Faculty Consultation in University Decision Making

It is the policy of Sonoma State University to provide for regular advice and consultation from faculty on decisions on all matters that have an impact on areas where primary responsibility rests with the faculty. This policy statement describes the approved framework for consultation on these matters.

1. Consultation is a deliberative process by which faculty and administrators provide advice and information to each other. Meaningful consultation between the faculty and the administration shall be defined as a mutual exchange of information, ideas, opinions and recommendations from initial formulation to final determination of policy and procedures affecting the operation of the University. The consultation shall take place in a timely manner before final decisions are made. A mutual respect for the process shall be observed.
2. On all matters that have direct impact on areas where primary responsibility rests with the faculty, consultation will be a process that includes a review by appropriate committees with a formal recommendation and rationale submitted to the President. Faculty have primary responsibility for the educational functions of the institution including admission and degree requirements, the curriculum and methods of teaching, academic and professional standards, and the conduct of creative and scholarly activities. On matters where the faculty has primary responsibility faculty recommendations are normally accepted, except in rare instances and for compelling reasons.
3. On other matters, including setting budget priorities for each fiscal year, consultation will be a process that includes a discussion of the issue or proposed policy with the President’s Budget Advisory Committee.

Updated May 22, 2006 by SSU.policies@sonoma.edu