The University Council adopted a tenure probationary period policy at its Wednesday meeting, allowing faculty to ask for a one-year postponement of their tenure review.

The policy gives faculty the option, upon University Council approval, for benefits under the Family and Medical Leave Act. The temporary postponement also can be approved if the faculty member is seriously ill, has a family member who is seriously ill or has certain other medical conditions, as outlined in NIU’s family illness leave policy.

Carole Minor, chair of the rules and governance committee, said many other colleges and universities have similar policies.

“This type of policy is a standard for many other universities,” said Michael Kolb, an associate anthropology professor.

Many faculty members are happy about the policy being adopted, including accountancy professor Sally Webber.

“I’m glad the university finally got around to passing a policy like this,” Webber said.

NIU President John Peters also announced the approval of the Board of Trustees’ purchase of the Monsanto property for $6 million. NIU will pay $4 million to buy the Monsanto site and $2 million for included equipment and supplies. NIU will pay for the Monsanto property purchase through bank financing or revenue bonds.

NIU will receive $8.4 million in federal funds to remodel the property, with the current equipment and supplies included in those funds. Phone systems, video systems, orthopedic chairs and office furniture are among the supplies NIU will receive.

The property will be turned into the NIU Family Health, Wellness and Literacy Center. The site will be located at Route 23 and Bethany Road between DeKalb and Sycamore.