The governing board is free from undue influence from political, religious, or other external bodies, and protects the institution from such influence.
[Compliance]
Narrative:
The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) is in compliance with Principle 3.2.4 because the Board of Trustees of The University of Alabama System is free from undue influence from political, religious, or other external bodies, and it protects the University from such influence. The three universities of The University of Alabama System share policies addressing the selection, composition, responsibilities, and functioning of the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama Board Manual addresses political activities directly through Board Rule 304 and indirectly through Board Rule 106. Essentially, the Board Rules state that the Board of Trustees, senior administrators, and University personnel must exercise their responsibilities in a manner that is in the best interest of the institution, uncluttered by other considerations and unencumbered by conflicting obligations or interests. Further, the policies prohibit any actions that are illegal and improper as well as those that may create the appearance of impropriety. The Board's support of academic freedom is demonstrated by its approval of the UAH Faculty Handbook.
The Constitution and statutes of the State of Alabama define the terms and conditions related to the selection, appointment, and term-of-service of members of the Board of Trustees of The University of Alabama System. These requirements are reflected in Board Bylaws, Article I, Section 2. Under those provisions, a vacancy on the Board is filled through election by the remaining Trustees and confirmed by the Senate. Only if the Senate rejects a Board nominee does the Senate select the new Trustee; however, such an action seldom has occurred in the past twenty years. Following this procedure, Board members are substantially protected from undue influence by the Alabama Legislature.
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Source
Location
1
Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama Board Manual Bylaws, Article I, Section 2, Election and Term of Office
2
Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama Board Manual, Board Rule 106, Ethics and Conflicts of Interest
3
Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama Board Manual, Board Rule 304, Political Activities of University Personnel
4
Board of Trustees of the University of Alabama Board Members
