Given their role in curriculum, service, and scholarship, faculty should be consulted especially in the development and implementation of the educational component of the university budget. Early, ongoing and meaningful engagement in the overall university budget includes transparent sharing so that faculty can participate in decisions regarding expenditures, including especially those areas related to their expertise. When the Board or the Administration disagrees with decisions that are within faculty expertise (curriculum and faculty status), they should exercise their authority with extreme caution and communicate the reasoning behind their difference of perspective. Exempt and Classified Staff Central Washington University is committed to intentionally incorporating staff voices into the framework of CWU’s shared governance as a vital step toward cultivating a healthy and inclusive governance culture. Exempt and classified staff play an essential role in the university’s operations, supporting both students and the administrative functions across all divisions—including Student Engagement and Success, Finance and Administration, Academic Affairs, and the President’s Division. Their expertise and daily engagement with the university community position them as critical partners in shaping policies and initiatives, particularly those related to the student experience. To ensure meaningful participation, exempt and classified staff should be actively consulted during the development and implementation of various initiatives. Early, consistent, and purposeful involvement in relevant discussions allows staff to contribute their insights and influence decision-making processes within their areas of expertise. As with other university constituencies, staff input should be channeled primarily through their shared governance leadership groups. Transparent and ongoing communication between these leadership bodies and their constituents is essential to this process. Furthermore, exempt and classified staff governance leaders should be included in institutional planning efforts—such as the development of the university’s Vision, Mission, Values, Strategic Plan, and budget allocations. When appropriate, staff should also be invited to serve on task forces and committees where their perspectives will enrich conversations and contribute to more well-rounded, effective outcomes. Students At Central Washington University the student experience is the focus of our collective effort as we assist students in becoming “engaged professionals, active citizens, and lifelong learners.” As a result, the student voice is valuable in our governance environment and provides a perspective that is critical to our decision-making. Students
CWU Shared Governance
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