Emeritus Status

In recognition of distinguished service to Bethel University’s academic community, emeritus status may be awarded to faculty departing a full-time appointment under honorable circumstances. Designation as professor emeritus is not a recognition of seniority but of sustained and distinguished service to the University, their discipline, and Christ’s kingdom. Each candidate is reviewed individually and recommended by an associate provost or their designate. Upon the subsequent recommendation of the President and the Provost, the Board of Trustees may then grant emeritus status.

Individuals must either be at least 60 years of age and have completed at least 10 years of full-time employment with Bethel as of August 1 of the next academic year, or have completed at least 20 years of full-time employment with Bethel as of August 1 of the next academic year. Emeritus status may also be awarded to professional librarians (as defined in the Faculty Handbook), academic deans and associate provosts, and administrators who serve on the President’s Cabinet. The President reserves the right to award emeritus status to other individuals at their discretion.

Nominations for emeritus status may be initiated by individuals, programs, departments, or administrators and be communicated to the Associate Provost for the nominee’s area. Nominations should briefly describe the individual’s contributions to Bethel University in teaching, scholarship, service, and collegiality.

In addition to retaining library privileges and being listed as faculty emeritus in University publications, individuals with emeritus status may take part in academic processions.

Office of the Provost
Approved by CAS Faculty Senate and CAPS/SEM/GS Faculty Affairs Committee, April 2021