If you’re a professor or academic professional looking to secure tenure and/or promotion, a letter of intent is a crucial part of the process. This document provides an overview of your accomplishments, outlines your goals, and demonstrates your commitment to your institution. To help you get started, we’ve put together a collection of sample letters of intent for tenure and promotion. You can use these examples as a starting point and customize them to fit your needs.
Example 1: Demonstrating Teaching Excellence
Dear [Dean’s Name],
I am excited to submit my letter of intent for tenure and promotion. Over the past six years at [Institution], I have worked tirelessly to establish myself as an outstanding teacher and scholar. I have developed and taught eight different courses, received consistently high evaluations from students, and mentored several undergraduate and graduate students who have gone on to successful academic careers.
My research focuses on the intersection of [Field] and [Field], and I have published several articles in top-tier journals in my field. In addition, I have presented at multiple national and international conferences, and I am frequently invited to speak at other institutions.
I am deeply committed to [Institution] and its mission. I have served on numerous committees, including the Faculty Senate and the Curriculum Committee, and I have been involved in several community outreach initiatives. I am excited to continue my work here and contribute to the growth and success of our institution.
Thank you for considering my application for tenure and promotion.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Strong Letter of Intent
Here are some tips to keep in mind as you craft your letter of intent for tenure and promotion:
- Be specific about your accomplishments and goals. Use concrete examples to highlight your teaching, research, and service contributions.
- Emphasize your commitment to your institution. Show that you are invested in its mission and values.
- Keep your tone professional and courteous. Avoid using overly casual language or making negative comments about colleagues or the institution.
- Proofread your letter carefully. Make sure there are no typos or grammatical errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in my letter of intent?
Your letter of intent should provide an overview of your accomplishments, goals, and commitment to your institution. It should highlight your teaching, research, and service contributions, and demonstrate your fit with the institution’s mission and values.
How long should my letter of intent be?
Your letter of intent should be between two and three pages long. It should be long enough to provide a comprehensive overview of your contributions, but not so long that it becomes tedious or repetitive.
Should I include letters of recommendation with my letter of intent?
It depends on the requirements of your institution. Some institutions require letters of recommendation as part of the tenure and promotion process, while others do not. Check with your department chair or dean to see if letters of recommendation are required.
What should I do if I don’t have a lot of publications or presentations?
Focus on other aspects of your record, such as your teaching or service contributions. You can also highlight any work in progress or other scholarly activities that demonstrate your potential for future success.
How should I address my letter of intent?
You should address your letter of intent to the appropriate administrator, such as the dean or department chair. If you are unsure who to address your letter to, check with your department’s administrative assistant.
When should I submit my letter of intent?
Check with your institution for specific deadlines. In general, you should plan to submit your letter of intent at least a year before you are eligible for tenure or promotion.
Conclusion
A letter of intent is a critical part of the tenure and promotion process. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can create a strong and compelling document that highlights your accomplishments and demonstrates your commitment to your institution. Good luck!