CHARTER OF THE UNIVERSITY SENATE
University at Albany
Table of Contents
Section I: Composition and Election 1
Section Il: Definitions 1
Section Ill: Powers of the University Senate 1
Section IV: Officers of the University Senate 2
Section V: Councils of the Senate 2
Section VI: Operation of the Senate 3
Section VII: The Executive Committee of the Senate (SEC) 4
Vil.7.2 Committee on Research and Scholarship (CERS) 4
Vil.7.3 Committee on Academic Freedom, Freedom of Expression 5
and Community Responsibility (CAFFECoR)
Section VIII: | Council Structure and Operation 5
Section IX: A d of the Charter Us
Section X: Senate Councils Ed
X.1 Governance Council (GOV) a
X13 Committee on Assessment of Governance and Consultation EJ
X.1.4 Committee on Liaison and Election 8
X.1.5 Committee on Council Nominations 10
X.1.6 Committee on Mediation 10
be University P i and Policy Council (UPPC) 11
X.2.9 Resource Analysis and Planning Committee 12
X.2.10 University Facilities Committee 13
X.3 Undergraduate Academic Council (UAC) 13
X.3.8 Committee on Admissions and Academic Standing 14
X.3.8.4 Appellate Subcommittee on Academic Standing 14
X39 Committee on Curriculum and Honors 15
X.3.10 Committee on General Education 15
X.3.11 Committee on Interdisciplinary Studies 16
X.4 Graduate Academic Council (GAC) 17
X.4.6 Committee on Curriculum and Instruction 18
X.4.7 Committee on Admissions and Academic Standing 18
X.4.8 Committee on Educational Policy and Procedure 19
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CHARTER OF THE UNIVERSITY SENATE
University at Albany
Table of Contents (Continued)
X.5 Council on Research (COR) 19
X.5.8 Committee on Center, Institutes and Specialized Research 20
Laboratories
X.5.9 Researchers’ Liaison Committee 20
X.5.10 Ad Hoc Committees 20
X.6 Council on Academic Assessment (CAA) 21
X.6.6 Academic Program Review Committee 22
X.6.7 General Education Assessment Committee 22
X.7 Council on Promotions and Continuing Appointments (CPCA) 22
X.8 Council on Libraries, Information Systems and Computing (LISC) 23
X.8.4 The Library Committee 23
X.8.5 The Information Technology Usage Policy Committee 24
X.9 University Life Council (ULC) 24
X.9.5 Committee on Health, Safety and Well-being 25
X.9.6 Committee on Athletics 25
X97 Committee on Residential Life 26
Charter of the University
Senate
[THE CHARTER OF THE UNIVERSITY SENATE WAS APPROVED NOVEMBER 27, 2003.
ALL
AMENDMENTS TO THE CHARTER HAVE BEEN ADDED TO DECEMBER 2017,
FOLLOWED BY THE DATE OF THE AMENDMENT IN BRACKETS. WHERE THE
CHARTER REFERS TO ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES AND POSITIONS WHOSE
TITLES HAVE CHANGED, THESE HAVE BEEN UPDATED.]
The Faculty Bylaws specify rights accorded to the Faculty by the
Chancellor and Trustees of the State University of New York. According to
Article I Section 2.3-2.6 and Article II of those Bylaws, duly approved by the
Faculty, many of the rights and responsibilities of the Faculty are delegated to
the University Senate. This Charter specifies, subject to the Faculty Bylaws,
the mechanisms by which the Senate shall accomplish its duties and exercise
its rights.
Section I: Composition and Election
The composition of the Senate is specified by the Faculty Bylaws Article II
Section 2. Election of Senators is overseen by the Governance Council, as
specified by Bylaws Article II Sections 5 and 8, and detailed in Section X.1.4.3
of this Charter.
Section II: Definitions
In addition to those terms defined in the Bylaws Article I Sections 1 and
2.4, the following terms shall be employed in the Senate Charter:
11.1. Support Staff: The Support Staff is to include all full-time
classified and other workers employed by the University in clerical,
maintenance, sales, food, or other positions not listed as teaching,
managerial or professional.
IL.2. Undergraduate Students: Undergraduate students are defined as
those who are matriculated as undergraduates as defined by current
University policies.
IL,3. Graduate Students: Graduate students are defined as those who
are matriculated as graduate students as defined by current University
policies.
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Section III: Powers of the University Senate
IlI.1. The Senate shall interpret the extent of the powers and
responsibilities specified to itself in Article I Section 2.3 of the Faculty
Bylaws. Unless otherwise specifically directed by the Faculty, the Senate
shall construe its charge in the broadest possible sense.
TI.2. The Senate assumes that any policy, practice, or condition within
the University which in its judgment significantly affects the quality of the
institution's legitimate functioning is a proper concern of the Faculty, and
hence, of the Senate.
IlI.3. In order to fulfill its responsibilities to be consulted on major
appointments specified in Bylaws Article II Section 1.7, the Senate shall
interview final candidates for Provost and President.
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Section IV: Officers of the University Senate
In addition to those duties specified in the Faculty Bylaws Article II, Section 3.4:
IV.1. the Chair
IV.1.1. shall represent the Senate;
IV.1.2. shall meet regularly with the President;
IV.1.3. shall assist the Secretary in preparation of the minutes;
IV.1.4. shall serve on the Committee on Council Nominations of the
Governance Council;
IV.1.5. may serve as the Presiding Officer of the Faculty, as
specified in Bylaws Article I Section 3.
IV.2. the Past Chair shall
IV.2.1. chair the University Planning and Policy Council
IV.2.2. serve on the Executive Committee of the Senate
IV.2.3. serve on the Committee on Council Nominations of the
Governance Council
IV.2.4. produce the formal annual report of Senate activity
required in VI.1.1 in the September after serving as Chair.
IV.2.5. be available as needed to substitute for the Chair, including, as
specified in Bylaws
Article II Section 7.4, to preside over the Senate.
IV.3. the Vice Chair shall
IV.321¢ chair the Governance Council and its Committee on Council
Nominations
IV.3.2. serve on the Executive Committee of the Senate
IV.3.3. succeed to the office of Chair, as specified in Bylaws Article II
Section 3.3.
Iv.4. the Secretary shall
IV.4.1. chair the Liaison and Elections Committee of the Governance
Council;
IV.4.2. provide the Senate announcements specified in VI.1.2;
IV.4.3. have primary responsibility for maintenance of
electronic and written Senate documents;
IV.4.4. serve on the Executive Committee;
IV.4.5. serve on the Committee on Council Nominations of the
Governance Council.
Section V: Councils of the Senate
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Much of the routine business of the Senate occurs within its Councils. Councils
may gather and disseminate information, act on matters for which authority has
been delegated from the Senate, and recommend action in the form of Bills
brought to the Senate.
The composition of the councils, eligibility to chair, and council terms
must be consistent with Article II Section 6 of the Faculty Bylaws.
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Details on Council charges, operation, and structure are specified in
sections VIII and X of this Charter, specifically: X.1 Governance Council X.2
University Planning and Policy Council X.3 Undergraduate Academic
Council X.4 Graduate Academic Council X.5 Council on Research X.6
Council on Academic Assessment X.7 Council on Promotions and Continuing
Appointments X.8 Council on Libraries, Information Systems and Computing
X.9 University Life Council.
Section VI: Operation of the Senate
V1.1. Communication
As required in the Faculty Bylaws, Article II.1.6, the Senate shall
regularly disseminate information about its activities, both
prospective and retrospective, to the Faculty.
VI.1.1. The Past Chair shall distribute the formal annual report of
Senate activity required by the Bylaws every September.
VLA.2) The Secretary shall distribute brief announcements of recent
and upcoming business to the entire faculty before every Senate meeting.
VI.1.3. The Chair shall distribute every September a complete list of
all Senators, all members of councils, and all chairs of councils and
committees.
VI.1.4. The Governance Council and its Committee on Liaison and
Elections shall assist in distribution of information.
VI.1.5. The Executive Committee shall report to the Senate and to the
University community.
VI1.1.6. Senators shall regularly report to their constituents.
VI.1.7. Staff support for the Senate shall be designated by the
President. [ADDED BY AMENDMENT
5/2/05]
V1.2. Conduct of Meetings
In addition to those procedures specified in the Bylaws, particularly
Article II, Section 7, the following procedures shall govern operation of
the Senate:
VIL2.1. A regular day and time for Senate meetings shall be
publicized as early as possible in the previous year.
