Questions about faculty evaluations and progress toward promotion and tenure

This message to all faculty and staff has been approved by Dr. Janet Kistner, Vice President for Faculty Development and Advancement.

There is no question that the COVID-19 health emergency has created significant disruptions to faculty research, teaching, and service. Please know that FSU is committed to preventing adverse employment or evaluative actions that may arise from the changes we have made, and will continue to make, in response to this emergency.

For instance, in light of our rapid transition to remote teaching this semester, we are considering adjustments to standard teaching evaluation practices for this semester. In addition, for faculty working toward tenure, the university has a long-standing policy regarding extending the tenure clock for circumstances that substantially impede progress toward tenure. Discussions are currently underway to determine whether any adjustments to this policy may be needed in response to our current COVID-19 emergency.

I am proud of the way FSU faculty are adapting to this uncertain environment. If you have any questions or concerns about matters pertaining to faculty development and advancement, please contact my staff at the Office of Faculty Development & Advancement (fda@fsu.edu) or contact me directly at jkistner@fsu.edu.