Academic Freedom, Tenure, and Due Process

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Criteria for Faculty Evaluation

The Association views the use of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) criteria in faculty recruitment, promotion, and retention within a broad vision of higher education for the public good. Since the 1990s, many universities and colleges have instituted policies that use DEI criteria in faculty evaluation for appointment, reappointment, tenure, and promotion, including the use of statements that invite or require faculty members to address their skills, competencies, and achievements regarding DEI in teaching, research, and service. Such criteria are one instrument among many that may contribute to evaluating the full range of faculty skills and achievements within a diverse community of students and scholars.

Against Anticipatory Obedience

The statement that follows, prepared by a joint subcommittee of the Association’s Committee on College and University Governance and Committee A on Academic Freedom and Tenure, was approved for publication by the parent committees in December 2024 and adopted by the Council in January 2025.

On Institutional Neutrality

The statement that follows was formulated by a subcommittee of Committee A on Academic Freedom and Tenure. It was approved by Committee A in December 2024 and adopted by the Association’s Council in January 2025.

Academic Freedom and Tenure: Muhlenberg College (Pennsylvania)

This report concerns the actions taken against Dr. Maura Finkelstein by the administration of Muhlenberg College, namely her termination without cause following allegations of anti-Zionism and discrimination based on her social media presence. The committee found that the Muhlenberg administration wrongly utilized the college's equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policy and violated Professor Finkelstein's right to academic due process, and that the existing policies do not adequately protect academic freedom or due process according to AAUP standards. 

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