Distinguished SFU Professor (A 32.03)

Dear University Faculty and Staff,

The purpose of the Distinguished SFU Professor program (policy A 32.03) is to recognize SFU faculty members of distinction who have achieved exceptional performance and distinguished accomplishments relative to their rank and years of service. This is a joint initiative of the Vice President, Academic (VPA) and Provost and the Vice President, Research and International (VPRI).

An amendment to Policy A 32.03 is recommended to allow Distinguished SFU Professors (Full Professors) to keep the title permanently (beyond the 5-year funding term), with a caveat that the VPA and VPRI have the authority to revoke the title should exceptional circumstances arise.

Rationale for change:

  • The title of “Distinguished SFU Professor of [Specialty Subject Area]” is earned for a body of work achieved over a long period of time, an accomplishment that is not diminished after 5 years of being first awarded the title. If the same individual was nominated again in subsequent years, it would be for the same, or for even bigger achievements;
  • The primary purpose of this policy is (i) to recognize faculty members of high distinction, and (ii) to increase retention of such individuals;
  • If a faculty member loses the title of Distinguished SFU Professor after a 5-year term, this is not in alignment with the main intention of the policy.

Another recommended change is to include the titles “Distinguished SFU Associate Professor of [Specialty Subject Area]” and “Distinguished SFU Assistant Professor of [Specialty Subject Area].” It is proposed that these titles expire 5 years after the date of the initial appointment unless an additional 5-year term has been approved. All other changes are editorial or for clarification.  

We invite you to review the proposed policy amendments below. Please send your feedback and questions to vprdir@sfu.ca by March 15, 2024. 

Input provided is collected under the authority of the University Act and SFU Policy on University Policies and Procedures (B10.00). This information is collected for the purpose of engaging in community consultation, which may result in recommended changes to a policy.

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