VI.2.2. As specified in Bylaws Article II Section 7.5, Senate
meetings may be observed by any member of the University
community.
VI.2.3. Ordinarily, speakers on a topic shall be alternated as to their
pro or con positions, with the exception that no Senator shall be denied
the right to speak at least once during the debate.
VI.2.4. If a Senate meeting is still in session at the end of its
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designated meeting time., the Chair shall call for an appropriate motion,
typically one of the following: to adjourn (implies no topic on the floor);
to postpone the current topic until the next regular meeting, to be
followed by a motion to adjourn; to recess until (for example, the
following Monday at 3:30 p.m.); to continue discussion until (specific
time); to move the previous question, to be followed by a motion to
adjourn, recess, or continue business until (specific time).
VI.2.5. When meetings are conducted in an electronic format, the
following rules shall be observed:
VI.2.5.1. Technical requirements and malfunctions. Each
member is responsible for mastering the interface of the
technology required for participating in meetings and for their
own audio and Internet connections. No action shall be
invalidated on the grounds that the loss of, or poor quality of, a
member’s individual connection prevented participation in the
meeting.
VI.2.5.2. Assignment of the floor. To seek recognition by the
chair, a member or guest shall use the raise-hand “reaction”
feature or equivalent of the Internet meeting service. A member
who intends to make a motion or request that under the rules may
interrupt a speaker (e.g. point of order) shall do so orally.
VI.2.5.3. Voting. Votes on main motions shall be taken by the
voting/polling feature of the Internet meeting service, unless a
different method is ordered by the Senate or required by the
charter or bylaws. On amendments or other interim motions, or
when otherwise required or ordered, other permissible methods of
voting are by the yes/no “reaction” feature (or equivalent),
electronic roll call or audible roll call. The chair’s announcement
of the voting result shall include the number of members voting
on each side of the question and the number, if any, who explicitly
respond to signal their presence without casting a vote (i.e. the
number of those who choose the abstain option in the vote/poll).
Business may also be conducted by unanimous consent.
VI.2.5.4. The use of chat or equivalent. A member intending to
make a main motion, to offer an amendment, or to propose
instructions to a committee, shall to the extent feasible, after
being recognized and stating the motion verbally, post the motion
language in writing to the chat feature (or equivalent), preceded
by the member’s name and Senate designation. Debate on
motions and/or the initiation of parliamentary actions shall be
conducted orally on the floor, not via the chat feature (or
equivalent).
Section VII: The Executive Committee of the Senate
VIl.1. The composition and principal responsibilities of the Executive
Committee are specified in the Faculty Bylaws Article II, Section 4. The
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Executive Committee is also charged, according to Article II, Section 2.4,
with discretionary power to appoint Senators.
VII.2. In addition, the Executive committee shall ensure that the Senate
address Faculty responsibilities as specified in Bylaws Article I Section 2,
and exercise the powers of the Senate as specified in Section III of this
Charter, in the broadest possible sense.
VII.3. To facilitate the conduct of Senate meetings, the Chair of the
Senate may appoint a parliamentarian. The staff support member for the
committee shall be the support staff person assigned to the Senate. [Last
SENTENCE ADDED BY AMENDMENT 5/2/05]
VII.4. The Executive Committee shall be responsible for oversight of
council operations to ensure that Council Chairs fulfill their obligation
as specified in VIII.3.7.
VII.5. The Executive Committee shall review proposals and agenda items
and may recommend for or against them. The Executive Committee shall
either refer a proposal to an appropriate Council or place it on the Senate
agenda. The Executive Committee may not prevent such items from
appearing on the Senate Agenda.
VII.6. The Executive Committee may establish subcommittees.
VII.7. Standing Subcommittees of the Executive Committee
VII.7.1. Three standing committees which shall report to the
Senate through the Executive Committee shall be appointed to
be called upon as needed to review and recommend policies
governing the conduct of the University community, and as
needed, for alleged cases of misconduct. [AMENDED 4/28/14 and
4/12/23]
VII.7.2. Committee on Ethics in Research and Scholarship
VII.7.2.1. Composition
VIL7 2Alels CERS shall consist of six Teaching Faculty at the level
of Full Professor, at least two of whom shall be Senators. Each
member shall commit to serving a term of three years and shall
receive special training related to conducting academic integrity
inquiries and investigations.
VIL7.2.1.2. The members of CERS shall be nominated for
Senate approval by the Committee on Council Nominations of
the Governance Council.
VII.7.2.1.3. The chair of CERS shall be selected by CERS from the
continuing members. This selection shall occur in the spring for a one-
year term to begin the following academic year. The chair shall serve
on the Executive Committee of the Senate.
VII.7.2.2. Responsibilities
VI.7.2.2.1. Review implementation of the policy and procedures on
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institutional responses to allegations of misconduct in research and
scholarship and recommend revisions to the policy and procedures as
needed.
VIL7.2.2.2. Receive and review yearly reports from the Vice
President for Research on the occurrence of cases pertaining to
violations of academic integrity principles in research and scholarship
and their disposition.
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VI.7.2.2.3. Supply at least one member to serve on the Inquiry
and Investigation Committees charged with evaluating allegations
of violations of academic integrity in research and scholarship.
VII.7.3. Committee on Academic Freedom, Freedom of
Expression, and Community Responsibility
VI.7.3.1. Composition
VI
pr.
VIL.7.3.101. CAFFECOR shall consist of six Teaching Faculty, at
least two of whom shall be Senators and at least three at the level of
Full Professor, who shall serve two-year terms and up to four
Professional Faculty.
VIL.7.3.1.2. The members of CAFFECOR shall be nominated for
Senate approval by the Committee on Council Nominations of the
Governance Council.
VII.7.3.1.3. The chair of CAFFECoR shall be selected by CAFFECoR
from the continuing members. This selection shall occur in the spring
for a one-year term to begin the following academic year. The chair
shall serve on the Executive Committee of the Senate.
1.7.3.2. Responsibilities. The Senate affirms its commitment to the
inciple that the widest possible scope for freedom of expression is the
foundation of an institution dedicated to vigorous inquiry, robust debate,
and the continuous search for a proper balance between freedom and
co:
wi
VII.7.4.
mmunity responsibility. Therefore the Senate charges the Committee
ith the following: [AMENDED 4/28/14]
VILe7 3.2 1s The Committee has the responsibility to consider
issues impinging academic freedom, freedom of expression and
community responsibility.[AMENDED 4/28/14]
VIL.7.3.2.2. The Committee shall recommend policies and review
implementation of policy and procedures pertaining to matters of
academic freedom, freedom of expression community responsibility
by both students and faculty.[aAMENDED 4/28/14]
Committee on Contingent Faculty [SECTIONS VIIL4
THROUGH VII.4.5.4 ADDED BY AMENDMENT 04/12/23]
VI
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1.7.4.1. Composition
VII.7.4.1.1. CCF shall consist of at least 6 members, including at
least two, but not more than three Teaching Faculty, one of whom
must be a Senator; at least two, but not more than three Professional
Faculty, one of whom must be a Senator; and, at least two Contingent
Faculty, defined by the limited term of their employment as faculty at
the University at Albany.
VII.7.4.1.2. The members of CCF shall be nominated for Senate
approval by the Committee on Council Nominations of the Governance
Council.
VII.7.4.1.3. The chair of CCF shall be selected by the CCF from the
continuing members. This selection shall occur in the spring for a one-
year term to begin the following academic year. The chair shall serve
on the Executive Committee of the Senate.
VII.7.4.2.. The Committee shall report to the Senate on the
questions and concerns raised by contingent faculty at the
university, with the goal of resolving issues that impede
contingent faculty in undertaking their duties.
VII.7.4.3. | The Committee shall propose policies and practices
with the goal of regularizing and improving the conditions
under which contingent faculty work at the university.
VII.7.4.4.. The Committee shall propose policies and practices
designed to ensure that contingent faculty at the university
are treated in a manner consistent with the university's
larger commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
VIL.7.4.5. |The Committee shall be responsible for collecting data
and writing an annual report due at the end of each
academic year on:
VII.7.4.5.1. Communication with contingents
VII.7.4.5.2. Demographics/role of contingents in the University
VIH.7.4.5.3. Workplace issues and career development
VII.7.4.5.4. Other issues and policies that affect contingent faculty
Section VIII: Council Structure and Operation
In addition to structure detailed in Section V:
VIII.1. Each Senator, except ex officio Senators, ordinarily must serve on a
council.
