Discipline Of A Tenured Faculty Member

A tenured faculty member was disciplined for allegations of poor performance and misconduct. The member asserted that they had been compelled to perform work that was not part of their work assignment and that, furthermore, since they never received an offer and acceptance letter (i.e. an individual contract) their work obligations were not made clear. The Grievance Committee reviewed the case and assessed that the discipline was unwarranted since the member's formal work obligations had never been explicated. A grievance was filed and a level I grievance decision was rendered against the faculty member by the UMB Administration. The FSU proposed a settlement to the grievance but the parties were unable to reach an agreement. A level II grievance was filed (i.e. a grievance filed with the President’s Office) and a decision was again rendered against the grievant. The FSU and the grievant are exploring settlement options but may seek to file for arbitration.