Having an election is a serious moment. Having an unexpected vacancy could be a crisis. Having bylaws for guidance? Priceless.

Gwen Kay, University Faculty Senate President

  Heather Maldonado, who was elected as the next President of the University Faculty Senate, has informed us that she is starting a position at Keuka College effective June 1. This results in the unusual situation that we are left without a President-elect. We wish Heather luck in her new position, and turn to our bylaws for guidance about how to proceed. In consultation with our parliamentarian, Henry Flax, two options emerged: follow procedures for filling a vacancy (ARTICLE III. OFFICERS, 3); or call a special meeting of the body for a new election (ARTICLE VII. MEETINGS, 1, 2, 3). The former option would mean an interim president from July 1 through our next regular meeting (October plenary); the latter would mean having someone in place on July 1. After careful consideration, and discussion with the Executive Committee, we have decided that the best approach is to fill the vacancy of the President-elect before July 1. Our bylaws allow for a special meeting, called by the Executive Committee; an election to fill the vacancy would be the purpose of said special meeting.

  Our bylaws provide instructions for how to conduct an election, how to fill vacancies, and more (ARTICLE IX. NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS). We will have a slightly compressed time frame for this process. The Nominations and Elections Committee, chaired by Pamela Wolfskill (Stony Brook), is now soliciting nominations, along with the one-page attendant statement and brief, one-page, c.v. Nominations, and supporting documentation, are due by noon, May 28. All candidate information will be sent to senators on June 1. Then we will hold a special meeting of the University Faculty Senate on June 17, during which the Nominations and Elections Committee will provide an opportunity for each candidate to speak to the body, have a question and answer period, and hold an election.  We will announce the results of this special election in this forum and through our social media outlets.

  I am committed to process. I am also committed to success, both of UFS and of my successor.