Spring 2020 Faculty Success Program (FSP) Sponsorships
In 2018, The University of Texas at Austin became an institutional member of the National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity (NCFDD). The NCFDD is a nationally-recognized independent organization dedicated to supporting faculty, particularly under-represented faculty, post-docs, and graduate students in making successful transitions throughout their careers.
NCFDD’s signature program is the Faculty Success Program. This program is an intensive, 12-week virtual bootcamp where academics work directly with a coach and small peer group to implement the skills and strategies taught in the core curriculum. The Faculty Success Program is intended for tenure-track and tenured faculty members.
The Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost provides funding assistance for participation in the Faculty Success Program on a matching fund basis to tenure-track faculty members who contribute to inclusiveness, equity, and diversity in their department and/or college/school.
Jakki Bailey, Assistant Professor, School of Information
“The FSP was a phenomenal experience. It changed how I approached writing and research amidst the many responsibilities of being a faculty member. In addition, I made great connections with other faculty across the country. The skills and approaches I learned through the program have provided me with the tools to be a successful scholar and to maintain a happy, healthy life.”
BiographyAlex Beasley, Assistant Professor, Department of American Studies
“The FSP was incredibly helpful. There are best practices that I was aware of and “should” have been following for years (i.e., a daily writing practice, setting clear benchmarks and achievable goals, realistic long-term planning), but I was never able to implement them successfully before FSP. I was matched with a small group that provided a space not only to work through making plans and creating habits, but also to discuss inequality and the unique challenges of diverse faculty in the academy. This program has absolutely helped to set me on the right path to work toward tenure at UT.”
BiographyJennifer McClearen, Assistant Professor, Department of Radio-Television-Film
“I was familiar with the quality of content of other NCFDD’s programs, but what I hadn’t anticipated is how the additional structure in the FSP would greatly benefit my productivity! From daily logging of writing time, to weekly calls with my coach and peers, to encouraging but challenging webinars, to homework that really pushed me to dig deep into my personal roadblocks – each component worked together to ensure I was bringing my best each week. As a result, I submitted the final draft of my book manuscript to the press at the end of the program! FSP played a vital role in my ability to complete this feat while also adjusting to life in a pandemic.”
BiographyMcKetta Department of Chemical Engineering
“The FSP taught me to prioritize my time, build momentum for writing, and approach my career development more strategically. Toward the end of the program, my research lab shut down due to the spread of COVID-19. Having a weekly plan enabled me to still hit many of my writing goals while adapting to new work from home and childcare situations. I foresee using the FSP tools throughout my tenure process. In addition to writing productivity, FSP tools promote work-life balance and resilience, which are essential to success in these uncertain times!”
Biography