VIII.2. Council meetings normally may be observed by any member of
the University community. Under certain circumstances, a council may
vote to close a meeting. Closure must be reported to the Senate.
VIII.3 Ex officio members of councils and committees [sEcTIoNs VIII.3
THROUGH VIII.3.3 ADDED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
VUHI.3.1 Ex officio members of councils or committees shall be invited
to all meetings of that council or committee.
VIII.3.2 Persons or their designees who are ex officio members of a
Senate council or committee by virtue of their title or position in the
University administration are non-voting members and may not count
towards quorum.
VIII.3.3 Nothing shall be interpreted as removing voting rights
granted in the Bylaws (Article II Section 2.1).
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VIIL.4. Council chairs
VIII.4.1. Unless otherwise specified, each council shall elect a chair from
among its eligible
VIII.4.1.1. Persons or their designees who are ex officio members of a
Senate council by virtue of their title or position in the University
administration are not eligible to be elected either as chair of that
council or as chair of a standing committee or subcommittee of that
council. This does not preclude such an individual’s serving as chair of
an ad hoc committee. [ADDED BY AMENDMENT, 12/15/08]
VUI.4.2. The election shall occur before September 1, but no sooner than 2
weeks after the completion of election of Senators at Large. Such election
shall be overseen by the Vice Chair of the Senate or designee, and may
occur at an organizational meeting of the new Council where a quorum is
present or, if necessary, by electronic ballot with a quorum responding.
VIII.4.3.As stated in Article II Section 6.3 of the Bylaws, council chairs
must be Senators. If a council is unable to elect a chair from among its
Senators, it may nominate its chair-elect to be appointed for a one-year
term as a Senator by the approval of the Senate.
VUI.4.4. Council chairs shall provide council schedules and, as possible,
agendas to the Senate Secretary to be posted at least one week in
advance.
VIII.4.5.Minutes shall be recorded and drafted by the appropriate
support staff, and edited by the council chair. Minutes shall be presented
to the council at its next meeting and posted once approved by the
council.
VIII.4.6. Council chairs shall verbally report at each Senate meeting, and
preferably supply in advance a brief written report to the Secretary for
inclusion in a summary of council activity to be available at the meeting.
That report shall distinguish between informational sections, reports of
actions, and recommendations for action.
VUI.4.7. Council chairs are responsible for
ensuring that VIII.4.7.1. councils meet
on a regular basis.
VIII.4.7.2. councils fulfill their charges in a timely manner.
VIII.4.7.3. in fulfillment of their respect charges, councils effectively
balance their attention to routine business and broader policy issues.
VIII.4.7.4. council work engages council members to contribute
fully and develops governance leadership.
VIII.4.8. Council chairs serve on the Executive Committee and on the
Committee on Council Nominations of the Governance Council.
VUI.5. Reporting to Senate: The informational section of a council report
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may be questioned during a Senate meeting while the report is on the floor. A
Senator may challenge any action taken by a Council, by making an
appropriate motion under "new business."
VIIL.6. Committees: Councils may create committees and subcommittees.
Typically, every member of the council, except ex officio members, shall serve
on a committee.
VHI.6.1. Unless otherwise specified, the membership of the committee
shall be nominated by the council chair and approved by the council.
Normally no committee shall have more than one member from the same
academic unit. The council shall replace committee members who are
absent for more than four consecutive meetings, who are unable to
attend meetings, or who are no longer part of the constituency they
represented.
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VIII.6.2. Unless otherwise specified, committees shall include at
least two members of the council.
VIII.6.3. Unless otherwise specified, the chair of the committee
shall be elected by the committee, from among the council
members on the committee.
VIII.6.3.1. Persons or their designees who are ex officio members
of a Senate council's standing committee or subcommittee by virtue
of their title or position in the University administration are not
eligible to be elected chair of that standing committee or
subcommittee. [ADDED By AMENDMENT, 12/15/08]
VIIL.6.4. It shall be clearly specified in the committee charge what
actions are delegated to the committee, and all such actions are to be
subject to the approval of the council as a whole. Committees may also be
empowered to gather information for the council and to recommend
action to the council.
VIIL.6.5. Reports of committee meetings and their actions and
recommendations shall be provided in writing to the council by the
committee chair and, once accepted by the council, shall be part of the
council minutes.
Section IX: Amendment of the Charter
Amendments to the Senate Charter may be suggested to the Executive
Committee by any Senator. Amendments proposed by a majority of the
Executive Committee or proposed by a petition of 10% of the Senate members
must be submitted to the Secretary and brought to a vote by the Senate. The
Secretary shall circulate the proposed amendment at least three weeks prior
to the Senate meeting at which the vote is scheduled. Passage of amendments
requires a 2/3 vote of voting Senators present, and the presence of a quorum,
as specified in Bylaws Article II, Section 7.6. [AMENDED 5/8/17]
Section X: Senate Councils
The Senate may create or eliminate councils, except that the Executive
Committee and the Governance Council are created by the Faculty Bylaws in
Article II, Sections 4 and 5. Following are the councils, their compositions and
their charges:
X.1. GOVERNANCE COUNCIL
The Governance Council is created and charged with certain responsibilities
in Article II, Section 5 of the Faculty Bylaws. Additional structure and
responsibilities are established by this Charter.
X.1.1. Composition
X.1.1.1. The Senate Vice Chair, the Senate Secretary, the
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President of the Graduate Student Association [TITLE CHANGED BY
AMENDMENT 04/27/15], and the Chair of the Student Association
Senate, or their designees, ex officio.
X.1.1.2. At least 6 but not more than 8 Teaching Faculty, which shall
include at least 1 from each of the uptown, downtown, and east
campuses, and which shall include at least 4 Senators.
X.1.1.3. At least 2 but not more than 4 Professional Faculty, including
at least 1 Senator.
X.1.1.4. The chair shall be the Vice Chair of the Senate.
X.1.1.5. The staff support member for the Council shall be the
support staff person assigned to the Senate.
X.1.1.6. No more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty
or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.1.2. Handbooks. The Council shall develop and keep updated
X.1.2.1. a Governance handbook for dissemination to all University
members, describing Senate Governance and the importance of its
role in University operation.
X.1.2.2. a Senate handbook for dissemination to all Senators,
describing their responsibilities, including reporting to
constituents and transmitting their feedback to governance
bodies.
X.1.2.3. a Council Chair and Officer handbook describing Senate
council chair and officer responsibilities.
X.1.3. The Committee on Assessment of Governance and
Consultation shall evaluate the effectiveness of governance in
representing its constituencies, in addressing issues and concerns, and
in affecting institutional decisions.
X.1.3.1. The Committee on Assessment of Governance and
Consultation shall consist of no more than 8 members, including at
least 3 members of the Council, at least 5 Teaching Faculty, and no
more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty or Staff who are
not students or Voting Faculty.
X.1.3.2. The Committee shall assess:
X.1.3.2.1. the structure and functioning of governance;
X.1.3.2.2.._ the responsiveness of governance bodies to their
constituencies;
X,1.3,2.3. the effectiveness of Faculty participation in decision-
making, as specified in Article I, Sections 2.2 and 2.4 and Article II,
Section 5.2 of the Faculty Bylaws.
X.1.3.3. The Committee shall develop and administer assessment
instruments, conduct data analysis and report findings to the
Council. [AMENDED 10/20/14]
X.1.4. The Committee on Liaison and Elections shall work with
schools and colleges, and with the University community at large, to
disseminate information about University governance, conduct Senate
forums, and facilitate communication between the University Senate and
its constituencies. It shall be responsible for communication with the
SUNY-wide Senate. It shall apportion Senate seats annually among
schools and colleges, oversee, conduct, and report on elections for SUNY-
wide and at-large Senators, and facilitate timely election of student
Senators and of Faculty Senators representing schools and colleges.
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X.1.4.1. Composition. The Committee on Liaison and Elections shall
consist of eight members of the Voting Faculty distributed
approximately according to the numbers of faculty in the various
schools and colleges, including at least three Council members, the
Secretary of the Senate ex officio, at least one campus member of the
SUNY-wide Faculty Senate ex officio, and no more than 2 voting
members selected from Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting
Faculty. The committee shall be chaired by the Senate Secretary.
