Introducing the Collegial Process Support Series: Navigating Academic Leadership Together

Are you a department head, assistant dean, or associate dean looking for a platform to connect, share experiences, and gather valuable insights from fellow leaders in academia? The Faculty Relations team is excited to introduce the Collegial Process Support Series, a monthly gathering designed to foster networking, provide advice, and cultivate a strong community of academic leaders responsible for steering the collegial process.

What to Expect

Join us once a month as department heads and assistant/associate deans from diverse departments across campus come together to engage in an enriching exchange of ideas. From sharing anecdotes to offering practical advice—and finding solace in shared challenges—these sessions are a unique opportunity to learn, laugh, and connect with peers who understand the intricacies of academic leadership.

Session Format

Each meeting will feature a concise presentation and an open discussion on a timely topic, facilitated by experienced members of our group. This will be followed by an insightful conversation on best practices, common hurdles, and unconventional cases, all while enjoying refreshments in a relaxed setting.

Details of the First Event on September 6

We kick off the series with a focus on “Tenure and Promotion: Adjudicating Files.” Join us on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, from 3 pm to 4:30 pm in Convocation Hall (PMB 120). Our esteemed facilitators for this session are Dr. Terry Wotherspoon (PhD), from the Department of Sociology, College of Arts and Science, and Dr. Alec Aitken (PhD), from the Department of Geography and Planning, College of Arts and Science.

Schedule of Topics for 2023/24

We have an exciting lineup of topics planned for the upcoming academic year. From merit evaluations to conflict-resolution strategies, each session is tailored to address the multifaceted challenges faced by academic leaders.

  • September 6: Tenure and Promotion: Adjudicating Files
  • October 10: Merit (Special Salary Increases)
  • November 2: Recruitment and Search Committees
  • December 6: Assignment of Duties
  • January 3: Request to Hire and Form A
  • February 7: Managing Student Academic Misconduct
  • March 7: Managing Sessionals and Terms
  • April 3: Conflict in the Department: Strategies and Resources
  • May 8: Advising for Tenure and Promotion, Selecting External Referees
  • June 6: Topic of Choice from Attendees

We also encourage suggestions for additional topics, which could include managing workplace accommodations, enhancing peer evaluation of teaching, and exploring diverse models for assessing research productivity.

For inquiries and to RSVP, please email larissa.wudrick@usask.ca.