As citizens, faculty members are free to engage in political activities. Any member of the faculty who wishes to engage in direct political activity (e.g. holding or running for political office, managing a campaign, directing group action on behalf of a political candidate or issue) which may interfere with University responsibilities will work out a mutual agreement for leave of absence with the dean and the Vice President for Academic Affairs before undertaking such activity. Terms of such leave of absence will be set forth in writing, and the leave will not affect the tenure status of a faculty member, except that time spent on such leave will not count as probationary service unless otherwise agreed to. (See also Section 1.9.12. for policies related to political activity of faculty.)