With the start of the new academic semester fast approaching, more than 70 new faculty members gathered at Augusta University for the New Faculty Conference, aptly titled “Engage.” This two-day event took place at the Grover T. Maxwell Performing Arts Center, marking the beginning of their professional journeys at the university.
Organized by Augusta University's Faculty Affairs, the conference was revamped to better support its attendees. According to Dr. Karen Head, the associate provost for Faculty Affairs, the format provides three focused tracks: instructional, research, and clinical.
Dr. Head emphasized the primary goal of the conference: equipping new faculty with relevant resources to thrive at Augusta University. "Our aim was to provide the most relevant resources to help our new faculty launch their careers at AU with confidence," she said.
Among the new hires is Elizabeth Wakefield, who shared her excitement about smaller class sizes and substantial growth within her department, which contributed to her decision to join AU. "Seeing such growth means there’s potential for longevity with the institution, which excites me," she noted.
The conference included presentations by faculty, staff, and students, covering topics ranging from AU's Strategic Plan to panel discussions on faculty professional development. This comprehensive approach aimed to energize the new cohort and integrate them fully within the AU community.
Asia Thomas-Uzomba, another new faculty member, expressed her eagerness to embrace her role as an assistant professor of curriculum studies. Previously working as a public school teacher, she’s thrilled about interacting with students to learn about their passions.
Jingsi Teng, who specializes in environmental ethics, shared her enthusiasm for joining the AU community after relocating from Tennessee. "With AU’s specialty in bioethics, this will be a great opportunity for collaboration in the future," she remarked.
One of the standout sessions covered the use of generative artificial intelligence for course design, providing practical insights for faculty. Led by experts from the Center for Instructional Innovation, this tutorial highlighted how tools like ChatGPT could aid faculty members in refining course materials.
Zach Kelehear, the vice provost for Instruction and Innovation, conveyed his excitement welcoming the new faculty. "My hope is to see this group start their careers engaged and ready to guide our students to success,” he said.
The Faculty Orientation and Onboarding processes are equally critical at universities worldwide, serving as platforms to empower new hires. For example, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) recently dedicated August to celebrating female leaders during Women’s Month.
At UJ, the contributions of prominent women like Professor Sehaam Khan and Professor Sarah Gravett were highlighted. These leaders played instrumental roles as part of the university’s Management Executive Committee, emphasizing their commitment to positively impacting the university community.
Professor Khan reflected on her organic leadership ascent, from lecturer to Deputy Vice-Chancellor. "To make a more meaningful impact within my department, I became the Head of the Department. I didn’t hesitate to become the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic since it allows me to work with amazing people to influence student success," she shared.
Professor Gravett, who has made significant impacts on teacher education, recounted how she was encouraged by colleagues to step up for leadership opportunities. Initially hesitant, she eventually embraced the role of Dean, directed at enhancing community service through education.
She noted, "It's about serving others and helping them achieve their academic goals—it’s not just about having the title." Her experiences showed the importance of being open to learning, reflecting, and evolving continuously.
Other notable figures like Professor Bettine van Vuuren, the university’s registrar, have made strides for women leaders at UJ. With significant contributions to genetic research and academic administration, she emphasized the need for strong support networks and emphasized mentoring younger women.
Ms. Nolwazi Mamorare, the Chief Financial Officer, shared her insights on the challenges of maintaining financial stability at such a large institution. "It requires not only careful planning but also the ability to respond to changing economic conditions," she asserted.
These leaders demonstrate resilience, continually striving to promote environments where innovation and creativity are encouraged. They embody the notion of breaking down barriers and opening doors for future generations.
Women’s Month serves as not only a time to celebrate achievements but also to look forward to the future. Progress, as underscored by these women, indicates growing availability of leadership opportunities for females within academia.
Both Augusta University and the University of Johannesburg exemplify efforts to support and orient new faculty through structured programs and inspiring leadership. These initiatives create pathways for growth, promising not only to benefit their respective communities but also set trends across educational institutions.
Universities play pivotal roles by investing in their faculty and fostering environments rich with resources and support. The results can significantly impact the student experience and academia overall, steering the future direction of education.
By continually engaging new faculty through conferences and targeted orientation sessions, institutions like AU and UJ highlight the importance of foundational support systems. Empowered faculty mean empowered students, which can lead to transformative educational experiences.
Through these orientations, new faculty members are not only welcomed but equipped with tools to thrive. Having such support is invaluable for the latest generation of educators stepping onto campuses eager to make their mark.
Thus, as new faculty enter the academic world at institutions like AU and UJ, they do so with the excitement of fresh beginnings and the assurance of measured support. This exemplary approach to orientation and onboarding not only helps establish their careers but also enhances the university experience for all involved.
