The University Senate of Michigan Technological University

PROPOSAL 24-04

(Voting Units: Academic Departments)

THE TITLE AND ADMINISTRATIVE POSITION OF DEAN

The title and administrative position of Dean has traditionally entailed administration of a school or college of a university. Unlike directors of other units within the university, deans bear responsibility for the academic mission of the university to educate undergraduate and graduate students and to engage in research. To clearly indicate the commitment of Michigan Technological University to this mission, the title and administrative position of Dean shall be reserved only for the chief administrative officer of a school or a college. The only exception to this rule is for the Dean of Students, as this title has historical standing.

Notes

  1. The Senate forwards this proposal for approval under the provision in its constitution in which the Board of Control has assigned the Senate the responsibility and authority to review and establish policy and procedures in the area of procedures for the selection of Deans and Department Chairs.
  2. Approval of this proposal will require revision of Board of Control Policy 2.7, which lists the position of Dean of Distance Learning. In recommending the establishment of this position, the Senate's proposal (6-01) stated only that "an upper-level administrative officer, such as a Dean of Distance Learning" be appointed.

Draft of 13 February 2004