A senator noted that any change that we make to the Handbook has to be approved by the Board. If the Handbook is not binding why does the BOR have to approve it? Moffett agreed that such an approval process would make it seem binding.
Ombudsman Reilly stated that the Handbook isn't really recognized law. In general, there would be an expectation of shared governance that the administration would follow the Handbook, but there is not a legal punishment in place if they don't.
A Senator noted that it’s an interesting situation because we signed a contract, but we are in an at-will institution where we could be let go for any reason.
Another Senator stated that this is alarming.
The Ombudsman replied that the Administration can fire someone for any reason or no reason at all, but they can’t fire people for reasons that are banned in the Civil Rights Act. And they can’t violate a signed contract. The only way you can seek recourse for a violation of the Faculty Handbook’s terms is a civil suit.
- The Ombudsman replied that the Administration can fire someone for any reason or no reason at all, but they can't fire people for reasons that are banned in the Civil Rights Act. And they can't violate a signed contract. The only way you can seek recourse for a violation of the Faculty Handbook's terms is a civil suit.
- Minutes respectfully submitted by Helen M. Smith, Faculty Senate Secretary