WHEREAS the initiation of a Faculty grievance may be intimidating for Faculty members
WHEREAS there may be alternative routes for faculty to pursue when considering initiating a Faculty grievance
WHEREAS Faculty members, especially newer members, may find it difficult to follow the appropriate procedures involved in the Grievance process
WHEREAS Faculty members may gain moral support by having a senior faculty member mentor them through the Grievance process
BE IT RESOLVED that the University of South Alabama Faculty Senate requests creation of a number of Ombudsmen positions for the purpose of assisting Faculty through the Faculty Grievance Process. Further, that the Faculty members selected for the roles of Ombudsman be selected by Faculty recommendation to the Faculty Senate who will determine, by vote, those to be recommended to the University for appointment. The term of the ombudsman should be three years minimally.
After discussion, this issue was referred to the Policy and Handbook Committee by a 13 to 9 vote: November 15, 2000