Your Tenure Package

Contributed by R. Mark Leckie (University of Massachusetts, Amherst) and Kristen St. John (James Madison University)

Eolian cross-beds, Navajo Sandstone

The tenure package you submit is your opportunity to make a strong written case for why your institution should grant you tenure. Two of the most important components of the tenure package are the CV and the narrative (personal statement). Ask recently tenured colleagues at your institution and other peer institutions for copies of their CVs and narratives. These can serve as useful examples as you prepare your own tenure package.

The following pages contain advice on the nuts & bolts of preparing your CV and your narrative. These pages are structured to give you concrete steps to be your own best advocate as you prepare your tenure package. Note that each institution and department will have its own specific tenure package requirements so it is imperative that you inform yourself of the tenure process and expectations at your own institution and use them as your primary guide.