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The Negative Tenure Decision

Sally Amero
The National Institutes of Health

Maureen Brandon

Idaho State University

I

t happens — some of us don’t get tenure, few of us

discuss not getting it, and nobody is prepared to deal

with an unfavorable outcome. Although the reasons

vary with each individual, a negative tenure decision

can evolve in one of two ways. First, the departmental

chairperson or promotions committee may be unwill-

ing to support the application for tenure, particularly if

certain aspects are weak in comparison to other tenure

packets. Second, the request may be denied by admin-

istrative officials or committees after it leaves the

department. In either case, the negative decision can

present a major stumbling block to your career, or a

new beginning — the choice is yours. This article sug-

gests strategies for a new beginning.

Collect Information

The first thing a faculty member who learns of a neg-

ative tenure decision needs to do is gather reliable

information and formulate a course of action. If the

outcome is a surprise, explanations should be sought

from the departmental chairperson, other senior facul-

ty, and administration officials.

Consider Appeal

An appeal with a reversed decision is possible in the

year following a negative tenure decision, if the deficits

are appropriately addressed. Was the candidate’s fund-

ing level comparable to those of other junior faculty? Is

the publication record acceptable? Were letters of refer-

ence favorable? Do not overlook the value of informal

support systems. Senior colleagues in other depart-

CHAPTER 7 • TENURE 75

Do not overlook the value of informal

support systems.