11. Conclusion

The modern academic enterprise requires a diversity of faculty roles to address research, scholarship, and creative work, teaching (both traditional and applied), program administration, and service. The growing complexity and exacting standards of academic work along with economic pressures and the need to react rapidly to new curricular demands has led to the creation of faculty positions outside the traditional tenure structure. NTT faculty are now established and important contributors in postsecondary education. Their work, however, has often been undervalued, causing a perception of “second-class citizenship.” Evaluation criteria and opportunities for career advancement have been insufficient or lacking.

This Task Force found that Boston University NTT faculty are highly qualified professionals, dedicated teachers, and researchers. Some are among the longest serving and most highly respected faculty of the University. Recognizing their work and creating a career path and incentives for professional advancement are essential for the long-term success of Boston University. The differences between tenured/tenure-track faculty and non-tenure-track faculty are real and will persist. The important point to recognize is that both their contributions are needed for a diverse and rich academic experience. The process of creating clear policies and procedures to recognize and promote NTT faculty is under way at many of BU’s colleges. It is the hope of this Task Force that this will continue and ensure a climate of collegiality and collaboration.