Step beyond the classroom and into a realm of senior leadership with the 2024 Presidential Faculty Fellow Program at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Established by the Office of the President in 2020, this unique initiative offers faculty members a remarkable chance to dive into presidential-level operations while refining vital leadership, communication and strategic skills.
Open to all full-time faculty members at MSU Denver, the Presidential Faculty Fellow Program offers an unparalleled professional-development experience. The Presidential Faculty Fellow becomes an integral part of the Office of the President, immersing themself in daily tasks and projects that mold the University’s strategic path. This initiative also strives to enhance shared governance by nurturing a deeper understanding of presidential and senior-leadership responsibilities among faculty members. By actively engaging with the senior-leadership team, Faculty Fellows gain insight into the complexities of University administration. This knowledge can then be shared among faculty members, cultivating an atmosphere of informed collaboration and decision-making.
“This is an amazing experience that has allowed access to senior-level leadership and a chance to bring a faculty voice into conversations with President Davidson and other senior leaders across campus,” said Faculty Fellow Graham Stefan Ignizio, Ph.D., referring to President Janine Davidson, Ph.D. “If faculty advocacy and/or University administration are of interest to you, this is a fantastic opportunity for professional development and service.”
As a Presidential Faculty Fellow, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the University’s strategic vision. Your faculty perspective becomes an asset as you offer advice and support directly to the president. This program ensures that diverse viewpoints are considered in shaping the University’s policies and initiatives.
Tasks and responsibilities
Your responsibilities as a Faculty Fellow will be diverse and holistic, reflecting the multifaceted nature of University leadership. Reporting to the chief of staff, you’ll engage in tasks such as:
- Budget issues: Dive into financial matters and resource allocation to support various University initiatives.
- Inclusive decision-making and special projects: Participate in decision-making processes that champion inclusivity and equity while contributing to projects that shape the University’s future.
- External-stakeholder engagement: Coordinate activities involving external stakeholders, from trustees to legislative affairs, fundraising and external relations.
- Effective communication: Establish clear communication channels between the Office of the President and University departments, students and community.
The selected Faculty Fellow will dedicate a full year (including the summer) to the program, working within the Office of the President for the duration of 2024. During this period, the participant will receive 15 hours of reassigned time for each of the spring and fall semesters, allowing them to fully engage in the program without the demands of regular teaching or service-related activities. In addition, a stipend will be provided to cover summer work.
Eligibility is open to Category I or Category II faculty members of any rank: assistant professor, associate professor, full professor, lecturer or senior lecturer.
Ready to embark on this transformative journey? Contact Ignizio for more information.