I. Introduction
I.B. Message from the President
Dear Colleagues:
As I begin my service to James Madison University, I want to take this opportunity to affirm the principles of collaboration and shared responsibility that have built this institution into a strong and healthy university. When we work together to improve the structure of the academy and join forces in our efforts to resolve problems, the entire university benefits from the work we can accomplish as a team. JMU has a mission that is stated in terms of the combined focus of the entire institution: "We are a community committed to preparing students to be educated and enlightened citizens who lead productive and meaningful lives." It is not the effort of a few, but the efforts of the entire faculty, staff and administration that conjoin in addressing the task. We all have a role to play in the quest for realization of our mission.
The 2012-13 Faculty Handbook is a prime example of that sort of united effort. Faculty members and administrators have responded together, rising to the challenge of clarifying and refining the policies and procedures that govern the relationship between the institution and its most valuable asset, its faculty. This handbook is a living document, subject to continuous well-reasoned improvement, and I hope you will find it a useful tool to guide you in the duties and responsibilities, as well as the privileges and benefits, of your service to the university.
I also want to specifically thank the members of the Faculty Handbook Committee for their work on the improvement of the document this year. The improvements to the handbook are appreciated, and their serious attention to the importance of their work is recognized.
I look forward to working with you all, and call on you all to continue to provide your best efforts to strengthen and improve this handbook, the university and our responsibilities to our students.
Jonathan R. Alger,
President
