New faculty received a warm welcome from the University of Georgia on Aug. 1 during New Faculty Orientation.
“I am pleased that you have joined our extraordinary academic community,” said President Jere W. Morehead. “It is an exciting time to be a part of this institution, and I appreciate everything that our faculty are doing to make our historic achievements possible. In all of the university’s endeavors, faculty play a central role, and you have my deepest respect and gratitude for the outstanding work that you do.”
The event, hosted by the Office of Faculty Affairs, provided an overview of the information, resources and tools available to help faculty succeed at UGA.
“Great faculty like those who are in this room are the core strength of any great university,” said Benjamin C. Ayers, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost. “That’s why when we welcome you to UGA, we want to pour into you so you can help generate great outcomes for our students, this institution and the state of Georgia.”
Held at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education & Hotel, the event provided new faculty members an opportunity to learn about UGA’s excellence in teaching, research and service. For example, new faculty had the opportunity to hear the perspectives of established faculty members. They also heard from a select group of students representing the Student Government Association, School of Public and International Affairs, and Panhellenic Council during the Bulldog Experiences student panel.
New faculty also learned about UGA’s extensive public service and outreach mission, its research priorities, opportunities for further professional development and cultural touchstones of the university. During the UGA Traditions, Legends and Lingo session, Eric Johnson, the director of the UGA Visitors Center, introduced new faculty to cherished UGA symbols such as the Arch and mascot Uga XI, as well as the university’s storied history since its founding in 1785.
“At New Faculty Orientation, our goal is for incoming faculty to have the right tools and resources to be successful in their roles,” said Elizabeth Weeks, interim vice provost for academic affairs and associate provost for faculty affairs. “We hope they leave the day energized and inspired for the start of the classes, the year ahead and their long-term careers here at UGA. We also hope they develop new connections and become familiar with university resources to support them not only in their academic endeavors but as members of our community.”
The orientation also acts as an introduction for Keys to UGA, a series of workshops geared toward incoming faculty but open to all faculty regardless of their time at the institution. Future sessions include topics such as active learning, an introduction to UGA’s learning management system, planning and time management strategies for academic life, utilizing UGA Libraries and mentoring students. \
For more information or to register for Keys to UGA, visit https://provost.uga.edu/faculty-affairs/faculty-leadership-development/new-early-career-faculty/keys-to-uga-new-faculty-academy/.