Background: This past year has seen faculty morale sink to a distressingly low level. A new Chancellor had sought to impose a faculty contract that many thought was unfair and not conducive to encouraging a collegial atmosphere in the CSU. The faculty overwhelmingly disapproved the proposed tentative agreement. Working conditions were then imposed that in many ways were more adverse than the rejected tentative agreement.

The result of this imposition of working conditions was a further deterioration of faculty morale. Discussions of possible faculty actions included strikes, work-to-rule provisions, and picketing.

A seemingly small event occurred at a meeting of the Cal Poly President's Cabinet that would have a profound effect on the course of contract negotiations. At this meeting of the President's Cabinet, the Chancellor referred to the CSU faculty in terms that questioned their work habits and commitments. Myron was the only faculty member present and in a message to the Chancellor called into question the appropriateness of the Chancellor's remarks. The resulting firestorm influenced the Chancellor to reconsider his position and to begin to listen to those with more experience within the CSU and with sensitivity to faculty quality and accomplishments. The result was a noticeable softening in the approach of the CSU to contract negotiations with the faculty. The Chancellor also challenged Myron to be part of the solution by requesting Myron's input into the contract process. Myron suggested a number of changes that influenced and improved the most recent tentative agreement.

Myron acted at risk to his reputation and career opportunities in challenging a Chancellor who had a history of successfully imposing his will on faculty in another system. Myron acted with integrity and without ego. His intent was simply to act as a spokesperson for the faculty in demanding respect and fair treatment for the faculty.

WHEREAS,     Myron Hood is an individual of uncommon integrity; and

WHEREAS,     Myron Hood has been a consistent and effective advocate demanding the respect and fair
                          treatment that faculty deserve and are necessary for a civil, collegial environment for all; and

WHEREAS,     Myron Hood has significantly and profoundly affected the faculty contract negotiations with
                          the CSU; and

WHEREAS,     Myron Hood has taken actions at considerable personal risk; therefore, be it

RESOLVED:     That the Academic Senate at Cal Poly commend Myron Hood for his extraordinary service on
                           behalf of the faculty; and be it further

RESOLVED:     That this resolution be permanently recorded in the minutes of the Academic Senate.
 
 

State of California

M e m o r a n d u m
 
 

To:     Myron Hood                                                                         Date: August 4, 1999
           Chair, Academic Senate
 
 

From:   Warren J. Baker                                                                    Copies: Paul J. Zingg
            President
 
 

Subject:     Response to AS 520-991AS--Resolution of Commendation for Myron Hood

I am pleased to acknowledge the above Resolution of the Academic Senate and to express appreciation for your service to the Academic Senate during the 1998-1999 academic year.