Discretionary Leave

A. Eligibility

The University, at its sole discretion, may grant Discretionary Leave to appointed, non-union employees. Discretionary Leave without pay also may be granted to tenured faculty members and other professional staff with three or more years of service for study or research, educational travel, other employment that would either enhance the employee’s service to the University or provide a significant community service, or any other reason where such leave will be mutually advantageous to the employee and the University. Except as otherwise required by law, the University is not required to grant Discretionary Leave in any particular case.

B. Notice of Discretionary Leave

In order to be considered for Discretionary Leave, an eligible employee must comply with the FMLA Leave requirements regarding coordination with other leave notice and, if applicable, medical certification. Faculty and professional staff applying for non-medical Discretionary Leave should submit written requests for such leave at least four months in advance. If the employee fails to comply with such requirements, the University reserves the right to deny the request for Discretionary Leave.

C. Reinstatement

The University reservs the right to deny reinstatement of any employee who takes Discretionary Leave except as the law may otherwise require. If an employee’s original position cannot be held open during a leave of absence, the University will make reasonable efforts to place the employee in a position of equivalent status and salary.