Tenure & Academic Freedom

Mission Statement

The contemporary concept of tenure in U.S. colleges and universities can be traced to the "Statement of Principles of Academic Freedom and Tenure," which was adopted in 1940 by both the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and the Association of American Colleges (AAC).  The basic principles of tenure as a system to protect the academic freedom of faculty members were articulated in this 1940 AAUP/AAC "Statement" and in the chapter on "Appointments and Tenure Policies" in the University of Pittsburgh's Faculty Handbook.

In the three-fold mission of the University (Teaching, Research and Public Service), the Tenure and Academic Freedom Committee (TAFC) offers counsel under the University grievance procedure 02-03-01 to faculty members relating to denial of promotion or tenure; nonrenewal of contract; notice of termination; actions inconsistent with university policy, and allegations of retaliation, or academic misconduct.  In addition, the Committee works through the university governance system with faculty, administrators, staff, and students on policy issues involving the academic freedom of individuals or of the institution.

Revised March 22, 2013