Faculty and staff make UHart’s distinctive educational experience possible. These resources are here to support your work, deepen your impact, and empower your continued growth.
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Professional Development Wednesdays
As part of our ongoing commitment to reimagining excellence and strengthening campus culture, the second Wednesday of each month is set aside for faculty and staff development. From 12:45 to 2 p.m., no meetings are scheduled—this time is reserved for your professional growth.
Each month, you’ll have the flexibility to choose how you engage. We encourage you to take part in any of the University-sponsored sessions, designed to spark learning, build community, and support your goals. Space is limited, so be sure to register early!
April 8–Session Schedule
Time: 12:45–2 p.m. | Location: CTEI Lower Level Library
This session explores what a regulated, trauma‑informed teaching approach can look like in undergraduate and graduate classrooms. We will examine how the mind–body connection can affect learning through a trauma‑informed lens, considering both instructor and student perspectives.
Faculty will gain greater awareness of the physiological and psychological responses that may show up in everyday classroom interactions and how these responses can shape learning, engagement, and relationships. A key focus will be on fostering co‑regulation—supportive, responsive interactions between instructors and students, as well as among students themselves. Participants will leave with practical applicable strategies to promote regulation, support student well‑being, and enhance learning across diverse classroom contexts.
Questions? Contact Lisa Zawilinski
*This event is limited to 25 registrations
Time: 12:45–2 p.m. | Location: Dana 318
AI has moved beyond being a trendy term and is now a common presence in higher education. Rather than concentrating on ways to block or restrict it, the current question is how we can effectively utilize this technology to enhance education.
This is the central focus of "Beyond Chatbots: A Practical Guide to AI in the Classroom." This interactive, hands-on workshop is tailored for educators eager to overcome their initial apprehensions and explore the potential of AI in educational settings. Consider this session as a chance to perceive AI not as a monitor but as a genuine collaborator. We will demonstrate how AI can alleviate administrative tasks, foster stronger connections with students, and lighten the workload.
In just 75 minutes, we will clarify any confusion surrounding AI and offer practical tools that can be used immediately. You will discover how to create assignments that integrate AI (rather than oppose it), how to develop clear syllabi that leave no room for misunderstanding, and how to swiftly generate everything from analogies to grading rubrics using AI. Whether you are new to AI or already familiar with it, you will leave with a practical strategy to turn AI from a classroom challenge into a tool that enhances both productivity and learning.
Questions? Contact Lisa Zawilinski
*This event is limited to 25 registrations
Time: 12:45–2 p.m. | Location: KF Room
Student AI use is pervasive, often secret, and creating an exhausting "us vs. them" dynamic. We've been here before-calculators, Wikipedia, Google. The technology changes but the anxiety doesn’t. But here's what's different: Who had access to tutors, office hours, and writing support before AI? Students with money and time. AI is free and available 24/7. What if it’s actually democratizing?
This workshop moves us from surveillance to partnership. Through real scenarios and practical redesign work, we'll examine our assumptions, explore equity implications, and shift one practice from power-over to power-with. No AI expertise required—just curiosity and willingness to rethink our approach. Bring one assignment or policy you're wrestling with. Leave with something concrete to try.
Questions? Contact Lisa Zawilinski
*This event is limited to 25 registrations
Time: 12:45–2 p.m. | Location: Barney Classrooms:
A 322, A 323, A423
"Around the gathering table, every closed heart can be opened." – Jonathan Maberry
The concept of the gathering table is used as a metaphor to promote shared experiences, strengthen relationships, and support meaningful collaboration. It represents a space where individuals are welcomed, voices are valued, and learning and care are fostered. Through this shared environment, the gathering table helps embed a sense of safety, belonging, and mutual responsibility into the culture. Using an appreciative inquiry framework, students developed thoughtful questions and conducted interviews with faculty and peers across the Barney community. They then analyzed the data, synthesized key findings, and offered recommendations to deepen understanding of the 'gathering table' as a shared cultural practice. These recommendations provide a constructive framework for strengthening connection, belonging, and collaboration as the Barney community builds back better.
Questions? Contact Annette Rogers
*This event is limited to 85 registrations
Time: 12:45–2 p.m. | Location: Shaw Center
Where does the AAUP fit in at UHart? What can the AAUP do for faculty? What can faculty do for the AAUP? Join us to find out! We will present and discuss: (i) the benefits of the AAUP's new affiliation with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), AFL-CIO, ranging from shopping discounts to insurance plans to community engagement, organizing, and political activism about state and national level issues in higher education; (ii) AAUP’s work in defending academic freedom, advancing shared governance, and defining fundamental professional values and standards; and (iii) examples of ways to engage with the local and state chapters of AAUP.
Questions? Contact Jennifer McLeer
*This event is limited to 50 registrations
Time: 12:45–2 p.m. | Location: GSU 339
April is recognized nationally as Financial Literacy Month, a time dedicated to empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to build strong financial futures. As part of this initiative, Nutmeg State Financial Credit Union is helping participants walk away feeling more prepared, more confident, and more supported in their financial journey.
This session will cover the foundations of financial wellness, budgeting for real life, credit confidence, managing debt wisely, and financial safety nets.
*This event is limited to 20 registrations
Time: 12:45–2 p.m. | Location: UT 308
Discover the full value of your UHart employment package in this informative session focused on the many benefits that extend beyond traditional medical, dental, and life insurance. We’ll explore a wide range of programs, perks, and exclusive discounts that you may not know are available to you—from wellness resources and financial tools to campus privileges and community partnerships. Join us to learn how to make the most of everything UHart has to offer!
Questions? Contact Tina Berrien
*This event is limited to 20 registrations
Would you like to offer training to the community or have an idea for a future developmental opportunity? Provide your feedback here.