X.1.4.2. Liaison function. The Committee shall
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X.1.4.2.1.. advise and assist the Secretary concerning the Senate
website and on timely and wide dissemination of information to
constituents and to the university community; and on sharing
information with the SUNY-wide Senate;
X.1.4.2.2. advise and assist the Chair and Secretary of the
Senate on Senate forums, workshops, information sessions, and
other Senate-sponsored events; and on the Senate’s annual
calendar.
X.1.4.2.3. coordinate Senate business with the governance
activities of schools and colleges.
X.1.4.3. Election function.
X.1.4.3.1. | The Committee oversees University and Senate
Elections as specified in Bylaws Article II Sections 2, 5 and 8. To
partially fulfill its obligations towards Senate elections the
Committee shall:
X.1.4.3.1.1. In the fall of each year apportion the
representative Senators among the schools and colleges, and
between undergraduate and graduate population, approve the
procedures for election of Senators within the schools and
colleges, and begin to conduct appropriate liaison to ensure
timely appointment of student Senators, according to Bylaws
Article II 5.3.
X.1.4.3,1.2. ensure that the nomination processes for at-
large and representative Senators begin in January to meet
the nomination, notification and election deadlines.
X.1.4.3.1.3. in February solicit nominations from the voting
faculty in preparation for conducting elections within the
Senate for the offices of Vice Chair and Secretary.
X.1.4.3.1.4. nominate a slate for the election of Senators-
at-large according to Bylaws Article II, Sections 2.2 and
5.3.and conduct the election, to be decided by plurality vote.
[AMENDED 4/28/14]
X.1.4.3.1.5. regularly declare Senate seats vacant and
arrange for them to be filled in accordance with Article II,
Sections 8.2 and 8.3 of the Bylaws.
X.1.4.3.2. The committee is responsible for conducting all
University-wide faculty balloting. The committee shall perform
the election duties specified in the Bylaws Article II section 5.3,
and shall
X.1.4.3.2.1. determine the specific applications of the
definition of the Faculty and Voting Faculty.
X.1.4.3.2.2. conduct necessary liaison to ensure that
nominations and elections for UAS and SUNY-wide Senators
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shall occur in a timely manner.
X.1.4.3.2.3. review and transmit to the Voting Faculty
proposals for amendments to the Faculty Bylaws and conduct
balloting as necessary as specified in Bylaws Article IV Section 3.
X.1.4.3.2.4. transmit to the Voting Faculty referenda as
specified in Bylaws Article V Section 1.
X.1.4.3.2.5Method of Election of the Vice Chair and the Secretary
of the University Senate [SECTION X.1.4.3.2.5 ADDED BY AMENDMENT,
11/26/07]
X.1.4.3.2.5.1 As stipulated in Article II, Section 3.2 of the
Bylaws, “The Vice Chair and the Secretary shall be elected
by the previous Senate.”
X.1.4.3.2.5.2 Immediately prior to the election,
candidates shall have the opportunity to address the
University Senate for up to two minutes. Since candidates
need not be Senators at the time of the election, another
individual may speak on behalf of the candidate for up to
two minutes or the candidate may provide a statement of no
more than 500 words to be read to the Senate by the
Secretary of the Senate.
X.1.4.3.2.5.3 Elections shall be by secret ballot of the
Senate as a whole, provided that if there is only one (1)
candidate and if there is no objection from the floor, the
Senate may authorize a unanimous ballot be cast for that
candidate.
X.1.4.3.2.5.4 If no candidate receives a majority of the
ballots cast, then the candidate with the lowest number of
votes will be removed from the slate, and the election will be
repeated until a candidate receives a majority. In cases
where no candidate has a majority and two or more
candidates are tied for the lowest number of votes, all of
those candidates will be removed from the slate provided
that at least two candidates remain; if removing the
candidates tied for lowest number of votes would result in
only one candidate remaining but that person lacks a
majority of the votes cast, then the chair will cast a vote for
one of the candidates tied for the lowest number of votes
and the other tied candidate(s) will be removed from the
slate.
X.1.4.3.2.5.5 If at the end of a ballot it is determined
that the remaining candidates are tied for first place, then
the Chair will cast the winning vote. (“The chair cannot
vote twice, once as a member, then again in his capacity as
presiding officer.” Roberts’ Rules, Chapter XIII, §44.)
X.1.4.3.3. The Committee shall consult on all non-governance
committees and task forces where Faculty representation is
required, as specified by Article II Section 5.5.
X.1.5. The Committee on Council Nominations shall consist of the
Chair, Past Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary of the Senate, the Chairs of
the Senate Councils, one member elected from among the Council
members of the Committee on Liaison and Elections, and the incoming
Secretary and Vice Chair for the following year, if elections have taken
place.
X.1.5.1. shall be chaired by the Vice Chair of the Senate.
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X.1.5.2. shall recommend to the Senate a slate of Council members
and of members of the standing committees of the executive
committee before the penultimate spring Senate meeting. Normally no
council shall have more than one member from the same academic
unit.
X.1.5.3. may recommend to the Senate that council members who are
absent for more than four consecutive council meetings who are unable
to attend council meetings or who are no longer part of the
constituency they represented, and council chair or Senate officers who
are no longer willing or able to perform their duties, be replaced.
X.1.6. The Committee on Mediation [SEcTION X.1.6 ADDED BY AMENDMENT,
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5/2/05]
X.1.6.1. The Committee shall be activated whenever an individual,
and/or a unit, and/or a governance body bring(s) a dispute concerning
actions or inactions of any governance
body to the Governance Council. The Committee shall mediate between
the parties of the dispute.
X.1.6.2. The Committee shall consist of 3 members of the Governance
Council and no more than 2 members representing each of the parties
involved in the dispute, to be chosen by the parties. The Chair of the
Governance Council shall serve as Chair of the Committee. The 2
additional members from the Governance Council shall be elected by
that Council from a pool of nominees.
X.1.6.3. Ifthe parties have not come to an agreement within a
period of 60 days, the Committee shall submit a written report
summarizing the dispute and its own recommendation to the
Governance Council, which shall then transmit the matter to the full
Senate for final disposition.
X.2. UNIVERSITY PLANNING AND POLICY COUNCIL
X.2.1. Composition:
X.2.1.1. The President of the University, ex officio.
X.2.1.2. The Provost, ex officio.
X.2.1.3. The Vice President for Finance and Administration [TITLE CHANGED
BY AMENDMENT
04/27/15], ex officio.
X.2.1.4 The elected representative of the Council of Deans, ex officio.
[ADDED BY AMENDMENT.
10/25/04]
X.2.1.5. The Chair of the Senate
X.2.1.6. The Past Chair of the Senate
X.2.1.7. At least eight and not more than ten Teaching Faculty, at
least four of whom must be Senators.
X.2.1.8. At least two, but not more than three Professional Faculty,
including at least one Senator.
X.2.1.9. One graduate student and one undergraduate student,
both of whom must be Senators.
X.2.1.10. No more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty
or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.2.1.11. Staff support for the Council shall be designated by the
Vice President of Finance and Administration. [ADDED BY AMENDMENT
5/2/05] [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.2.2. The chair of the Council shall be the Past Chair of the Senate, or if
unavailable, shall be elected from among the Senators.
X.2.3. The Council shall have the responsibility for the oversight and
development of the educational, research and service programs of the
University. The Council shall coordinate with other Senate councils
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and with academic, governance, and administrative units, as
appropriate, in carrying out this responsibility. The Council shall make
policy recommendations to the Senate.
X.2.4. The Council as a whole shall be informed of and given
opportunity to discuss, at the earliest possible stages in their
formulation, and shall review, with respect to strategic and
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budgetary goals, prior to their adoption, proposals for new academic
programs and actions affecting continuance of existing programs. The
Council shall make recommendations regarding such proposals to the
Senate for its approval.
X.2.4.1. The Council shall recommend dates for
implementing new programs or discontinuing existing
programs.
X.2.4.2. The Senate Executive Committee shall coordinate program
review procedures involving the Undergraduate Academic Council,
the Graduate Academic Council, and the Assessment Council, as
appropriate.
X.2.5. The Council as a whole shall be informed of and given opportunity
to discuss, at the earliest possible stages in their formulation, and shall
review, with respect to strategic and budgetary goals, proposals for
new research programs, centers and facilities and actions affecting
continuance of existing programs. The Council shall make
recommendations regarding such proposals to the Senate, which shall
review them prior to their adoption. The Senate Executive Committee
shall coordinate program review procedures with the Research Council,
as appropriate.
