Introduction

This handbook is applicable to employees of Bethel University who are in the “faculty” category. It is intended to make clear the policies and procedures that guide the operation of the school. Four major loci of decision-making are prominent in the governance structure of the school: Delegates from the churches of the Baptist General Conference/Converge Worldwide, the Board of Trustees, the administration, and the faculty. In every sector, decision-making consistent with the objectives of the institution is encouraged at the furthest possible level from central administration. Input into those decisions is sought by policy from those who will be affected by them and who have competence in the areas involved. Normally any substantive changes in this handbook as they affect faculty members will be reviewed with the Faculty Policy Review Committee before they are issued and put into effect. When employment agreements refer to the Faculty Handbook, the reference is to the updated handbook in effect at the time the agreement is issued. (See Introduction to Benefits.) This handbook is not intended to be a contract, express or implied, but an informative document.

Effective August 1, 2021