2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

This paper calls attention to disparities in parental leave and workload relief policies for non-tenure-track (NTT) faculty, highlighting the need for the equitable creation of more family-friendly caregiving policies. While tenure-track (TT) faculty are typically guaranteed leave benefits and workload reductions, support for NTT faculty, who now comprise a majority of classroom instructors, is often inconsistent and inadequate, impacting their personal well-being, professional stability, and, ultimately, student learning. This inequity is particularly pronounced for women and gender-nonconforming faculty, who disproportionately bear caregiving responsibilities. Taking a case study approach, this paper examines the current state of parental leave and workload relief policies at [University], where 62% of instructors are NTT faculty. We analyze the existing policies, identify key disparities between TT and NTT faculty, and discuss the challenges of implementing equitable policies across diverse departments, schools, and faculty roles. By addressing these disparities, universities can improve faculty well-being, enhance gender equity, and create a more sustainable and productive academic environment for all.