X.2.6. The Council shall be consulted both on the size and general
composition of the student body and shall make recommendations to the
Senate for review.
X.2.7. The Council shall, in consultation with the Registrar and other
appropriate parties, make recommendations to the Senate for
changes in the academic calendar policy.
X.2.8. The Council shall seek formal representation on budget advisory
bodies established by the President and Provost, and its representatives
shall report to the Council in order to facilitate the Council’s review and
advice.
X.2.9. Resource Analysis and Planning Committee
X.2.9.1. The Resource Analysis and Planning Committee shall
review important recent trends and developments in the University
budget, including changes in funding sources and expenditures. It
also shall review the development and implementation of the
University’s Strategic Plan. As appropriate, it shall make
recommendations to the University Planning and Policy Council.
X.2.9.2. The Committee shall include the Vice President of Finance
and Administration, ex officio, or designee. [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT
04/27/15]
X.2.9.3. The Committee shall include at least 6 and no more than 8
teaching faculty appointed by the Governance Council, including at
least 3 Council members, 2 of whom are Senators, and no more than
2 voting members selected from Faculty or Staff who are not
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students or Voting Faculty.
X.2.9.4. The Committee shall include 1 Professional Faculty
member, appointed by the Governance Council.
X.2.9.5. The Committee shall include 1 undergraduate student
selected by the Student Association and 1 graduate student
selected by the Graduate Student Organization.
X.2.9.6. The Committee shall submit recommendations to the
Council for approval for submission to the Senate.
X.2.9.7. The chair shall be elected from among the Council members.
X.2.10. University Facilities Committee
X.2.10.1. The University Facilities Committee shall review master
planning, including planning for major new buildings and facilities;
the operation of facilities; renovation; and management, including
traffic, transportation, and parking. As appropriate, it shall make
recommendations to the University Planning and Policy Council.
X.2.10.2. The Committee shall include the Vice President of Finance
and Administration or designee, ex officio. [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT
04/27/15]
X.2.10.3. The Committee shall include at least 4 and not more than 6
teaching faculty, at least 2 of whom are Council members with at least
1 Senator, at least 1 and not more than 2 Professional Faculty, to be
appointed by the chair of the Council in consultation with the
governance Council, and no more than 2 voting members selected
from Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.2.10.4. The Committee shall include 1 undergraduate student and 1
graduate student.
X.2.10.5. The chair shall be elected from among the Council members.
X.3. UNDERGRADUATE ACADEMIC COUNCIL
X.3.1. Composition [AMENDED 12/18/06]
X.3.1.1. The Vice Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education or
designee, ex officio
[TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.3.1.2. At least eight but not more than ten Teaching Faculty, at
least three of whom must be Senators, representing a variety of
academic disciplines and campus locations [AMENDED 10/4/04]
X.3.1.3. At least three but not more than four Professional Faculty,
one of whom must be a Senator [AMENDED 10/4/04]
X.3.1.4. One Graduate Student
X.3.1.5. At least two but not more than three Undergraduate
Students, one of whom must be a Senator
X.3.1.6. No more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty
or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.3.2.The staff support person for the Council shall be an Assistant
Dean in the Office of Undergraduate Education.
X.3.3. The Council as a whole shall have the responsibility for
implementing the conduct of the University’s undergraduate
educational program.
X.3.4. The Council as a whole shall review all new undergraduate
academic program proposals and all proposals that would affect the
continuation of undergraduate programs. It shall submit recommended
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programs or eliminations to the University Senate for approval.
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X.3.4.1. All proposals for new undergraduate academic programs
shall be submitted to the Council, which shall consult with the
University Planning and Policy Council and, when appropriate, with
the Graduate Academic Council as part of its deliberations.
X.3.4.2. All new programs recommended by the Council shall
be submitted to the University Senate for approval.
X.3.4.3. Normally new undergraduate courses shall receive final
approval from the schools and colleges, but the Council shall have the
power to review the academic merit of courses and require
reconsideration. The Council shall approve all revisions in existing
undergraduate instructional programs. The Council may, at its
discretion, delegate authority for minor revisions to the Vice Provost
for Undergraduate Education.
X.3.5. The Council as a whole shall review all assessments of
undergraduate academic programs including those from the Council on
Academic Assessment and shall recommend changes it deems
desirable.
X.3.5.1. It shall approve all revisions in existing undergraduate
instructional programs.
X.3.5.2. The Council may, after due consideration,
recommend suspension or discontinuance of a program to
the Provost and to the President.
X.3.6. The Council as a whole shall: establish such undergraduate
academic regulations as it deems necessary; formulate policies for
independent study and internship programs and regularly review such
established policies and programs; insure and review procedures for
individual student academic grievances at school and college levels;
establish criteria for determining undergraduate academic standing,
probation, and dismissal, undergraduate academic honors,
undergraduate admissions policy, and undergraduate graduation
requirements and standards.
X.3.7.To accomplish these objectives the Council shall establish
committees such as curriculum, admissions, academic standing, honors,
interdisciplinary studies, and general education. These committees and
subcommittees may consider any matter referred to them by the Council.
X.3.8. Committee on Admissions and Academic Standing
X.3.8.1. The Committee shall consist of no more than ten members,
including at least three members of the Teaching Faculty, at least two
of whom are members of the Council, one Professional Faculty, one
Undergraduate Student, and no more than 2 voting members selected
from Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.3.8.2. Charges relating to Admissions: The Committee shall
establish criteria for the admission of undergraduate students, serve
as an appellate body for reviewing admissions decisions, make
recommendations concerning the size and composition of the
undergraduate student body, review and evaluate special admissions
category programs, and establish and review policies governing the
awarding of placement and credit for non- University at Albany
independent study, proficiency examinations, and experiential learning
programs. It shall advise the Undergraduate Admissions Office in
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cases where the admission criteria do not apply to an applicant's
special qualifications and experience.
X.3.8.3. Charges relating to Academic Standing: The committee shall
develop and review academic standards and regulations including such
matters as classification and status, grading, retention, program
registration and adjustments, and course load. It shall insure and
review procedures for individual student academic grievances at the
school and college level and to serve as an appellate body for academic
grievances at the university level.
X.3.8.4. Appellate Subcommittee on Academic Standing
X.3.8.4.1. An appellate Subcommittee on Academic Standing
shall consist of a Chair who is a member of the Committee on
Admissions and Academic Standing and the Council, at least three
Teaching Faculty, one but not more than two designated
X.
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representatives of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education,
the Director of the Office of Conflict Resolution and Civic
Responsibility or designee, the Director of the Advisement Services
Center or designee, the Director of the Educational Opportunities
Program or designee, and two undergraduate students. Three
representatives shall be invited from the College of Arts and
Sciences and one from each of the following: Business, Criminal
Justice, Education, Information Science and Policy, Nanoscale
Science and Engineering, Public Health, Rockefeller College, and
Social Welfare.
X.3.8.4.2. The subcommittee has the authority to grant petitions
for students seeking reinstatement and may establish specific
academic conditions for any student granted reinstatement. It has
the authority to grant petitions for students seeking exception to
being placed on Academic or Terminal Probation. The
subcommittee has the authority to grant student-requested
exceptions to University-wide academic policies. It may develop
and propose to the Committee on Academic Standing guidelines
whereby designated administrative officers may grant exceptions to
University policies.
3.9. Committee on Curriculum and Honors
X.3.9.1.1.The Committee shall consist of no more than ten members,
including at least three members of the Teaching Faculty, at least one
of whom is a member of the Council, one Professional Faculty, one
Undergraduate Student, and no more than 2 voting members selected
from Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.3.9.1.2. It shall review proposed new undergraduate major,
major honors, minor, certificate and other instructional
programs referred to it by the Council.
X.3.9.1.3. It shall evaluate existing undergraduate major, major
honors, minor, certificate and other instructional programs when
requested to do so by the Council or, through the Council, by the
Academic Program Review Committee of the Council on Academic
Assessment.
X.3.9.1.4. It shall develop and recommend to the Council the
University-wide patterns for baccalaureate degrees.
X.3.9.1.5.It shall avoid duplication and overlap of undergraduate
courses approved by the schools and colleges by having the authority
to review and return for reconsideration such courses.
X.3.9.1.6. It shall develop and review academic standards and
regulations pertaining to dean's list, dean’s commendation for part-
time students, and graduation with honors and recommend any
changes to the Council.
