Popular prof interviewing for new job

By Leonora Caparas Though English Professor Gregg Camfield's application for tenure is currently being reconsidered, he has taken the week off from teaching in order to attend several job interviews at other colleges and universities, according to English Department Chairperson Wendy Steiner. The teaching assistants in Camfield's two courses announced yesterday that students would have no classes this week because Camfield was searching for other employment opportunities. Steiner said Camfield's actions were not out of the ordinary for a tenure candidate. "It's normal for anyone worried about not getting tenure," she said. "He's not on leave. He's away for a few days. His courses are proceeding as usual." Camfield was out of town and unavailable for comment. Last March, a School of Arts and Sciences Personnel Committee denied Camfield's application for tenure, despite the strong backing of his department and adamant support of his students. Like any assistant professor, Camfield was eligible to be recommended to the Personnel Committee for tenure after six years at the University. When his application was turned down, the English Department chose to resubmit its endorsement for a second time. He was offered his second and final opportunity to receive tenure in November, when the process began over again. "[Camfield's case] hasn't quite moved on," Steiner said, "We're still compiling the dossier." After approval from a professor's individual department, tenure cases are sent to the appropriate subcommittee of the Personnel Committee of the School of Arts and Sciences. Camfield's dossier will go to the humanities subcommittee. If the group approves the department's recommendation, the case moves on to the full committee, comprised of tenured faculty from the entire College of Arts and Sciences. "[How long it takes] really depends on the number in committee," said Mary Emore, associate director of Administrative Affairs in SAS. Should he fail to receive tenure after his seventh year, Camfield will be asked to leave the University. Steiner said it could be several months before Camfield's case comes to a close. The Personnel Committee is currently considering the cases of 12 associate professors recommended by their departments for tenure, Emore said. At present, one case is awaiting the review of the full committee.