In order to preserve the employees' employment rights and benefits, all regular employees may be granted a leave of absence for up to one year, but not extending beyond the ending date of the employee's appointment. The employee must have a bonafide intention to return to work. The leave will be approved when the requirements of the department permit. These leaves must be recommended by the department chairperson or administrative head and approved in accordance with policy. Failure to return to work upon expiration of the leave of absence, or when a position becomes available, results in termination of the employee's services.