X.3.9.1.7. It shall adjudicate appeals from students denied honors
by their individual department or program honors committee.
X.3.10. Committee on General Education [AMENDED 12/18/06]
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X.3.10.1. The Committee shall consist of the Associate Dean for
General Education ex officio[tirLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15], the
Chair of the General Education Assessment Committee of the Council
on Academic Assessment or designee ex officio, at least five but no
more than ten members of the Teaching Faculty, at least three of
whom are members of the Council, two Professional Faculty, two
Undergraduate Students, at least one of whom is a member of the
Council, and no more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty or
Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty. The Chair of the Council
shall consult with
the Vice Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education [TITLE CHANGED By
AMENDMENT
04/27/15] when determining the membership of this Committee.
X.3.10.2. This Committee is charged with considering and approving
new courses proposed for inclusion in the General Education
Program as well as revisions to existing courses designed to qualify
them for the program.
X.3.10.3. The Vice Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education
[TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15] shall have authority to grant
waivers and make appropriate substitutions for individual students.
The Committee shall serve as an appellate body for students who are
not satisfied with the Vice Provost’s decision.
X.3.10.4. In response to feedback from the Council on Academic
Assessment’s General Education Assessment Committee or requests
from other interested campus parties, the Committee shall consider
revisions of the nature, structure, criteria, regulations, and/or
administration of the General Education Program.
X.3.10.4.1. Ifthe assessment results indicate a course has not
sufficiently met the objectives of the category, the Committee may
suggest revisions necessary for the course's continuance in the
category or may designate the course to be discontinued as a course
in the category, effective at the end of the spring term of the next
academic year. Any decision to discontinue a course must provide
sufficient opportunity for appeal and revision and must be approved.
by the Council.
X.3.10.4.2. When the potential problems are brought to the
Committee’s attention relating to variety of choice, supply within the
category, category objectives and criteria, assessment
methodologies, and potential negative impacts on subpopulations of
students (e.g., transfers, students in certain majors), the Committee
shall consider these issues and, as warranted, propose policy
revisions to the Council.
X.3.10.4.3. Should the SUNY-mandated General Education
requirements and attendant regulations and procedures be
expanded or revised, the Committee shall be the primary
governance body charged with proposing revisions of the
University’s program.
X.3.10.4.4. In accordance with SUNY policies, the Committee may
consider appeals from academic units to seek exemptions of a
portion of the General Education Program for their students. If the
exemption sought involves a SUNY-mandated General Education
requirement, the Committee may recommend through the UAC that
the University Senate request the President to request such a
waiver from the SUNY Provost.
X.3.10.4.5. The Committee shall also consider such concerns as
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assessing the sufficiency of the variety and number of seats
within each category requirement and matters relating to faculty
development within General Education.
3.11. Committee on Interdisciplinary Studies
X.3.11.1. The Committee shall consist of no more than 10 members,
including the Assistant Dean(s) of Undergraduate Education
responsible for coordinating University- Wide internships, independent
study and interdisciplinary studies ex officio, at least three members of
the Teaching Faculty, at least one of whom is a member of the Council
and one of whom is a member of University Libraries, one Professional
Faculty, one Undergraduate Student, and no more than 2 voting
members selected from Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting
Faculty.
X.3.11.2. The Committee shall establish and maintain liaisons with all
University schools and colleges and other appropriate campus offices
for the purposes of encouraging, promoting, and coordinating
interdisciplinary studies on a campus-wide basis.
X.3.11.3. The Committee shall develop and recommend changes in
existing practices or regulations for the purpose of facilitating
undergraduate interdisciplinary studies.
X.3.11.4. The Committee shall avoid duplication and overlap of
undergraduate interdisciplinary studies courses approved by the
schools and colleges by having the authority to review and return
for consideration such courses.
X.3.11.5. The Committee shall receive and review proposed new
faculty-initiated interdisciplinary majors and minors for
recommendation to the Undergraduate Academic Council for
appropriate handling. It shall evaluate existing faculty-initiated
interdisciplinary majors and minors when authorized by the
Undergraduate Academic Council for appropriate handling.
X.3.11.6. The Committee shall receive and approve or
disapprove proposed student-initiated interdisciplinary
majors.
X.3.11.7. The Committee shall recommend and monitor "U Uni," “U
Unl”, and other “U” prefix course offerings to facilitate serious
independent study and participation in special projects and
experimental programs and courses which are not provided for
through other course offerings and/or which involve faculty from more
than one school or college.
X.3.11.8. The Committee shall receive and approve or disapprove
student and instructor proposals for U Uni offerings.
X.4. GRADUATE ACADEMIC COUNCIL
X.4.1. Composition:
X.4.1.1. The Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Education or
designee, ex officio [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.4.1.2. At least six but not more than eight Teaching Faculty
(two of whom must be Senators and one must be a member of the
library staff), representing a balance of disciplinary areas.
X.4.1.3. One Professional Faculty member
X.4.1.4. At least one but not more than three graduate student(s) (one
must be a Senator)
X.4.1.5. No more than one undergraduate student
X.4.1.6. No more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty
or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.4.2. The staff support person for the Council shall be a designee of
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the Dean of Graduate Education. [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.4.3. The Council shall have the responsibility for the conduct of the
University’s graduate educational program.
X.4.4. The Council as a whole shall review all proposals for new
graduate programs. It shall submit recommended program approvals to
the University Senate for consideration.
X.4.5. The Council as a whole shall review proposals that would affect
the continuation of graduate programs
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X.4.5.1. It shall consider assessment reports pertaining to graduate
programs including those from the Council on Academic Assessment
and shall recommend changes it deems desirable.
X.4.5.2. After due consideration, the Council may bring a
recommendation to suspend or discontinue of a program to the
Senate.
X.4.6. The Council, through its Committee on Curriculum and
Instruction, shall have responsibility for the graduate academic
curriculum. The committee shall have no more than eight members and
shall include at least five Teaching Faculty, at least two of whom are on
the Council.
X.4.6.1. The committee shall consider all revisions to existing
graduate degree programs and shall submit all recommended
changes to the Council for final approval.
X.4.6.2. New graduate courses and changes to existing graduate
courses receive final approval from the schools and colleges, subject to
appropriate notification, but the Graduate Academic Council shall have
the power to review new courses and changes to existing courses and
require reconsideration by the schools and colleges. Notification should
be made to the Graduate Academic Council, to the Office of the Dean of
Graduate Education, [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15] the Office of the
Vice President or Dean of the affected college or school, and to all
other interested parties. [SECTION X. 4.6.2 REVISED BY AMENDMENT 5/2/05]
X.4.6.2.1. Courses offered at the graduate level must be
approved by the faculty of a school or college. An interdisciplinary
or cross-listed graduate course may be proposed by more than one
school or college. Such a course must be approved by the faculty of
each sponsoring school or college.
X.4.6.2.2 A graduate course must remain the responsibility of
at least one school or college during the course’s lifetime.
X.4.6.2.3 Because Study Abroad programs are centrally
approved by SUNY System Administration, requiring home
campus registration regardless of the SUNY campus that is
administering the program, they are not included under these
provisions. [SECTIONS X.4.6.2.1 THROUGH X.4.6.2.3 ADDED BY AMENDMENT,
02/09/09]
X.4.7.The Council, through its Committee on Admissions and
Academic Standing shall establish criteria for determining academic
standing and admissions policy and its application. The committee shall
include no more than eight members, including at least five Teaching
Faculty, at least two of whom are on the Council, and no more than 2
voting members selected from Faculty or Staff who are not students or
Voting Faculty.
X.4.7.1. It shall review changes to standards and procedures for
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admission to graduate study recommended by the schools,
colleges, and departments.
X.4.7.2. It shall review changes in standards and procedures for
admission to candidacy for graduate degrees recommended by schools,
colleges, and departments.
X.4.7.3. It shall review such actions of the Dean of Graduate
Education [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15] or of school deans and
department chairs dealing with academic standing or academic
grievances as are brought before it by any interested party.
X.4.7.4. The committee shall submit all recommended changes and
actions to the Council for final approval.
X.4.8. The Council, through its Committee on Educational Policy and
Procedure shall provide recommendations on policies concerning the
administration and the conduct of graduate programs. The committee
shall consist of no more than eight members, including at least five
Teaching Faculty, at least two of whom are on the Council, and no more
than 2 voting members selected from Faculty or Staff who are not
students or Voting Faculty.
