The University of Portland granted tenure to five professors last week. To receive tenure means that a professor has a permanent position at the University after being evaluated by the Committee on Rank and Tenure based on teaching, scholarship, University and community involvement and personal attributes, explained the committee’s Chair Michael Connolly. The committee makes a recommendation to the Provost, who makes a recommendation to the President, who makes the final decision.
The Beacon chatted with the five professors about why they like working at UP and what it means for them to be granted tenure.
Anne Santiago, Political Science
“There are three main categories of things I love about working at UP: Working with students and colleagues who are always inspiring and interesting to get to know, having a great deal of independence to shape my courses and work on each iteration to make it more relevant within our global political context and simply being at a school that values many things I value.
Tenure means security for the future for my family. It means I have a continued obligation to do my best work, but also that I know I can rest assured that I'm a valued member of the community. It certainly does not mean resting on one's accomplishments, because striving to be a great teacher, colleague and researcher is still expected, and rightly so!”
Alice Gates, Social Work
“The best part about working at UP is having the chance to work with students who are enthusiastic and committed to using their education for social change.
To earn tenure feels like a vote of confidence from your colleagues and the institution. I'm grateful for the hard work of the Rank and Tenure Committee and all of my colleagues who have provided support along the way.”
Christine Weilhoefer, Biology
“The best part of working at UP is that I get to teach classes in subjects that I am passionate about, for example, Wetlands Ecology. In addition, I love getting to work closely with students, both in my classes and on my research projects.
I am very excited to be awarded tenure at UP because it means that I will be able to work here a long time. I will get to continue to teach classes that I love and work with UP students, who are a continual source of inspiration and excitement.”
Ellinor Sullivan, Biology
“For me, the best part about working at UP is the people. I greatly enjoy by intersections with students and colleagues.
Being granted tenure means security and academic freedom.”
Sarah Weiger, English
“My favorite thing about UP: My coworkers in the English department and my students!
My favorite thing about tenure is the trust and encouragement I feel from my colleagues to keep experimenting with new strategies and ideas in my research and in the classroom. I feel very lucky to have that encouragement and trust.”
