As might have been anticipated, the distribution of exceptional merit this year has had a few hiccups.  The Provost approached the MSP to have a discussion about how to deal with the problems that arose.  Effectively there were two issues: 1. certain nationally recognized awards to faculty were recognized by some CPC’s but not all, creating a fairness problem; and 2. some colleges under-recommended faculty for awards, making proportionate distribution of awards across colleges problematic. 

The MSP agreed to a one year fix that is a temporary waiver to the clause in the agreement that only allows the Provost to approve awards from the pool recommended by the CPC’s.  The new stipulation is that the Provost can approve awards to nominees not recommended by the CPC in this single year after consultation with the CPC's.  The Provost is preparing a list of candidates, and will approach the CPC’s shortly for consultation.

The MSP and the administration will engage in a more thorough discussion about the process for nomination and recommendation of exceptional merit awards in future years.  We anticipate that occurring early in the Spring semester, and being complete well before the next round of nominations.

        Randall Phillis, MSP President