X.4.8.1. The committee shall recommend to the Council such
graduate academic regulations as it deems necessary.
X.4.8.2. The committee shall insure and review procedures for
individual student academic grievances at school and college levels.
X.4.8.3. The committee shall submit all recommendations to the
Council for approval. Policy changes are then brought to the Senate for
consideration if approved by the Council.
X.5. COUNCIL ON RESEARCH
X.5.1. Composition
X.5.1.1._ The Vice President for Research or designee, ex officio
X.5.1.2. At least 6 but normally not more than 12 Teaching Faculty,
of whom at least four are Senators, from a variety of academic
disciplines
X.5.1.3. At least one, but not more than two Professional Faculty
X.5.1.4. At least one, but not more than two Graduate Students
X.5.1.5. One Undergraduate Student
X.5.1.6. No more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty
or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.5.2. The staff support member for the Council shall be the assistant
to the Vice President for Research.
X.5.3. The Council as a whole shall regularly review research activities
and the allocation of research funds within the University. It shall
consider the relationship between teaching and research. The Council
shall oversee policy on University research, including that described in
the University policy on Organized Research Units. It shall make policy
recommendations to the Senate.
X.5.4. The Council as a whole shall be informed on and given opportunity
to discuss, at the earliest possible stages in their formulation, proposals
for new research initiatives or actions affecting the continuance of
existing programs. This would include, but not be limited to, Council
responsibilities related to establishment and continuance of Centers,
Institutes or Laboratories as guided by the University Policy on
Organized Research Units. The Council shall advise the Vice President for
Research on such matters and shall make recommendations to the
University Planning and Policy Council and the Senate when it
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determines that major new research initiatives and commitments may
significantly affect University organization and resource allocation.
X.5.5. The Council shall be responsible for all policies that guide
research procedures being conducted by University members with
regard to the well being of animal and human subjects, safety standards,
and compliance with other regulatory standards. The Council shall
regularly confer with the University institutional review boards in these
matters, and shall review their operation and policy implementation.
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X.5.6. The Council shall conduct or participate in the review of
applications to internal campus research support mechanisms. It may do
so by the creation of ad hoc committees that include expertise from
faculty who are not members of the Council.
X.5.7. The Council shall conduct or participate in the processes by which
campus or SUNY excellence in research award nominations are made. It
shall determine the appropriate review process for each award category
and may create ad hoc and expert review committees that include
faculty who are not members of the Council.
X.5.8. The Committee on Centers, Institutes and Specialized
Research Laboratories
X.5.8.1. The committee shall include a minimum of four Council
members, and no more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty
or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.5.8.2. The committee shall be responsible for guiding Council
actions as charged by the University Policy on Organized Research
Units.
X.5.8.3. The chair of the committee shall be designated by the Council.
X.5.9. The Researchers’ Liaison Committee
X.5.9.1. The Committee shall be composed of
X.5.9.1.1. a minimum of three Council members
X.5.9.1.2. The Director of the Office of Sponsored funds, ex officio
X.5.9.1.3. | A minimum of two principal investigators designated by
the Council
X.5.9.1.4.__ Directors or designees from the following
Sponsored Funds offices: Personnel; Purchasing; Accounting;
Compliance
X.5.9.1.5. No more than 2 voting members selected from
Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.5.9.2. The chair of the Committee shall be designated by the Council.
X.5.9.3. The Committee shall consider ways to improve the campus
procedures relevant for grants management. It shall provide
recommendations to the Vice President for Research on methods to
improve investigators’ capacity to efficiently apply for external
funding and manage grants received.
X.5.10. Ad Hoc Committees
X.5.10.1. The Council may employ committees to facilitate its actions
under the Council Charges.
X.5.10.2. Such committees may be composed in part, but not in whole,
of faculty members who are not Council members, and no more than 2
voting members selected from Faculty or Staff who are not students or
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Voting Faculty. The Council shall specify the composition, charges and
chairs of such committees.
X.5.10.3. Ad hoc committees would typically report to the Council,
but the Council may specify that some committees report directly to
the Vice President for Research in an advisory or consultative
capacity.
X.6. COUNCIL ON ACADEMIC ASSESSMENT
X.6.1. Composition
X.6.1.1. The Vice Provost and Dean for Graduate Studies, the Vice
Provost and Dean for Undergraduate Education, and the Associate
Vice Provost for Academic and Resource Planning, or their designees,
ex officio [TITLES CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.6.1.2. At least six but not more than eight Teaching Faculty, at
least three of whom must be Senators, representing a variety of
academic disciplines and campus locations
X.6.1.3. At least one but not more than two Professional Faculty
X.6.1.4. One Graduate Student
X.6.1.5. At lease one but not more than three Undergraduate Students
X.6.1.6. No more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty
or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.6.2. The staff support person for the Council shall be the
Associate Vice Provost for Academic and Resource Planning or
designee. [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.6.3. The Council on Academic Assessment shall be responsible for
developing campus policies, ensuring compliance with external policies,
and considering other matters relating to academic assessment.
X.6.4. The Council shall be responsible for scheduling, coordinating
and supervising the variously mandated or cyclical reviews of
continuing academic programs.
X.6.5. The Council as a whole shall review the actions and assessment
reports of its committees and shall be responsible for formally
recommending that an assessment report be accepted by the University
Senate. Based on findings from its committees or its own deliberations,
the Council may recommend policy changes to the University Senate and
may recommend to the Executive Committee that it refer a question or
issue to another council.
X.6.6. Academic Program Review Committee
X.6.6.1. The Academic Program Review Committee shall be
responsible for ensuring and overseeing periodic reviews of each of the
University’s academic programs, with consideration for established
external accreditation cycles. In addition, the Committee shall be
responsible for ensuring compliance with the SUNY-mandated
assessment of undergraduate majors and graduate degree and
certificate programs.
X.6.6.2. The Committee shall consist of no more than eleven
members, including at least six members of the Teaching Faculty, at
least three of whom are members of the Council, one Professional
Faculty member, one Graduate Student, one Undergraduate Student,
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the Associate Vice Provost for Academic and Resource Planning, ex
officio, or designee, [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15] and no more
than 2 voting members selected from Faculty or Staff who are not
students or Voting Faculty.
X.6.6.3. The Chair of the Committee shall be a member of the
Teaching Faculty who is also a member of the Council.
X.6.6.4. The Committee shall submit its assessments of academic
programs to the Council and to the director or chair of the assessed
program.
X.6.6.5. The Committee may undertake the assessment of
instructional programs other than those for which assessment is
required by SUNY mandate. These would include, but would not be
limited to, undergraduate minors, undergraduate certificate
programs, and various University-wide (Uni/Unl) offerings.
X.6.7. General Education Assessment Committee [amenpED 12/18/06]
X.6.7.1. The General Education Assessment Committee shall
be responsible for establishing and overseeing reviews of the
General Education Program.
X.6.7.2. The Committee shall consist of no more than fourteen
members, including at least six members of the Teaching Faculty, at
least three of whom are members of the Council, one Professional
Faculty, one Graduate Student, one Undergraduate Student, the
Associate Vice Provost for Academic and Resource Planning or
designee ex officio[TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15], the Associate
Dean for General Education ex officio[tirL— CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15],
the Chair of the General Education Committee of the Undergraduate
Academic Council or designee ex officio, and no more than 2 voting
members selected from Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting
Faculty.
X.6.7.3. The Chair of the Committee shall be a member of the
Teaching Faculty who is also a member of the Council.
X.6.7.4. The Committee shall conduct an assessment for each
General Education category on a regular cycle.
X.6.7.5. The Committee shall submit its assessments of General
Education to the Council and, for information, to the General
Education Committee of the Undergraduate Academic Council.
X.7. COUNCIL ON PROMOTIONS AND CONTINUING APPOINTMENTS
X.7.1. Composition [AMENDED 4/7/14 & 5/8/17]
X.7.1.1. At least fourteen and no more than twenty-two Teaching
Faculty who hold continuing appointment (of whom at least three
must be Senators), and at least half must be Full Professors and/or
Librarians, from a balance of academic disciplines including the
Libraries. [AMENDED 5/8/17]
X.7.1.2. Staff support for the Council shall be designated by
the Provost. [ADDED BY AMENDMENT 5/2/05]
X.7.2. The Council shall recommend to the President individuals for
promotion in rank and/or continuing appointment, in accordance with the
Guidelines Concerning Promotion and Continuing Appointment and the
Policies of the Board of Trustees.
