College of Medicine Faculty Affairs Roundtable Faculty Letters of Non-Renewal August 2013

Faculty Handbook The Faculty Handbook sets out provisions for non- reappointment, termination and dismissal of non- tenured faculty members. Section e/handbook/2011_facultyhandbook.pdf e/handbook/2011_facultyhandbook.pdf

Faculty Handbook Unless otherwise stated by written contract, all non- tenured faculty members can be subject to letters of non-renewal. State legislation provides that non-renewal of employment contracts at the end of the contract term is not grievable. When a decision of non-renewal of contract is reached, no reason for non-renewal need be given.

Faculty Handbook Written notice of the intention not to renew the appointment shall be given, to the extent that appropriated funds are available and legislation permits, as follows: – At least 3 months prior to the expiration of the most recent contract for faculty if the initial contract was for a one-year term. – At least 6 months prior to the expiration of the most recent contract for faculty appointed under a second-year contract with the department. – At least 1 year prior to the expiration of the most recent contract for faculty under a third year or subsequent-year contract with the department. – Previous service to the university to other departments or capacities is calculated for notice purposes.

Faculty Handbook When a decision not to renew an appointment has been made, the faculty member involved will be informed of that decision by his/her department chair. The faculty member may request reconsideration by the department chair. If the faculty member so requests, the reasons given in explanation of the non-renewal will be confirmed in writing.

What To Do If You Receive a Letter of Non-Renewal Talk to your supervisor – department chair, division chief, etc. – to see if there are any options to have them reconsider the non-renewal. – Would they be willing/able to extend your contract if you increase clinical productivity, research productivity, teaching responsibility, etc.? – If so, what milestones can be established? – When would a final decision be made as to potential extension of your contract?

What To Do If You Receive a Letter of Non-Renewal If it is determined that an extension of your contract is not an option- – Request letters of reference/recommendation. – Explore options for employment with other units at MUSC. – Explore options for employment outside MUSC. – Take necessary steps to effect a smooth transition of your clinical practice, research endeavors, etc.

Resources Available to Assist You Members of the Faculty Affairs team are available to meet with you to help you think through your options and determine next steps. University Ombudsman

Questions?? Craig Crosson Jennifer Nall