Dear Colleagues,
I realize that a delay in voting on MSCA personnel actions by the Academic Affairs and Student Life Committee has raised many concerns across campus and was especially disappointing for those individuals up for tenure and promotion. The Board of Trustees expressed a desire for two additional weeks to understand this commitment in light of unprecedented budget challenges due to COVID-19. Chair Mattera, who indicated that he plans to vote for the appointments, closed the committee meetings emphasizing that nothing should be read into this delay other than a desire to fulfill their fiduciary duties in these extremely uncertain times. It should be noted that the Board’s approval of the FY21 budget was provisional—another break from its usual practice in light of these extraordinary times.
I confirmed my support for these tenure appointments and promotions at the meeting. I’m hopeful that the additional time and information provided through the Finance and Facilities Committee discussion last night will guide the Trustees to a similarly favorable decision at the June 10 meeting.
John Keenan
President