one-year extension of the tenure clock for probationary faculty is intended to reduce the stress and provide a fair opportunity for success.

Frank Einhellig
Provost