Professional development at CNC is central to fostering excellence in teaching and learning. By offering resources that support growth, recognition, and advancement, we create an environment where educators can flourish both professionally and personally. Through initiatives like funding opportunities, mentorship, and career advancement tools, we empower faculty to refine their skills, celebrate their successes, and contribute meaningfully to the academic community. 

From documenting achievements to engaging in the scholarship of teaching and learning, our resources are designed to inspire and elevate teaching practices. Faculty can explore opportunities for growth, connect with mentors, and access peer support to enhance their teaching. Together, these initiatives promote a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence, ensuring that both educators and students thrive in an inclusive and dynamic learning environment. 

Funding 

All PD Funds are intended to support faculty employees in activities that enhance present skills and knowledge, adapt to new work methods, prepare for career advancements within the College, as well as any other activities acceptable to the Professional Development Committee (PDC). Faculty employees are responsible for identifying and acting upon their own professional development needs. 

Faculty can apply for funding to support individual professional development activities such as attending courses, workshops, or conferences. The 0.6% (Common Fund) covers activities like tuition for degrees or certifications, while the 0.8% (Local Fund) supports shorter-term activities like conferences or workshops.

Approved group applications for professional development activities, such as seminars or workshops, are reimbursed up to 100% of costs. Group activities foster collaboration within or across campus communities and require a designated contact person to manage the application and reporting process.

Tuition exemptions are available for spouses, dependent children, and faculty employees taking CNC courses. Applications must be submitted to Human Resources within the specified timelines to guarantee exemption.

Excellence & Advancement 

Recognizing faculty accomplishments is key to creating a culture of achievement and pride within the academic community. Resources are available to support faculty in showcasing their successes, from seeking external awards to highlighting their research and teaching innovations through publications and presentations. 

Resources and consultations are available to help faculty document their professional growth, accomplishments, and reflective teaching practices. Teaching portfolios and dossiers can be tailored for self-promotion, career advancement, or external opportunities.

Faculty achievements in research and pedagogy can be showcased through publications and conference presentations. Assistance is available to help faculty prepare conference submissions and navigate publication processes.

Faculty can nominate themselves and others for external awards of excellence in teaching, research, and service. Resources are available to help faculty who are interested in pursuing awards and nominating others.

Growth & Scholarship 

Supporting faculty growth, both professionally and personally, is fundamental to fostering excellence in teaching and learning. Opportunities and resources are available to help faculty document their achievements, engage in reflective practices, and continue growing as educators. 

Explore innovative teaching practices, improve student outcomes, and contribute to educational research through SoTL initiatives. Faculty are encouraged to share findings with both internal and external audiences to build knowledge and foster collaboration.

Create personalized development plans that align with your teaching goals and institutional priorities. These plans provide a roadmap for growth and allow faculty to track their achievements, set goals for future development, and reflect on progress.

Faculty can use self-reflection tools, such as teaching journals or video recordings of their sessions, to critically assess their teaching practices. These resources help identify strengths, areas for improvement, and strategies for enhancing student engagement.

Next Steps

Dig Deeper

Browse the Professional Development Resources folder in SharePoint for more in-depth tools and information on mentorship opportunities, peer observations, and exploring the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) to enhance your teaching practice.

Read About It

Read the CTL Blog posts on Professional Development for personal insights and responses from the CTL team on this important topic impacting education.

Request Help

Need tailored support? Schedule a one-on-one consultation with a CTL member to discuss your teaching practice and receive personalized advice.

Faculty Development