Faculty Senate Mission and Purpose

I. MISSION AND PURPOSE 
 
Faculty are the foundation of Texas State University, providing the excellence in teaching, research, and service upon which the quality and reputation of the University are built. The interests of all academic pursuits are best served when faculty expertise and skills are incorporated into governance and decision-making of the University.  The Faculty Senate serves as the primary advocate for the collective interests of the faculty to the University on matters relating to academic freedom, institutional policy, and the general welfare of the university community.  
 

The purpose of the Faculty Senate shall be to:

*   Protect academic freedom: Advocate for the principles of academic freedom and shared governance; 
*    Advocate: Promote faculty viewpoints on all issues in which faculty are stakeholders 
*    Initiate recommendations: Make recommendations on University policy and governance issues of concern to faculty; 
*    Solicit engagement: Solicit faculty perceptions, suggestions, and recommendations on all university-related matters to ensure a representative voice; 
*   Encourage data-driven decision-making: Gather and utilize accurate data for use in advocating positions taken by faculty; 
*    Promote communication: Facilitate communication among faculty, and between faculty and other University stakeholders; 
*   Improve conditions: Advocate for increases in faculty salaries, career development, and working conditions; 
*    Assure the opportunity for faculty participation in fiscal planning and decision-making. 
 
II. GOVERNING DOCUMENT 
 
The Faculty Senate Bylaws shall serve as the sole governing document for the operations, membership, and legal procedures of the Faculty Senate. All procedures regarding member composition, member selection, officer appointment, the conducting of meetings and content of meetings are outlined in the bylaws. Procedures for amending the Faculty Senate Bylaws are outlined within the bylaws themselves.