Faculty and Staff Handbook

VISION STATEMENT

William Paterson University is committed to excellence in all its programs, functions, and services. Members of the University community strive to achieve the highest professional and ethical standards, and work together to realize the institution=s vision.

The University is dedicated to maintaining a student-centered environment that promotes the academic and professional success of students. Through high quality educational programs and opportunities provided by distinguished faculty and staff, students will become lifelong learners and seek knowledge, competencies and skills that will make them responsible and productive citizens committed to improving their communities. Effective academic and extracurricular programming, including innovative course scheduling, and support services will be provided to meet the needs of all students.

As the cornerstone of the University, academic excellence is advanced through rigorous educational programs that challenge students to high levels of achievement. Excellence is maintained through program reviews and continuous planning and assessment of curricular and student development initiatives. The research and scholarly endeavors of faculty will be supported, and the Library=s role as the center of the University=s learning environment will be strengthened.

The University will maintain state-of-the-art technology with respect to both the infrastructure and its application in teaching, learning, research/scholarship, and administrative functions. To help prepare students in an increasingly interdependent Aglobal village@ and world economy, international education will be promoted through appropriate curricular initiatives throughout the campus.

In the University=s outreach efforts, programs and opportunities will be offered to help address the educational, economic, social, and cultural needs of the state and surrounding region, and also continue to contribute to the economic and social development of the City of Paterson. Mutually beneficial relationships will be pursued with schools, private and public agencies, and other institutions of higher education.

Recognizing that diversity and multiculturalism are essential to academic excellence, the University affirms its commitment to multiculturalism and diversity among faculty, students, staff, administrators and programs. A climate of civility, tolerance and respect for others will be maintained, and appropriate measures will be taken to effectively deal with any form of discrimination.