Wednesday, 12 September 2012 22:28

Following last year's controversy about academic freedom at the university, Faculty Senate discussed academic freedom at their regularly scheduled meeting Monday.

"I think many of us can agree that there has been a chill on this campus with regard to academic freedom and our faith in academic freedom especially in the classroom," English professor Jill Ehnenn said.

Last year, several faculty members voiced their complaints when tenured sociology professor Jammie Price was placed on administrative leave after students made seven allegations against Price, including engaging in "inappropriate speech and conduct" in the classroom.

There has been a lot of fear, complaints and questions regarding academic freedom since last year, Enhenn said.

"This is not an issue that just reflects the voices of five or six people," Enhenn said.

Faculty members expressed their concerns, questions and suggestions to the Faculty Senate and Provost of Academic Affairs Lori Gonzalez.

The administration will come up with answers regarding professors' questions about academic freedom, Gonzalez said.

Gonzalez said she is committed to academics and hopes to answer questions in a way that doesn't "pit administration against faculty."

"I just ask that you offer the benefit of the doubt until you can prove that we are not supporting academic freedom," Gonzalez said.

Read this article:

Academic freedom debate continues