(a) The term plan shall mean the group disability insurance program of the State University of New York.

(b) The term employee shall mean any person holding appointment in a position in the professional service as defined in subdivision (3) of section 355-a of the Education Law.

(c) The term employment shall mean working regularly throughout the duration of the period of the employee's professional obligation, at any location of the university or at such other location required in the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities, and where such employment is the principal source of the employee's wages, earning or salary.

(d) The term university shall mean the State University of New York.

(e) The term coverage shall mean the participation in the plan by covered employees and the term covered employee shall mean an eligible employee participating in the plan.

(f) The term insurer shall mean the insurance company selected by the board of trustees of State University of New York by resolution to underwrite the plan.

(g) The term service shall mean employment with the university as an employee or otherwise.

(h) The term calendar year employee shall mean any employee having a 12-month professional obligation.

(i) The term academic year employee shall mean any employee other than a calendar year employee.

(j) The term basic salary shall mean the annual salary, exclusive of any supplemental salary received or other forms of additional compensation, as of the date of disability. In the event a covered employee is participating in the special annuity program of the university pursuant to article 8-C of the Education Law, the basic salary shall be the salary of such employee without regard to any reduction in effect at the time of disability.