Emeriti Status, Granting Faculty and Staff 2.9-1

Introduction

The Board of Control may confer emeriti status to recognize and honor distinguished services and contributions of retired faculty and staff. This designation reflects the individual’s exemplary dedication to the mission, values, and advancement of the University.

Eligibility and Criteria

  Faculty Emeriti Status - A faculty member may be granted emeriti status upon meeting the following criteria: 

1. Retired from SVSU;
2. Served a minimum of ten years of full-time as a faculty member;
3. Attained the highest rank available within their appointment type and have outstanding records of university citizenship, free from significant disciplinary action; and
4. Achieved a record of excellence in teaching, scholarly or creative work, and service. Factors to be considered include:
   • Leadership in curriculum or program development.
   • Recognition for academic or professional accomplishments that enhance the University’s reputation.
   • Meaningful engagement with students, both inside and outside the classroom.
   • Notable contributions to the discipline, University committees, or community partnerships.
   • Consistent performance exceeding the standard expectations of a faculty member.

   Staff Emeriti Status - A staff member may be granted emeriti status upon meeting the following criteria:

1. Retired from SVSU;
2. Served a minimum of ten years full-time service in a position of significant responsibility;
3. Attained an outstanding record of university citizenship, free from significant disciplinary action; and
4. Achieved a record of exemplary service to the University and its students.  Among factors to be considered are:
   • Evidence of high standards in the performance of all duties.
   • Leadership in the improvement or development of University programs or services.
   • Extensive involvement with students in academic or extra-curricular activities.
   • Professional recognitions/achievements that bring distinction to the University, and contributions to the betterment of services to students and the public.
   • Demonstrated commitment to the University community that exceeds the standard expectations for members of the staff.

Process for Nomination and Selection 

1. Nomination:
   • Faculty: Nominations shall originate within the academic department and be endorsed by the dean of the college. The nomination must then be reviewed and supported by the Vice President for Academic Affairs/Provost.
   • Staff: Nominations shall be initiated by the administrative division or a lateral peer and endorsed by the supervisor. The nomination must then be reviewed and supported by the divisional vice president.
2. Human Resources Review:
   • All nominations must be routed through the Chief Human Resource Officer for confirmation of eligibility, documentation verification, and alignment with University policy.
3. President's Leadership Team Review:
   • Following the human resources review, nominations are presented to the President’s leadership team for institutional review and endorsement. This team will evaluate nominations for consistency with University values and standards of excellence.
4. Recommendation to the Board of Control:
   • The President reviews nominations endorsed by the leadership team and may recommend individuals for emeriti status to the Board of Control for final approval.
5. Posthumous Awards:
   • Emeriti status may be granted posthumously if the individual passes away while employed or within one year following retirement.
6. Timing
   • Nominations may not be submitted prior to the retirement date of the faculty or staff member.
   • Emeriti status is typically awarded within one year of retirement.

Privileges 

Emeriti members are granted the following privileges: 

1. Full access to library resources.
2. Continued use of university email and related services.
3. University identification card.
4. Parking privileges in accordance with university policies.
5. Access to recreational, wellness, and health services and facilities.
6. Invitations to certain alumni gatherings, institutional celebrations, and University-sponsored events

Revocation

Faculty - Emeriti status may be revoked for misconduct or other compelling facts and circumstances that become known after emeriti status is conferred. The conduct must be of such a nature that if known at the time, emeriti status would not have been conferred. Vice President for Academic Affairs/Provost may initiate revocation of emeriti status by making a written request to the President. The faculty member must be notified and given an opportunity to respond within thirty days to the Provost.  The Provost will recommend to the President whether emeriti status should be revoked.  The final the final decision whether to revoke the status rests with the University President.

Staff - Emeriti status may be revoked for misconduct or other compelling facts and circumstances that become known after emeriti status is conferred. The conduct must be of such a nature that if known at the time, emeriti status would not have been conferred. The division Vice President may initiate revocation of emeriti status by making a written request to the President. The staff member must be notified and given an opportunity to respond within thirty days to the division Vice President.  The division vice president will recommend to the President whether emeriti status should be revoked.  The final decision whether to revoke the status rests with the President.