Interview with A. D. Albright, August 22, 1989

Interview Summary

In this interview, A.D. Albright discusses tenure issues that arose in the 1970s at Kentucky's universities. He states that when funding was low, the university gave increases in title and rank rather than increases in salaries. In addition to this, the regional universities in Kentucky grew at such a rapid pace that they hired many new faculty members at one time, who were then in line for tenure at the same time. Albright states that the issue was particularly harsh at Murray State University, but explains that the University of Kentucky was able to avoid much of the controversy because they had traditionally emphasized the importance of research and publication for their faculty members. The regional universities, though, had traditionally emphasized good teaching and public service as requirements for tenure. Albright also mentions lawsuits that occurred as a result of those tenure issues and the involvement of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP).

Albright describes some of his experiences working for the Council of Higher Education. He mentions Barney Tucker and criticism of both the staff and budget of the council. He discusses duplication of similar academic programs throughout Kentucky and the need for universities to focus on specific programs and bolster those programs. He explains how he would pick five programs the University of Kentucky should focus on improving.

Interview LC Subject

Albright, A. D. (Arnold De Wald) Albright, A. D. (Arnold De Wald)--Interviews Murray State University University of Kentucky University of Kentucky--History

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