We read with interest your article “Rank, tenure and why it matters to students” in the November 14 edition of The Cascade. We agree that the introduction of a system of rank and tenure at UFV would have a beneficial impact for students, as your article clearly explains. As you also noted, the specific details of the FSA proposal cannot be publicized as we enter into bargaining, but a small correction seems to us in order. You mentioned that tenure “is often awarded with the title of professor (as opposed to assistant or associate professor)” but, more typically, tenure is granted with promotion to the rank of associate professor. The job security, guarantees of academic freedom, recognition, and other benefits granted with tenure are normally enjoyed, and are considered necessary, before promotion to full professorship, a rank that one can achieve after years of service and exceptional accomplishment.
Thank you again for your excellent coverage of these developments.
~Sylvie Murray
FSA Communications Chair
