Dear Faculty and Staff —
The week began with reviewing the process for proposals developed for the Strategic Investment Fund. There was also a discussion of external grant opportunities, including funding available from Title III (Strengthening Institutions Program) to build this University’s capacity for targeted student retention. Additionally, the position description for the Director of the Center for Lincoln Studies is being reviewed and when finished, the Search Committee will be convened again to engage in a national search. And finally, please note that The Consortium for Academic Research Libraries in Illinois (CARLI) has offered a third round of grant funding with a potential award of $75,000 to support the creation of Open Educational Resources (OER). Courses may be in any subject area but must have either high traditional textbook costs, large enrollment, or be offered every year or several times a year. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Feb. 28, and the related website can be found here. This is another opportunity to build upon our institution’s teaching effectiveness.
Please note that I am hosting a Provost’s reception for Academic Affairs faculty and staff from 3 to 5 p.m. on Friday, February 10. Please respond to the invitation from Monica Kroft and follow the RSVP instructions to assist us in planning. The purpose of this reception is to meet and greet Academic Affairs faculty and staff colleagues and socially engage with each other. I may make brief remarks around 3:45. I hope you can join your colleagues from across the division for munchies, libations, and fellowship on February 10.
Issues that received considerable attention this week included: staffing requests and open faculty positions; assessment; course caps; institutional grants and needed support services; allied health programs; growing fiscal limits; and teaching effectiveness.
The formal Investiture ceremony for Chancellor Gooch is set for 2 p.m. Wednesday, February 8 in Sangamon Auditorium. While I recognize that everyone is busy, this is a rare occasion to celebrate new University leadership. Your presence is requested to acknowledge the ceremony’s academic and historic nature. Please RSVP as soon as possible if you have not already done so. Our academic robes symbolize our educational heritage and celebrate the University’s continuation.
The Chairs’ Leadership Institute was held for two days in the Student Union with my invitation to make opening remarks. I spoke about the Chairs’ role in improving teaching effectiveness, and the need to marshal student and faculty engagement for every classroom and university encounter as one vital key in improving student retention.
Finally, the consultant’s faculty salary compression study has been completed and will be provided to collective bargaining colleagues shortly followed by a campus presentation.
Thank you,
Linda
Linda M. Delene, PhD
Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA) and Provost
University of Illinois Springfield
OPEN OFFICE HOURS:
SLB Room 104
2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday, February 14, 2023