Policy

1. University faculty members are citizens and, like other citizens, are free to engage in political activities so far as they are able to do so consistent with their obligations as teachers and scholars.

2. Many kinds of political activity (i.e., holding part-time office in a political party, seeking election to any office under circumstances that do not require extensive campaigning, or serving by appointment or election in a part-time political office) are consistent with effective service as a member of a faculty. Other kinds of political activity (e.g., intensive campaigning for elective office, serving in a state legislature, or serving a limited term in a full-time position) will require that the professor seek a leave of absence.

3. In recognition of the legitimacy and social importance of political activity by faculty members, Ohio University will provide institutional arrangements to permit political activity similar to those applicable to other public or private extramural service. Such arrangements may include the reduction of the faculty member's workload or a leave of absence for the duration of an election campaign or a term of office, accompanied by equitable adjustment of compensation.

4. A faculty member seeking leave should recognize a primary obligation to the institution and to the individual's growth as an educator and scholar; the faculty member should be mindful of the problem which a leave of absence can create for the administration, faculty colleagues, and students; and the faculty member should not abuse the privilege by too frequent or too late application or too extended a leave. If adjustments are made, such as a reduction of workload, the faculty members should expect such adjustments to be limited to a total of one year, with the possible option for a second year.

5. A leave of absence incident to political activity should come under the institution's normal rules and regulations for leaves of absence. Such a leave should not affect unfavorably the tenure status of a faculty member, except that time spent on such leave from academic duties need not count as probationary service. The terms of a leave and its effect on the professor's status should be set forth in writing.