It is not a new concept and it is increasingly taking place across the academic world.
Faculty members across North America are removing themselves from certain parts of their job to disengage from the institution because things are just not what they used to be.
University of Guelph biology professor Ryan Gregory’s resignation from the board of governors is just another example of disengagement in the academic community.
Gregory announced his resignation from the board of governors Tuesday morning on Twitter.
“This is one more example of disengagement, along with multiple early retirements, resignations, and departures,” tweeted Gregory adding that his focus will be on his research, teaching as well as equity, diversity and inclusion projects he feels passionate about.
I have resigned from the Board of Governors at the University of Guelph. This is one more example of disengagement, along with multiple early retirements, resignations, and departures. My focus will be on my own research and teaching, as well as EDI projects I'm passionate about.
— T. Ryan Gregory (@TRyanGregory) February 22, 2022
Gregory was also supportive of U of G professor Daniel Gillis’s decision to step down from the senate earlier this month.
The U of G Board of Governors includes a chancellor, the university president, four members appointed by the lieutenant governor in council and up to 18 other members that include faculty and students.
While he didn’t specifically state that he is disengaging with the university, he withdrew from parts of his job.
“I can no longer spend my energy or time supporting the University of Guelph senate. Based on my experiences, safety and inclusion are non-negotiable values for me. And for me, at this time, senate does not meet these values,” wrote Gillis in his post.
Gregory showed support for Gillis saying his resignation is the institution’s loss and just another example of equity, diversity and inclusion statements being performative and there being “no action when it comes down to living up to it.”
“This administration will pass, and we will demand better next time around,” his tweet in response to the article added.
