Policy on the Nomination and Appointment of “Principal Emerit”

Final Approval Body: Board of Trustees
Senior Administrative Position with Responsibility for Policy: University Secretariat
Date Initially Approved: 1957
Date of Last Revision, if applicable: 2024

DEFINITIONS

Emeritus, Emerita, Emerit: Honorary titles recognizing exemplary service, accomplishments, and contributions, as well as long service, to Queen’s University. The honorary designation does not include rights or privileges, except those conferred in this policy by the Board of Trustees. The beneficiary may select which of the three titles they prefer to use upon conferral of the title, with emeritus, emerita, and emerit being the traditional male, female, and gender-neutral selections, respectively.

I-EDIAA: Indigenization, equity, diversity, inclusion, accessibility and anti-racism.

PURPOSE OF POLICY

This policy sets out criteria for the designation of “Principal Emerit” by the Board of Trustees of Queen’s University.

SCOPE OF PROPOSED POLICY

The Policy applies to individuals who have occupied the role of principal and vice-chancellor at Queen’s University, but are no longer serving in the position.

POLICY STATEMENT

The designation of “Principal Emerit” shall solely be an honorary designation, considered and conferred in the absolute and unfettered discretion of the Board of Trustees, and shall not otherwise be conferred. The criteria for designation may include service on behalf of Queen’s community, outstanding leadership, academic and research credibility and rigor, exemplary contributions to building a more inclusive and equitable campus, and contributing to reconciliation with Indigenous communities and individuals.

In the event that the Governance and Nominating Committee recommends to the Board of Trustees that conferring the honorary designation of “Principal Emerit” is appropriate in the circumstances, the Chair of the Governance and Nominating Committee will convey such recommendation on behalf of the Committee to the Chair of the Board of Trustees for consideration by the Board of Trustees.

Revocation of the Title
The Board of Trustees has the right to revoke the designation of “Principal Emerit” if, at its sole discretion, it determines that the individual so named does not maintain the
expected standards for the designation.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Board of Trustees: The Board is responsible for carefully considering the recommendation of the Governance and Nominating Committee as provided regarding the principal’s contributions and service.

Governance and Nominating Committee: The Committee is responsible for carefully and thoughtfully assessing an individual’s candidacy and submitting recommendations to the Board of Trustees. The submission shall include information on the individual’s contributions and service.

Related Policies, Procedures, Guidelines: n/a
Policies Superseded by this Policy: n/a
Responsible Office: University Secretariat
Contact: University Secretary
Date for Next Review: 2028