University of Maryland, College Park Policy on Appointment and Review of Distinguished University Professors

The title "Distinguished University Professor" may be conferred by the President upon a limited number of members of the faculty of the University of Maryland at College Park in recognition of distinguished achievement in teaching; research or creative activities; and service to the University, the profession, and the community. College Park faculty who, at the time of approval of this title, carry the title of Distinguished Professor, will be permitted to retain their present title or to change to the title of Distinguished University Professor. Designation as Distinguished University Professor shall include an annual allocation of funds to support his or her professional activities, to be expended in accordance with applicable University policies.

In general, Distinguished University Professors will have been recognized nationally and usually internationally for the importance of their scholarly and/or creative achievements. They will also have demonstrated the breadth of interest characteristically encompassed by the traditional role of scholar, teacher and public servant. In addition, they will have brought distinction to the University of Maryland as a result of those activities.

Specifically, a Distinguished University Professor will have produced a record of scholarship or creative activities judged by peers to be superior and outstanding, and has had a significant record of contributions to his or her discipline. The Distinguished University Professor will have established an exceptional record of public or academic service exemplified by the application of scholarship and/or creative and artistic endeavors.

The Distinguished University Professor will be one whose achievements have been recognized by the University by award of the rank of Full Professor; rarely will the title be used to recruit new faculty. The title will be held for the duration of the faculty member's affiliation with the University of Maryland at College Park.