School of Nursing: Policy and Process for Adjunct Appointments (Faculty Affairs)

Unit Policy

Title

School of Nursing: Policy and Process for Adjunct Appointments (Faculty Affairs)

Introduction

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to guide the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Nursing (SON) in the review and approval of adjunct faculty.

Scope

This policy applies to the appointment and reappointment of SON adjunct faculty.

Policy

Policy Statement

Adjunct faculty are valued collaborators who enrich the educational experiences of students and add value to the work of the SON. Adjunct status is conferred in recognition of voluntary and sustained professional contributions to the mission of the SON.

Adjunct status is appropriate for individuals who are furthering the work of the SON through engagement in teaching, research, service, supervising clinical activities, or other scholarly endeavors.

Adjunct status does not preclude the candidate from assuming other paid or unpaid roles at the School of Nursing or University.

Adjunct status is not appropriate for retired faculty who hold emeriti status or individuals making short-term or occasional contributions to the SON.

Appointments may be made at the level of adjunct professor, adjunct associate professor, adjunct assistant professor, and adjunct instructor. The assigned rank should be determined by applying criteria for SON permanent fixed-term faculty as outlined in SON: Standard on Appointment and Promotion (APR) for Fixed-Term Faculty.

The rank is recommended by the division chair with final approval by the dean.

Appointment Process

  1. In conjunction with a sponsoring faculty member, a candidate seeking an adjunct faculty appointment (new or renewal) should submit their information using the designated application form.
  2. Annual application deadlines are determined by the School and communicated by assigned division manager.
  3. The division chair recommends the rank and, if renewal, the length of term. Initial appointments are for one year, and renewals may be for terms of 1–3 years.
Review of Adjunct Candidates
  1. Prior to scheduled review cycles, assigned faculty affairs division managers distribute candidate materials to designated faculty sponsors in accordance with SON adjunct faculty procedures.
  2. Once candidate applications and sponsorship statements are completed, candidates are reviewed by division chair, who provides recommended rank and term length.
  3. Division manager submits confirmed recommendations to the dean for final approval.
  4. Recommendations are forwarded to SON Human Resources.
  5. Individuals approved for adjunct faculty status will be coded in the HR system as “Contingent Workers.” They are not considered employees and require only a credentials check and criminal background check. An I-9 is not required.
  6. Following clearance, appointment letters are prepared by Division Managers, signed by the division chair, and sent to candidates. Division manager tracks completion, updates records, notifies the sponsoring faculty member, and ensures the SON Adjunct Faculty Directory is updated.
Appeal Process for Adjunct Candidate

If an adjunct faculty member wishes to review any portion of their application materials or has questions about the outcome of their review, they should contact SON Human Resources, who will facilitate appropriate follow-up with School leadership.

Contact Information

Policy Contact

School of Nursing Faculty Affairs and/or Human Resources office.

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