9.A General Principles

In conjunction with teaching, scholarship, and research, faculty participation in service activities within and outside the University constitute the core responsibilities of a public university. Service to community groups, and to local, state, national, and international governmental groups, not only provides these organizations with faculty expertise but also helps to fulfill the University's mission of service to the people of Michigan and the world. Faculty service on appropriate unit and University committees and participation in administrative tasks are essential to the effective functioning of the University (see Chapter 4, "Faculty Roles in Governance"), as is the mentoring of junior faculty colleagues. Leadership of professional organizations and participation in other professional activities such as reviewing works submitted to professional journals or conferences are also important to the mission of the University, as well as to the advancement of one's profession or discipline.

The University takes great pride in the various service activities of its faculty and supports and encourages participation. Faculty should check with their dean, director, or chair about that unit's policies concerning the evaluation of service activities as part of reviews for merit salary increases and tenure and promotion.

Because the University places a high value on its internal and external relations, offices are available centrally and within many of the schools and colleges to help faculty work with news media; community groups; local, state, and federal policy makers; and prospective donors. For example, U-M News Service consults with faculty about media relations and is equipped to provide portrait photographs and biographical data about faculty members to news media, as well as press releases about accomplishments in faculty research. See Section 9.C, "Communications and Media Relations," and Section 9.D, "Faculty Statements."

Another important resource is the Community Assistance Directory. This directory is an online database that features hundreds of UM-sponsored research projects and other initiatives throughout the state of Michigan. Using the Community Assistance Directory database, Michigan residents can learn about UM resources in their community. Visit the website at <www.state.outreach.umich.edu> for more information. See also Section 8.B.3, "Edward Ginsberg Center for Community Service and Learning."

Faculty Handbook: Faculty as Representatives of the University/Service: