Title Change to Distinguished
Q. What is the significance of the “Distinguished” prefix?
A. The Distinguished prefix is not part of a typical title prefix review
for academic staff in Category A or B, but may be awarded to acknowledge the reputation
and expertise of academic staff who have gained widespread recognition of others
in their profession.
Q. Who initiates the process for title review?
A. You initiate the request for your own title prefix review to the
Distinguished level by submitting the required materials to the Secretary
of the Academic Staff by December 1. (For more information on the Secretary
of the Academic Staff, go to http://www.uwex.edu/secretary/.)
Q. What criteria will be used to review my
title prefix review request to Distinguished?
A. It is expected that you will have demonstrated a history of
contributions and recognition in the following areas:
- Innovative techniques, methods, or skills with no expert guidance,
as well as the ability to cope independently with new, unexpected,
or complex situations.
- Reputation of excellence with your professional peers outside of
UW-Extension and the UW-System.
- Reputation of excellence as a teacher or trainer, such as mentoring,
sharing expertise, and instructing others in the profession or serving
as a resource for peers in the profession for solving complex problems
or issues.
- Distinguished history of professional publications or creative works.
- Significant service to UW-Extension, UW-System, or the community.
- History of progressively responsible professional experience in your
field.
Q. What are the required materials for title prefix review
to Distinguished?
A. A complete packet for Category A title prefix review from “Senior” to “Distinguished” includes ten sets
of the following materials:
- A narrative addressing how you have met criteria for the Distinguished
prefix.
- A detailed professional résumé describing your work
experience and history.
- A current job description approved by your immediate supervisor.
- Photocopies of testimonials and awards.
- Letters of support from your immediate supervisor, department head,
and Cooperative Extension Dean.
- Three letters of support from outside UW-Extension attesting to your
professional qualifications and competence.
- Other concise supporting documents or mediated material.
Q. How long will the review process take?
A. The complete process will take several months to complete. By
January 1, the Secretary of the Academic Staff will forward your materials
to the Institutional Review Committee, whose recommendations will be
submitted to the Chancellor by February 15. You will find out the Chancellor’s
decision in writing by March 15. If approved, your request would be
effective July 1.
Q. What is the role of the Institutional
Review Committee?
A. This is a nine-member group made up of peers from all UW-Extension divisions that will review your title prefix review request to Distinguished and forward its recommendation to the Chancellor.
The Chancellor will review the recommendations as well as all other supporting
materials and make a decision.
Q. Where can I find out more information?
A. UWEX
Unclassified Personnel Guideline #18 lists guidelines for the "Senior" to "Distinguished" title review (
 http://www.uwex.edu/secretary/policies/section7/upg18.pdf).
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