B. Leave of Absence

In response to a request from a faculty member, the provost may grant a leave of absence without pay for a period not to exceed two years. Requests for such leaves of absence must be filed with the provost at least sixty (60) days prior to the first day of the leave. The leave of absence will not affect the faculty member's eligibility for tenure, promotion in rank, or contract renewal, but the period of the leave will not count as time served toward tenure. Unpaid leaves of absence may be granted for the following reasons: faculty exchange, advanced study, scholarship/research or creative endeavor, public service, or personal hardship.