X.7.3. The Council shall examine all files containing documents
pertaining to individual applications for promotion and/or continuing
appointment prior to their being transmitted to the President, to
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determine that they conform to the Guidelines Concerning Promotion
and Continuing Appointment. If a file is found to deviate from the
Guidelines, the Council shall direct that remedies be made if feasible,
and shall otherwise note the deficiencies and their possible effect on
the recommendation, and so advise the President, the appropriate Vice
President, the dean (where applicable), the chair (where applicable),
and the candidate. [SECTION X.7.3 REVISED BY AMENDMENT 3/14/05]
X.7.4.A quorum shall consist of five members (of whom at least three
must be Professors and/or Librarians). [ADDED By AMENDMENT 5/8/17; REVISED
BY AMENDMENT 3/25/19]
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X.7.5. The Council shall consider and make recommendations to the
Senate concerning all matters of policy and procedure pertaining to
the applications of faculty members for promotion and/or continuing
appointment, except when a matter of policy or procedure is mandated
in a negotiated contract between the State and the University's
professional staff.
X.7.6. The Council’s deliberations on individual cases shall normally be
closed to visitors. Council meetings to discuss policy issues shall
normally be open to members of the University community. The chair
shall post the agenda for such meetings in advance.
X.8. COUNCIL ON LIBRARIES, INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND COMPUTING
X.8.1. Composition
X.8.1.1. The Chief Information Officer, ex officio
X.8.1.2._ The Dean and Director of University Libraries, ex officio
X.8.1.3. The Director of the Institute for Teaching, Learning &
Academic Excellence, ex officio [REVISED BY AMENDMENT, 12/15/09]
X.8.1.4. At least 6 but not more than 8 Teaching Faculty, at least
4 of whom must be Senators, representing a variety of academic
disciplines and campus locations and including at least one
member from the University Libraries
X.8.1.5. At least 1 but not more than 3 Professional Faculty
X.8.1.6. One Graduate Student
X.8.1.7. One Undergraduate Student, who must be a Senator
X.8.1.8. No more than 2 voting members selected from Faculty
or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.8.1.9 Staff support for the Council shall be designated by the Chief
Information Officer.
[ADDED BY AMENDMENT 5/2/05]
X.8.2. The Council shall review plans and recommend policies for the
development and operation of informational systems and technology
and library facilities and usage on each campus of the University.
X.8.3. The Council shall have two standing committees.
X.8.4. The Library Committee
X.8.4.1. The Committee shall consist of at least 6 but not more
than 8 members, with at least 3 from the Council.
X.8.4.2. The chair of the Committee shall be elected by the
committee from among the eligible council members on the
committee. [REVISED BY AMENDMENT, 12/15/08]
X.8.4.3. The Committee shall develop and monitor policies and review
policy recommendations concerning the equitable allocation of the
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Libraries acquisition budget to support the University’s
undergraduate, graduate, and research programs.
X.8.4.4. The Committee shall examine current trends in publishing
and copyright and other legislation which may influence access to
scholarly information and changing University priorities, emerging
academic programs, and new information needs.
X.8.4.5. The Committee shall submit all recommendations for
approval to the Council. Policy changes are then brought to the
Senate if approved by the Council.
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X.8.5. The Information Technology Usage Policy Committee
X.8.5.1. The Committee shall consist of at least 6 but not more than
8 members, with at least 3 from the Council, including the Chief
Information Officer, ex officio, or designee. [REVISED BY AMENDMENT,
11/03/09]
X.8.5.2. The chair of the Committee shall be elected by the
committee from among the eligible council members on the
committee. [REVISED BY AMENDMENT, 12/15/09]
X.8.5.3. The Committee shall develop and monitor policies and
review policy recommendations for responsible computer,
networking, and telecommunications use in order to provide guidance
for faculty, staff, and students as well as to protect the interests of
the University. Such policies should address a broad spectrum of
information technology issues including access, copyright, privacy,
and security.
X.8.5.4. The Committee shall submit all recommendations for
approval to the Council. Policy changes are then brought to the
Senate if approved by the Council.
X.9. UNIVERSITY LIFE COUNCIL
X.9.1. Composition
X.9.1.1. The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee, ex
officio* [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 12/11/17]
X.9.1.2. The Vice President for Finance and Administration or
designee, ex officio [TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.9.1.3. The Director of Athletics or designee, ex officio
[POSITION ADDED BY AMENDMENT 12/11/17]
X.9.1.4. The Coordinator of EAP, or designee, ex officio
[TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.9.1.5. At least six and not more than eight Teaching Faculty,
(at least four must be Senators)
X.9.1.6. At least two and not more than four Professional Faculty (one
must be a Senator)
X.9.1.7. At least one, but not more than two Classified Staff Members
[POSITION REVISED / ADDED BY AMENDMENT 12/11/17]
X.9.1.8. At least one, but no more than three graduate students
[REVISED BY AMENDMENT 12/11/17]
X.9.1.9. At least one but not more than three undergraduate
students (one must be a Senator)
X.9.1.10. No more than two voting members selected from Faculty or
Staff who are not undergraduate or graduate students or Voting
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Faculty. [REVISED BY AMENDMENT 12/11/17]
X.9.1.11. Staff support for the Council shall be designated by the
Vice President for Student Success. [SECTION ADDED BY
AMENDMENT 5/2/05]
X.9.1.12. *Ex Officio officers will provide a monthly
departmental/divisional report to the ULC. [SECTION ADDED BY
AMENDMENT 12/11/17]
X.9.2. The Council shall be responsible for the quality of university life
outside of the formal instruction program, which is recognized to have
significant impact on the overall educational
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experience. The Council shall recommend policies to the Senate
governing university community conditions that foster an inclusive
experience for teaching faculty, professional faculty, classified staff
and students that promotes an environment conducive to academic
success, social engagement, personal growth, and well-being. [REVISED
BY AMENDMENT 12/11/17]
X.9.3. The Council shall develop policies and make recommendation to
the Senate on matters regarding off campus student life. The Council
shall appoint representatives(s) to the Committee on University
Community Relations, who shall report back to the Council.
X.9.4. The Council shall take under consideration and make
recommendations concerning the operations of the University Auxiliary
Services, and other service providers.
X.9.5. The Committee on Health, Safety and Well-being
X.9.5.1. Composition
X.9.5.1.1. The Director of Student Health Services, or designee, ex
officio
X.9.5.1.2. The Chief of University Police, or designee, ex officio
X.9.5.1.3. The Coordinator of EAP, or designee, ex officio [TITLE
CHANGED BY AMENDMENT
04/27/15]
X.9.5.1.4. At least 4 but not more than 6 Faculty members,
including at least 3 members of the Council and at least one
Teaching Faculty member from the School of Public Health.
X.9.5.1.5. At least 2 students, one of whom is resident on campus.
X.9.5.1.6. | No more than 2 voting members selected from
Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.9.5.2. The committee shall review information on levels and
trends, resources and policies for improving university community
indicators of mental and physical health, safety and well being of the
university community. The committee shall make recommendations
to the Council for improving specific programs and overall university
community conditions to enhance health and quality of life at the
university.
X.9.5.3. The Committee shall appoint members to University safety
committees and shall convene special committees to deal with
individual safety concerns as needed.
[SECTION X.9.6. REMOVED BY AMENDMENT 12/11/17]
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X.
9.7. The Committee on Residential Life
X.9.7.1. Composition
X.9.7.1.1. The Director of Residential Life or designee, ex officio
X,9.7.1.2. The Vice President for Finance and Administration or
designee, ex officio
[TITLE CHANGED BY AMENDMENT 04/27/15]
X.9.7.1.3. At least 4 but not more than 6 Faculty members,
including at least 3 members of the Council and at least two
Teaching Faculty
X.9.7.1.4. | At least 1 but not more than 2 students
X.9.7.1.5. No more than 2 voting members selected from
Faculty or Staff who are not students or Voting Faculty.
X.9.7.2. The Committee shall review and make policy
recommendations on all matters concerning the quality of student
life in campus residences, including both academic and co-curricular
activities taking place in University residential areas.
NOTE: Section XI: IRCUAP was removed from the Charter during 2012-2013.
Please refer to the Governance Council minutes of April 1, 2013.
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Senate Charter updated as of 02/20/2018
