Hardin-Simmons University Reinstates Tenure

On Thursday, February 6, 2025, the Hardin-Simmons University (HSU) Board of Trustees officially approved the reinstatement of tenure, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence and faculty development.

“Hardin-Simmons is blessed to continue to provide excellent opportunities in higher education for students and professionals alike to continue their education and prepare for careers in areas where there are key workplace shortages in Texas and around the country,” said Christopher McNair, Ph.D., Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Hardin-Simmons University. “The reinstatement of tenure will allow HSU to continue to attract and retain top faculty while ensuring quality in teaching and academic standards.”

The decision follows nearly two years of a collaborative effort involving a special committee encompassing members of the Board of Trustees, university administration, and faculty representing a broad range of academic disciplines. Together, they re-envisioned a tenure system designed to:

• Recognize and reward the dedication of HSU faculty who invest their careers in shaping the lives of students,
• Strengthen faculty retention and attract top-tier educators, and
• Maintain rigorous academic and professional standards.

A key component of the newly approved tenure system is the introduction of regular post-tenure review, which ensures continuous faculty engagement and accountability. Additionally, the Criteria for Excellence in Teaching, originally adopted by HSU faculty in 1975, has been amended to explicitly include the integration of Christian faith with classroom instruction, further reinforcing the university’s mission.

The revised tenure system received overwhelming support from faculty in the weeks before the Board’s unanimous approval, demonstrating a shared commitment to fostering a thriving academic community at Hardin-Simmons University.

To view open faculty positions at HSU, click here.