Annual Report of the
Faculty Grievance Commission

August 28, 2002

The role of the Faculty Grievance Commission is outlined in The Handbook for Faculty and Academic Administrators, II.E.12, "Faculty Grievance Procedure."

During the 2001-2002 term, there were two members of the Faculty Grievance Commission, which normally consists of three members. Professor Paul Kleindorfer took on responsibility as Past Chair in order to act as presiding officer for a grievance hearing. Three faculty members were randomly selected and agreed to serve as members of a panel to decide on the merits of the case. The grievance hearing was completed and a report submitted to the Provost.

The Commission is grateful for the hard work put in by the voluntary panel members.

In addition to the grievance hearing, the Commission heard from a number of faculty concerning potential grievable matters. In one instance, the Commission decided not to accept the grievance and the other matters were resolved with the Commission acting as a facilitator.

Initially, the Commission meets with the grievant. If necessary, then the Commission sets up a separate meeting with relevant University officials to try and mediate the dispute. In the words of a prior chair, "An effective process can help preserve the good will, collegiality, and reputation of the entire University community." No matter the outcome of the grievance process, the University Administration learns important information about faculty concerns.

--Steven Sondheimer, 2001-2002 Chair, Faculty Grievance Commission