August 29, 2022
Summary
As we kick off the new academic year and our campus becomes so lively again, I’m delighted to see many faces that I recognize and to welcome our new faculty members. I am energized to get going this year, as I know lots of work happened over the summer to set us up for success. For those who are unfamiliar with the communications cadence from my office, please know that you can expect a weekly message from me on Mondays during the academic year, with the Top 5 Things to Know for the week.
Full Description
As we kick off the new academic year and our campus becomes so lively again, I’m delighted to see many faces that I recognize and to welcome our new faculty members. I am energized to get going this year, as I know lots of work happened over the summer to set us up for success.
For those who are unfamiliar with the communications cadence from my office, please know that you can expect a weekly message from me on Mondays during the academic year, with the Top 5 Things to Know for the week.
I also want to point everyone to wm.edu/coronavirus, the latest online resource on this topic for the W&M community.
Here is the first set of the Top 5 Things to Know:
- The William & Mary fall faculty meeting is set for this Friday, Sept. 2 from 3:30–4:30 p.m. in Tucker 127A. The fall faculty picnic will follow directly afterward in the Wren Yard. I look forward to seeing you there! (For those who cannot attend in person, please feel free to join the meeting by Zoom.)
- W&M Women’s Mentoring (WM2) is looking for women faculty/staff who are willing and able to work with a student during a year-long mentorship. The program will pair you with a student with whom you would meet at least once a month to help them with their personal and professional development. You are welcome to apply, no matter your role, experience or professional interests. As a participant in the program myself, I can assure you that you will find your experience meaningful and rewarding.
- With the upcoming opening of the W&M Washington Center, now is a great time to consider how you can take advantage of our “Campus in the City.” There are many options for faculty to teach in the various Study in D.C. program opportunities. Faculty can learn more at our open Faculty Reception on Sept. 7 in Swem Library from 5-7 p.m. (RSVP). Please also consider showing your students how to participate in our experiential learning internship and academic offerings. They can learn more on the Williamsburg campus on Sept. 8 during Study in D.C. Day. In addition, the Washington Center staff can help you plan classes and events in D.C. at the incredible new space. Please contact Center Director Roxane Adler Hickey with questions.
- W&M Information Technology and the Studio for Teaching & Learning Innovation compiled several resources for faculty in preparation for this academic year, including a helpful list of quick technology tips. While our instruction is in-person, many of the skills and resources we relied on earlier in the Covid-19 pandemic have proven to be extremely valuable. I encourage you to review this list and make the most of the resources available.
- The first shout-out of the academic year goes to the new members of our faculty. I am excited to see the great new insights, research and community you will bring to our campus. If you have any questions as you settle in, please don’t hesitate to reach out. As someone who joined this community just three years ago, I enjoy hearing about your experiences and sharing some recommendations as well.
Finally, I look forward to seeing you at this year’s Opening Convocation on Wednesday, Aug. 31, at 7 p.m. If you are interested in volunteering as an usher at the event, please sign up to provide the events team with your information.
Here’s to a successful academic year, and to all of you who make it possible.
